Outdoor COB LED Strip — IP67 & IP68

Every outdoor COB strip in the ATOM LED collection delivers a continuous dot-free light line rated for rain, frost, and ground-level moisture exposure. Available in 24V and 48V configurations with warm white, natural white, and cool white colour temperatures, each strip ships from UK stock in Telford with free delivery and is backed by a 7-year warranty covering outdoor installations.

IP67 & IP68 rated · CRI90+ · cut to length at marked intervals at any point · 24V and 48V · UV-stable silicone encapsulation · 5-year outdoor warranty · Free UK delivery · UK stock

1. What makes an outdoor COB LED strip different from indoor strip?
2. Which IP rating do you actually need for outdoor use in the UK?
3. How does COB strip compare to SMD strip for exterior installations?
4. Should you choose 24V or 48V outdoor COB strip?
5. What colour temperature works best for outdoor lighting?
6. Why are aluminium profiles essential for outdoor COB strip?
7. How do you install outdoor COB LED strip step by step?
8. What driver and power supply do you need for exterior COB strip?
9. How do you wire long outdoor COB strip runs without voltage drop?
10. What are the most common outdoor COB strip installation mistakes?
11. Where are outdoor COB LED strips used in 2026 UK projects?
12. Why do contractors and designers specify ATOM LED outdoor COB strip?
13. Frequently asked questions about outdoor COB LED strip

Quick decision summary:

• Garden paths, decking perimeters, or facade lighting exposed to rain: Choose IP67 outdoor COB strip in your preferred colour temperature for reliable performance across all UK seasons.
• Ponds, water features, or ground-recessed channels where standing water collects: Specify IP68 rated COB strip, which is tested for continuous submersion and withstands pooling water in drainage channels or below-grade profiles.
• Long outdoor runs exceeding 10 metres: Use 48V outdoor COB strip to halve voltage drop and maintain consistent brightness across the full run length.
• Exposed facades or south-facing walls in direct sunlight: Confirm your strip uses UV-stable silicone encapsulation, not standard epoxy coating, which yellows and cracks within 12 to 18 months of UV exposure.

Who this is for: Landscape designers, electricians, garden lighting specifiers, architects working on exterior facades, hospitality venues needing terrace and outdoor dining lighting, and homeowners fitting permanent garden or decking illumination. If your COB strip will be exposed to rain, frost, condensation, ground moisture, or direct sunlight at any point in its service life, you need strip from this outdoor-rated collection.

Who this is NOT for: If your installation is entirely indoors with no moisture exposure, standard indoor COB strip from the parent COB LED strip collection costs less and performs identically in dry conditions. If you need a shaped outdoor neon effect rather than a flat strip format, see the dedicated outdoor LED neon flex range instead. If you want colour-changing outdoor capability, you need RGBW COB strip in an IP67 or IP68 variant.

Common buying mistakes to avoid:

• Specifying IP65 for outdoor use: IP65 is rated for surface splashes only and is not classified as suitable for permanent UK outdoor installations under BS7671 wiring regulations, where rain, wind-driven water, and frost cycles are the norm.
• Using epoxy-coated strip outdoors: Epoxy resin yellows under UV exposure, becomes brittle in frost, and typically fails within one to two years in UK conditions.
• Skipping aluminium profiles: Outdoor COB strip mounted directly onto timber, render, or composite decking without an aluminium heat-dissipation profile runs significantly hotter, shortening LED lifespan and weakening adhesive bond in summer temperatures.
• Powering strip while still on the reel: Never test or run outdoor COB strip while coiled, as heat cannot dissipate, damaging the silicone encapsulation and creating a potential fire risk.

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What makes IP67 and IP68 outdoor COB strip different from indoor strip?

IP67 outdoor COB strip is encased in UV-stable silicone tubing rated for temporary immersion — rain, hose spray, and pooling water on decking edges. IP68 uses full potting compound for continuous submersion in ponds and fountains. Indoor IP20 strip has an exposed circuit board that corrodes within weeks of outdoor moisture exposure. The silicone adds roughly 2mm to the strip profile. IP65 is splash-resistant only and is not stocked in the ATOM LED outdoor range.

