There’s something about a perfectly lit driveway or garden pathway that just makes a home feel... well, lekker. Whether you're hosting a Saturday braai or coming home late after a long day, having subtle lighting underfoot adds both class and safety. And what better way to achieve that than with LED strip lights installed flush with the ground?
Over the past 16+ years at Future Light, we’ve helped South Africans from big city architects to weekend DIYers light up their outdoor areas beautifully. We’ve seen many clients wanting to illuminate their paving, steps, and pool surrounds with minimal fuss and long-lasting results. So today, I’ll walk you step by step through a local-friendly DIY guide for installing in-ground LED strip lighting like a pro — without breaking the bank, or your back!
Key Takeaways
- Proper planning and measuring are essential before installing in-ground LED strips
- LED strips add ambiance, improve safety, and boost curb appeal for pathways, patios, and pools
- Using the correct LED aluminium extrusion profile ensures clean lines and protects your lighting
- Waterproofing and dustproofing your strips is crucial in the South African climate
- Use LED strip lights designed for outdoor use for optimal life and durability
- A well-installed LED setup means less maintenance and greater enjoyment long-term
1. Planning Your Layout & Design
Measure Twice, Cut Once
Start by taking accurate measurements of the spaces where you want your LED strips. Whether along a driveway edge, under garden stairs, or around a tiled patio, jot everything down. Use chalk or masking tape to outline the strip runs — this helps you visualise wiring paths and lighting effect before you commit.
Visual Zones: Where Light Matters
Think of how you want the space to feel — warm and soft for patios, brighter near steps or slopes for safety. You can mix different intensities or colours with a bit of creativity and planning. South African homeowners often pair warm white lighting with stone walkways to create a cosy, natural effect.
Power Points and Length Limits
Keep in mind that most quality LED strips can run effectively up to 5 metres per power feed. Plan cable routes, power locations and if necessary, factor in repeaters or extra drivers to avoid voltage drop. Extension cabling should be waterproof too — we learn this the hard way every rainy season in Jo’burg!
Proper planning is the difference between a neat install and a frustrating redo. Map it out with tape or chalk before reaching for tools.
2. Choosing the Right Strip & Profile
Outdoor-Rated LED Strips (IP65+)
Since we’re installing these in-ground or flush with tiles, you’ll need an LED strip that’s designed to handle moisture and dust — look for a minimum IP65 rating. Even better if it’s IP67 or IP68 for high-exposure zones like around the pool or garden edging. We’ve had great feedback with our daylight and warm white outdoor LED strip lights — tough and reliable.
Aluminium Profile Channels
These not only neaten your setup, but they also protect the strip from traffic, pets, or the occasional wheelbarrow. Go for a recessed extrusion profile with a frosted diffuser for that seamless finish. Check out our full range of LED extrusion profiles here.
Drivers and Accessories
Don’t forget matching drivers that suit your total LED wattage. If you plan to dim your lighting, ensure your driver is dimmable and compatible with your switch or controller. Need smart controls or motion sensors? Have a squiz through our plugs and switches range to tie everything together perfectly.
Choosing quality, waterproof gear upfront will save you a lot of surprise maintenance headaches come winter rains or midday heatwaves.
3. Preparing The Site
Clear the Area First
Before any digging or cutting, clear your workspace. Sweep grime, leaves and small stones away from where the profile will sit. If you’re working in tiled areas, clean the grooves well so that the adhesive can bond cleanly.
Cut Channels or Trenches
Use a multi-tool or angled grinder to slice channels into tile grout or paving gaps. If working in a flowerbed or lawn edge, a garden spade will work. For concrete, a small chase line is normally fine. Just be patient – no need to rush and crack slabs!
Ensure Drainage and Dry Run
If your area is prone to pooling water, consider adding crushed stone or a thin sand bed under your channel. Do a dry fit of your extrusion and LED strip to make sure it all sits flush before securing anything permanently.
Always double-check depth — your extrusion shouldn't stick up where feet or wheels pass. Everything must be flush!
4. Wiring, Sealing & Mounting
Connecting the Strip to the Driver
If your LED strip has factory connectors, perfect! If not, you can solder or use quick-connect clips. Make sure to heat-shrink every joint. For longer runs, join multiple LED strips via proper waterproof connectors — avoid twisting wires together and taping; that won’t last outdoors.
Secure the Aluminium Channels
Use outdoor-rated adhesive or screws with wall plugs to fix your profile to the ground/chase. Avoid regular glue — Joburg sunlight or Cape Town damp will break it down quickly. Then click the LED strip into place inside the profile and snap on the diffuser lens.
Seal Ends & Exposed Sections
Use silicone sealant or end caps to finish either side of the strip. Some DIYers overlook this step, but in SA’s dusty, rainy climate, keeping moisture and critters out is essential! Cable ties and sleeve tubing can neaten up your wiring where it meets the wall or plug point.
Never underestimate the power of proper sealing. One tiny gap is all it takes to ruin a strip come the summer storms!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need an electrician for in-ground LED strip installation?
A: For 12V/24V DIY kits that plug into a socket, many homeowners safely do it themselves. But if you’re wiring into mains power or need a circuit extender, involve a certified electrician — it's safer and legal.
Q2: How do I avoid overheating my LED strips when installed in confined spaces?
A: Aluminium profiles act as heat sinks, drawing heat away from the strip. Avoid placing strips directly into plastic channels without ventilation, and use frosted lenses to diffuse the light.
Q3: Can in-ground LED strips go around my swimming pool?
A: Yes, but make sure the product is rated IP67 or higher. Also, keep the control gear far from splash zones and use waterproof joins.
Q4: Will garden soil or sand damage outdoor LED strips?
A: Over time, yes — if not sealed. Always use a silicon-sealed profile and clean the surface monthly. Even waterproof lights can corrode without good upkeep.
Q5: What’s the lifespan of outdoor LED strips?
It varies with quality, usage, and weather exposure. Premium outdoor strips on Future Light last around 30,000+ hours with correct installation.
Q6: Can I make the lights change colours?
Yes! RGB and RGBW versions are available, controllable via remote or Wi-Fi app. Check our LED Strip Lights collection for options.
Q7: Are solar options available for in-ground lighting?
Not for continuous strip runs, but we do have solar lights that match the style or supplement the look.
Q8: Do I need an IP-rated driver too?
If your driver goes inside a waterproof box or is under cover, IP ratings aren’t essential. But if exposed, go for at least IP65 to match the strip.
Want to explore hand-picked options for your garden, patio or project? Browse our full LED Strip Lights collection or find the perfect supporting product like this Henry LED Strip. If you’re loving this DIY journey, you’ll also enjoy our guide on transforming your home with LED strip lighting!
