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Many realtors would agree that there are a few interior architectural details that decisively set a tone in a property. Fireplaces and vaulted ceilings are among them. But one of the most striking features in a space is also one of its most functional: the staircase. Just imagine how a sprawling curved staircase conveys a sense of traditional grandeur. Or how an open-tread straight-line staircase with gleaming stainless-steel handrails feels modern and cool. Enhancing this uniquely engineered space in your home or office with a light installation not only showcases its beauty, but also provides improved safety for this heavily trafficked area.
As in many cases, calling in a licensed professional electrician to install your staircase lighting is likely the least stressful option. Being familiar with the right materials and knowing your way around wiring are big plusses here. So, whether you decide to bring in that professional or tackle this project yourself, let’s get a little more acquainted with the details that need to be considered.
Under stair lighting using LED strip lights is a matter of finding the right length and type of tape light you want, wiring it all together, while simultaneously hiding the cables and power sources. There are two main methods to accomplish this task: the first (and easiest) is to use a single run of lights. This is also the most common type of application you’ll see. A linear strip of LED lights (tape or rope style) is installed on the staircase wall, illuminating from the side. Tape lights have a peel-and-stick backing, but you can also use small silicone brackets or channels to secure the lights, depending on the desired aesthetic. Interconnection cables or pin connectors can be used if you need a gap or if you have an odd length of strip light.
If your staircase is fewer than 18 feet in length, a 12- or 24-volt strip with driver should get the job done. However, if your staircase is longer than 18 feet, you’ll need to split the strip light run between two LED drivers to ensure the proper amount of power. For runs that need to be split, a driver would need to be at each end of the full run, but the two runs would not be connected. Each LED driver would need to be hidden and wired to the most convenient light switch. If you don’t have a light switch already near your stairs, you would need to install one or you can choose to install an outlet instead (for an LED driver with a built-in plug) and wire the outlet to your preferred light switch.
The second, more complex method is to light each individual stair with LEDs. While this type of installation garners the win for “Most Dramatic” effect, it is also an advanced technique that requires electrical soldering work. If you’ve got the goods and wish to proceed on your own, click here for a detailed set of instructions. If instead you’re waiting on your electrician and wish to explore the many staircase lighting LED offerings and their corresponding accessories, feel free to dive right in!
While browsing, take note that many LED tape and rope products are also dimmable. Consider this additional level of control for your installation. Illuminating stairs at the highest light level while in use provides greater safety. Reducing the light level using a compatible dimmer can help to achieve a softer look while still enhancing with some light. If you’ve got open-tread or floating stairs, shadows cast from the staircase lighting create additional visual interest.
Remember to look at your outdoor stairs and steps too. Adequate lighting is crucial for safety in these areas since darkness and weather elements increase the probability for accidents. When lighting exterior stair areas, consider adding LED strips to both handrails and stairs for even more defense against falls, and be sure to use waterproof accessories.