Outdoor COB LED strip uses a fully sealed encapsulation layer — typically UV-stable silicone — over the entire LED circuit board to prevent moisture, condensation, and particulate ingress. Indoor COB strip has exposed components with no waterproofing, meaning any moisture contact risks short circuits, corrosion, and immediate failure in exterior environments.

The encapsulation method is the critical difference, and it is where most low-cost outdoor strip fails. There are three main approaches used across the market in 2026, and they perform very differently in real UK weather conditions.

• Silicone sleeve (IP67): The strip sits inside a continuous silicone tube that is sealed at both ends with silicone caps, preventing rain and condensation from reaching the circuit board while still allowing the strip to flex during installation.
• Silicone potting (IP68): The strip is fully potted in solid silicone, creating a Waterproof mass around every component, suitable for continuous submersion in ponds, fountains, and below-grade drainage channels.
• Nano coating (not recommended for UK outdoor): A thin hydrophobic coating applied to the PCB surface that repels light moisture but does not seal against prolonged rain, standing water, or frost-thaw cycles — this is essentially an IP65-level treatment.

The ATOM LED outdoor range uses professional-grade silicone encapsulation across all IP67 and IP68 products. This silicone remains flexible across a temperature range of approximately -40C to +200C, which means it does not crack during UK winter frost or soften excessively in summer heat. Epoxy alternatives, used by some competitors to reduce cost, become rigid below 0C and yellow within months of UV exposure.

Beyond encapsulation, outdoor COB strip also requires consideration of the adhesive backing, solder joint protection, and connector sealing — all areas covered in the installation section below.

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Which IP rating do you actually need for outdoor use in the UK?

For most UK outdoor COB strip installations — garden lighting, decking, facades, pergolas, and exterior architectural features — IP67 is the minimum recommended rating. IP65 is rated for surface splashes only and does not meet the requirements for permanent outdoor exposure under BS7671 wiring regulations. IP68 is required where strip will be submerged or exposed to standing water.

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system is defined by IEC 60529 and consists of two digits. The first digit rates solid particle protection (dust), and the second rates liquid protection. For outdoor LED strip, the second digit is the one that determines whether your installation will survive UK weather.

IP Rating	Water Protection Level	Suitable UK Outdoor Applications	Not Suitable For
IP65	Low-pressure water jets from any direction	Covered porches with no direct rain exposure, internal greenhouse use	Any permanent outdoor installation exposed to UK rainfall, frost, or wind-driven water
IP67	Temporary immersion up to 1m for 30 minutes	Garden paths, decking perimeters, facades, pergolas, fences, outdoor kitchens, most exterior architectural lighting	Permanent submersion in ponds or water features
IP68	Continuous submersion beyond 1m (manufacturer-specified depth and duration)	Pond lighting, fountain illumination, below-grade drainage channels, fully exposed ground-recessed installations, water features	High-pressure industrial wash-down environments
IP69	High-pressure, high-temperature wash-down	Commercial kitchens, food processing areas, industrial wash-down zones	Standard residential or garden use (over-specified and unnecessary cost)

One of the most frequent errors we see at ATOM LED is specifiers choosing IP65 outdoor strip because the listing mentions "Waterproof." Under BS7671, IP65 covers protection against water jets — not the sustained exposure to rain, pooling, condensation, and freeze-thaw cycles that define British weather across all seasons. An IP65 strip installed on an exposed garden wall in 2026 will likely show moisture ingress within 6 to 12 months.

• IP67 covers the vast majority of UK outdoor projects: Unless your strip will sit in standing water or be submerged, IP67 silicone-sleeved COB strip handles rain, frost, condensation, and coastal humidity without failure.
• IP68 is essential for any water contact scenario: Pond edges, fountain beds, below-deck drainage runs, and any channel where rainwater could pool around the strip require IP68 potted encapsulation.
• Check the encapsulation method, not just the IP number: Two strips can both claim IP67, but one uses full silicone sleeving while the other uses a thin epoxy spray coat that degrades under UV exposure within a year.

For guidance on IP67 product specifications, see the dedicated IP67 product range. For applications requiring submersion-grade protection, see the IP68 collection.

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How does COB strip compare to SMD strip for exterior installations?

COB strip produces a continuous, dot-free light line that looks significantly more professional in outdoor settings where the strip is visible — along pathways, under coping, or inside shallow profiles. SMD strip creates a repeating dot pattern of individual LED points that becomes visually distracting at close range, particularly in garden and decking installations where viewing distances are typically under 2 metres.

Beyond the visual difference, COB and SMD outdoor strip also behave differently in terms of heat distribution, flexibility, and long-term durability in exterior conditions.

Feature	Outdoor COB Strip (2026 Spec)	Outdoor SMD Strip (2835/5050)
Light output pattern	Continuous dot-free line	Individual visible LED points with dark gaps
Typical LED density	320–528 chips per metre	60–120 LEDs per metre
Diffuser requirement	Not required for smooth appearance — optional	Deep diffuser profile required to blend dot pattern
CRI (ATOM LED range)	CRI90+ standard	Typically CRI80 (CRI90 available at premium)
Flexibility for curved paths	Excellent — bends smoothly on curves	Good — but visible dots become uneven on tight curves
Heat distribution	Even across full strip width	Concentrated at individual LED points
Cut points	cut to length at marked intervals at any point (ATOM LED)	Fixed intervals only (typically every 3–6 LEDs)
Outdoor suitability (IP67+)	Full silicone encapsulation available	Silicone or epoxy sleeving available

For outdoor installations in 2026, COB strip has become the preferred choice among landscape designers and electrical contractors because it eliminates the dotting problem that plagued SMD strip in shallow profile installations. When strip is mounted inside a surface-mounted aluminium profile along a garden wall or under a decking edge at 300mm to 600mm viewing distance, every individual SMD LED becomes a separate point of light. COB strip solves this entirely.

• Shallow profile compatibility: Because COB strip does not rely on a deep diffuser to blend its output, you can use slimmer outdoor profiles that sit more discreetly against fences, walls, and decking edges.
• Curved path performance: COB strip bends cleanly around gentle garden path curves without the uneven brightness that SMD strip produces when individual LEDs sit at different angles on a curve.
• Higher CRI as standard: CRI90+ is standard across the ATOM LED outdoor COB range, meaning plants, stone, timber, and paving render in their true colours under the light rather than appearing washed out.

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Should you choose 24V or 48V outdoor COB strip?

For outdoor runs under 10 metres from a single feed point, 24V outdoor COB strip is practical and cost-effective. For runs between 10 and 30 metres, 48V is the better choice because voltage drop occurs at half the rate of 24V over the same distance at the same wattage, maintaining consistent brightness across the full length of the installation.

Voltage drop is the gradual reduction in brightness along a strip as electrical resistance increases with distance from the power supply. In outdoor installations, runs tend to be longer than indoor projects — a garden perimeter, a driveway edge, or a building facade can easily exceed 15 metres. On 24V strip at moderate wattages, you will typically see noticeable dimming beyond approximately 8 to 10 metres from the feed point.

• 24V outdoor COB strip: Suitable for runs up to approximately 10 metres from a single feed. Wider range of compatible drivers and controllers. Maximum single-feed run on ATOM LED 24V single colour is 20m, though dual-end feeding is recommended beyond 10m to maintain uniformity.
• 48V outdoor COB strip: Handles runs up to 30 metres from a single feed point on ATOM LED single colour strip, and up to 50m with dual-end feeding. Halves the current draw compared to 24V at the same wattage, reducing cable gauge requirements for long exterior runs.
• Safety consideration for outdoor installations: 48V DC falls within the SELV voltage threshold under BS7671 (120V DC ripple-free maximum), provided it is supplied from a suitably isolated, safety-rated driver. SELV classification means significantly reduced shock risk under dry conditions, though wet outdoor environments require additional care with connection sealing and driver enclosure ratings.

For most residential garden and decking projects where runs are under 10 metres, 24V COB strip keeps costs lower and offers the widest choice of compatible dimmers and controllers. For commercial landscapes, long building facades, and large garden designs, 48V COB strip reduces the number of feed points and driver locations needed across the site.

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What colour temperature works best for outdoor lighting?

Warm white (2700K–3000K) is the most widely specified colour temperature for residential outdoor lighting in 2026, producing a soft amber-toned light that complements gardens, timber decking, stone, and brick. Natural white (4000K) suits commercial exteriors, car parks, and security applications where visibility and colour accuracy matter more than ambience.

Outdoor colour temperature selection follows different priorities to indoor lighting. At night, the human eye adapts to darkness, and cooler, bluer light appears harsher and more intrusive than it does indoors. This is one reason landscape designers overwhelmingly specify warm white for residential projects.

• Warm white 2700K: The most popular residential outdoor choice. Produces a golden light that makes garden planting, timber, and natural stone look warm and inviting. Least disruptive to neighbouring properties and wildlife.
• Warm white 3000K: Slightly crisper than 2700K while still feeling warm. Preferred by many architects for contemporary garden designs and outdoor dining areas where food presentation matters.
• Natural white 4000K: Balanced daylight-style output. Used in commercial exteriors, retail frontages, hospitality terrace areas, and anywhere accurate colour rendering is the priority over mood.
• Cool white 5000K–6500K: Reserved for security lighting, industrial exteriors, loading bays, and task-specific outdoor work areas. Not typically recommended for residential garden use as it appears cold and clinical at night.

All ATOM LED outdoor COB strip ships at CRI90+ regardless of colour temperature, which means the light renders the natural colours of plants, paving, and building materials accurately. Lower-CRI strip from other suppliers can make red brick appear brownish and green foliage look grey under artificial light — a particularly noticeable issue in garden lighting where the whole point is to enhance the look of natural materials.

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Why are aluminium profiles essential for outdoor COB strip?

Aluminium profiles serve as both a heat sink and a protective mounting channel for outdoor COB strip. Without a profile, outdoor strip generates heat that has nowhere to dissipate, accelerating LED degradation and weakening adhesive bond. The profile also physically protects the strip from impact damage, UV exposure on the backing, and mechanical stress from wind or thermal expansion.

Every watt of power consumed by an LED strip converts into a combination of light and heat. Indoors, ambient temperatures rarely exceed 25C and airflow around the strip is sufficient for basic thermal management. Outdoors, the strip may be enclosed in a sealed profile, mounted on a south-facing wall reaching 50C+ in summer sun, or installed below decking boards where air circulation is minimal. In these conditions, the aluminium profile acts as a heat sink that draws thermal energy away from the LED chips and spreads it across the metal surface.

• Heat dissipation: Aluminium conducts heat approximately 900 times more effectively than timber and 200 times more effectively than composite decking material, keeping LED junction temperatures within safe operating limits even in enclosed outdoor installations.
• Mechanical protection: Outdoor profiles with IP-rated diffuser covers shield the strip from accidental impact, foot traffic (in ground-recessed installations), garden debris, and nesting insects.
• UV protection for adhesive backing: The 3M VHB adhesive on the back of COB strip degrades under direct UV exposure over time, even on IP67 rated strip — mounting inside a profile eliminates this exposure entirely.
• Clean finished appearance: A profile with a frosted or opal diffuser creates a professional-grade finish that suits architectural and landscape projects, compared to exposed strip that looks unfinished regardless of its IP rating.

Never mount outdoor COB strip directly onto bare metal surfaces without insulation between the strip backing and the metal. Direct metal contact can cause short circuits at the solder joints, particularly in damp conditions where condensation forms on the metal surface. Always use the strip's adhesive backing or a dedicated mounting clip to maintain insulation between the PCB and the profile body.

Browse the full range of outdoor-suitable mounting channels in the LED strip profile collection, including surface-mount, recessed, corner, and ground-recessed options.

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How do you install outdoor IP67 COB strip step by step?

Mount an aluminium profile with sealed end caps along the run. Press the IP67 strip into the channel and connect to an IP67-rated driver housed in a ventilated, weatherproof enclosure. Use IP67 or IP68 rated connectors at every join — standard indoor connectors corrode within one UK autumn. Test the circuit dry before sealing the profile cover.

Installing outdoor COB LED strip requires careful planning around waterproofing, heat management, and wiring protection that indoor installations do not demand. The following step-by-step process covers a typical IP67 silicone-sleeved COB strip installation into an aluminium profile on a garden wall, fence, or decking edge — the most common outdoor application in 2026.

1. Step 1 — Plan your layout and measure precisely: Map the full run length, noting any corners, joins, and the location of your driver enclosure. Measure twice and allow an additional 100mm at each end for connections. Identify your feed point position — for runs over 10m on 24V or 20m on 48V, plan for dual-end feeding or a mid-point injection to prevent visible brightness drop-off at the far end.
2. Step 2 — Select and mount your aluminium profile: Choose a profile with an IP-rated diffuser cover suitable for your mounting surface. Pre-drill fixing holes in the profile channel at 300mm centres, then secure it using stainless steel screws (not standard zinc-plated, which corrode outdoors). For ground-recessed installations, ensure the profile channel has adequate drainage so rainwater does not pool around the strip.
3. Step 3 — Prepare the strip and make connections: Uncoil the strip fully on a clean, dry surface — never power it while coiled, as heat builds up rapidly and can damage the silicone encapsulation. Cut to your measured length using the cut to length at marked intervals marks. For IP67 strip, use IP67-rated silicone end caps and Waterproof connectors at every join and termination point. Solder connections produce more reliable long-term joints than push-fit connectors in outdoor environments where thermal cycling stresses connections.
4. Step 4 — Wire the driver and test before final mounting: Connect your strip to the LED driver using appropriately rated outdoor cable (minimum 1.0mm2 for most runs, 1.5mm2 for runs over 15m or higher-wattage strip). Use a multimeter to verify correct voltage at the strip terminals before adhering the strip into the profile. Test the full run for even brightness, correct colour temperature, and proper dimming response before proceeding to permanent installation.
5. Step 5 — Mount the strip into the profile: Peel the 3M adhesive backing and press the strip firmly into the profile channel, working along the length without stretching. Ensure the strip sits flat with no twists or raised sections. On vertical or overhead installations, supplement the adhesive with silicone-compatible mounting clips every 200mm to prevent the strip sagging over time as the adhesive bond ages.
6. Step 6 — Seal all connections and end points: Apply self-amalgamating silicone tape or IP67-rated heat-shrink over every connection, wire entry point, and end cap. This is the step most DIY installations skip, and it is the primary reason outdoor strip fails prematurely. Every unsealed junction is a moisture entry point.
7. Step 7 — Install the driver in a weatherproof enclosure: Mount the driver inside an IP65 or higher rated enclosure, positioned above the strip level where possible to prevent water running down cables into the driver housing. Ensure the enclosure allows adequate ventilation for heat dissipation — drivers generate significant heat under load, and sealed enclosures without airflow can cause thermal shutdown.
8. Step 8 — Final commissioning and documentation: Power the complete installation and check for consistent brightness along the full run. Verify dimming operation if applicable. Photograph the driver location, wiring layout, and connection points for future maintenance reference. Note the driver wattage, strip length, and installation date for warranty records.

For detailed wiring guidance and driver selection, see the LED power supply collection and the dedicated COB strip accessories page for Waterproof connectors, end caps, and mounting hardware.

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What driver and power supply do you need for exterior COB strip?

Outdoor COB strip requires a constant voltage LED driver rated to at least 120% of the total strip wattage, housed in an IP65 or higher rated enclosure for exterior installations. For single colour outdoor strip, choose a dimmable driver if you want brightness control. For RGBW outdoor strip, always use a non-dimmable constant voltage driver paired with a dedicated RGB controller — never a dimmable driver, which causes flicker and colour shift.

Driver selection for outdoor installations adds two requirements beyond indoor projects: the driver itself must be protected from weather, and the power calculation must account for the slightly higher ambient temperatures that outdoor enclosures experience in summer.

• Wattage calculation: Multiply the strip wattage per metre by the total metres installed, then add a 20% headroom margin. Running a driver at full rated capacity generates excess heat and reduces its service life. For example, a 15m run of 14W/m strip draws 210W — specify a driver rated at 250W or above.
• Voltage matching: A 24V strip requires a 24V DC constant voltage driver. A 48V strip requires a 48V DC driver. Mismatched voltage will either under-drive the strip (dim, flickering output) or destroy it immediately.
• Dimming compatibility: For dimmable single colour outdoor installations, TRIAC dimmable drivers work with standard trailing-edge dimmers. Leading-edge dimmers frequently cause flicker with LED drivers — replacing a leading-edge dimmer with a trailing-edge model costs approximately £15 and solves most flickering issues.
• Driver enclosure rating: If the driver will be mounted outdoors, it needs to be housed in a minimum IP65 rated enclosure. Many drivers carry their own IP rating (IP20, IP44, IP67), but this rates the driver casing itself — you still need to protect cable entry points and terminal connections from moisture.
• Cable sizing for outdoor runs: Longer cable runs between driver and strip require thicker cable to minimise voltage drop in the supply cable itself. For runs over 10m between driver and strip, use minimum 1.5mm2 cable. For runs over 20m, consider 2.5mm2 or relocate the driver closer to the strip.

Browse 24V LED drivers and 48V LED drivers for outdoor-compatible power supply options. Call 01952 370028 if you need help calculating the correct driver wattage for your specific outdoor project.

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How do you wire long outdoor COB strip runs without voltage drop?

Parallel wiring is the recommended method for outdoor COB strip installations with multiple strips or runs exceeding 10 metres on 24V. In parallel wiring, each strip section connects directly back to the driver rather than daisy-chaining end-to-end, which prevents cumulative voltage drop from dimming the far end of the installation. For 48V strip, single runs up to 30 metres are typically achievable without supplementary wiring.

Voltage drop is the most common cause of uneven brightness in outdoor strip installations, and it is more noticeable outdoors because runs tend to be longer and viewing conditions after dark highlight any brightness variation more clearly than indoor ambient lighting does.

• Series wiring (avoid for long runs): Strip A feeds into Strip B, which feeds into Strip C. Each subsequent strip receives progressively lower voltage, resulting in visible dimming. On a 15m series-wired 24V run at 14W/m, the final 3 metres can appear noticeably dimmer than the first 3 metres.
• Parallel wiring (recommended): Each strip section runs its own supply cable directly back to the driver. Every section receives the full driver voltage, ensuring consistent brightness from the first metre to the last.
• Dual-end feeding: For single long runs where parallel wiring back to the driver is impractical, feed power from both ends of the strip simultaneously. This halves the maximum distance from a feed point and dramatically reduces voltage drop across the run.
• Mid-point power injection: On very long runs, an additional power feed at the midpoint of the strip supplements voltage where drop-off would otherwise begin. This is particularly useful on 24V installations exceeding 12 metres where dual-end feeding is not practical.

When planning outdoor wiring, always use outdoor-rated cable with UV-resistant sheathing. Standard indoor twin-and-earth degrades rapidly when exposed to sunlight and moisture. Run cables through conduit wherever possible, and seal every junction with self-amalgamating tape or IP-rated junction boxes.

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What are the most common outdoor COB strip installation mistakes?

The five most frequent outdoor COB strip failures seen by the ATOM LED technical team are: choosing IP65 instead of IP67 for exposed locations, skipping aluminium profiles for heat management, using indoor-rated connectors at outdoor junctions, powering strip while still coiled on the reel, and mounting strip directly onto bare metal without insulation. Each of these mistakes leads to premature failure, usually within the first 12 months.

• Mistake 1 — IP65 outdoors: IP65 protects against water jets but not sustained rain, frost-thaw cycles, or condensation build-up. Within 6 to 12 months of external installation in typical UK conditions, moisture seeps through the coating and corrodes solder joints. Always specify IP67 minimum for any strip exposed to weather.
• Mistake 2 — No aluminium profile: Adhesive-mounting COB strip directly onto timber fencing, composite decking, or rendered walls means the strip has no heat sink. During summer evenings when ambient temperatures are still 20C+ and the strip is running, LED junction temperatures climb above optimal limits, accelerating phosphor degradation and reducing lumen output year on year.
• Mistake 3 — Indoor connectors outdoors: Push-fit plastic connectors rated at IP20 are the weakest link in any outdoor installation. Thermal expansion cycles — the strip heats during operation and cools overnight — gradually loosen push-fit connections, creating intermittent failures. Use soldered connections with IP67-rated heat-shrink or gel-filled junction boxes for permanent outdoor joints.
• Mistake 4 — Powering strip while coiled: When COB strip remains on the reel and is powered on, heat builds up rapidly in the tightly wound layers. This damages the silicone encapsulation, weakens the adhesive, and in severe cases creates a fire risk. Always uncoil the full length before any power testing.
• Mistake 5 — Bare metal mounting without insulation: Mounting strip directly onto bare aluminium, steel, or copper surfaces without the adhesive backing or an insulating layer creates short-circuit risk at the solder joints. In damp outdoor conditions, condensation on the metal surface increases conductivity and accelerates corrosion at contact points.

Avoiding these five mistakes accounts for the majority of the difference between an outdoor COB strip installation that performs reliably for 5+ years and one that fails within the first winter.

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Where do UK contractors install outdoor IP67 and IP68 COB strip in 2026?

Garden decking edge lighting is the single largest application. Patio perimeter runs, raised planter accents, pergola ceiling strips, and pathway border lighting follow. Commercial uses include restaurant terrace lighting, hotel entrance canopy runs, and retail window reveals exposed to condensation. Bathroom wet zones (BS 7671 Zone 1 and Zone 2) account for roughly 20% of IP67 strip orders.

Outdoor COB LED strip is used across residential gardens, commercial landscapes, hospitality venues, architectural facades, and public realm schemes throughout the UK in 2026. The dot-free light output and high CRI90+ colour rendering make it particularly suitable for applications where the lighting quality is a visible design element rather than purely functional illumination.

• Garden path and step lighting: Recessed into ground-level profiles along pathways or under step nosings, providing safe navigation lighting that doubles as decorative garden illumination using warm white 2700K or 3000K.
• Decking perimeter and under-rail lighting: Mounted beneath handrails, along the fascia edge of raised decking, or under bench seating to create ambient outdoor living spaces. See the LED decking lights collection for additional exterior options.
• Building facade and architectural highlighting: Surface-mounted in profiles to wash walls, highlight architectural details, or define the roofline of commercial buildings. 48V strip is preferred for facades where continuous runs of 15m+ are common.
• Outdoor hospitality and dining areas: Restaurant terraces, pub gardens, and hotel courtyards use outdoor COB strip in pergola structures, under bar tops, and along seating walls to extend usable trading hours through the evening.
• Pond and water feature edge lighting: IP68 COB strip installed at the waterline of garden ponds, fountain basins, and reflecting pools to illuminate the water surface and surrounding planting.
• Driveway and entrance lighting: Recessed into edging profiles along driveway borders or integrated into gatepost cappings to provide welcoming arrival lighting that also improves security through passive deterrence.
• Commercial signage and retail frontage: Illuminating shop fronts, branded signage, and window displays visible from the street, where CRI90+ output ensures brand colours appear accurate under artificial light.

The flexibility of COB strip allows it to follow curves, fit into tight spaces, and produce continuous light lines that rigid LED fixtures cannot match. For projects where a shaped neon-style effect is preferred over a flat strip format, see the LED neon flex collection for outdoor-rated alternatives.

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Why do contractors and designers specify ATOM LED outdoor COB strip?

ATOM LED outdoor COB strip is specified because it combines IP67/IP68 UV-stable silicone encapsulation, CRI90+ output, cut to length at marked intervals, and 7-year warranty coverage that includes outdoor installations — a combination that most UK suppliers do not match across their outdoor strip range. All stock ships from the UK warehouse in Telford with free delivery, backed by a technical team available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

• Cut technology: Cut the strip at any point along its length to fit your exact measurement without voiding the warranty. Competitor strips typically restrict cuts to fixed intervals of 25mm, 50mm, or 100mm, forcing you to round up or leave excess strip folded behind the fitting.
• CRI90+ as standard: All outdoor COB strip in the ATOM LED range ships at CRI90 or above, ensuring natural colours of stone, timber, planting, and building materials render accurately under the light. Many competitors offer CRI80 as standard with CRI90 only on premium lines.
• UV-stable silicone encapsulation: The silicone used on ATOM LED IP67 and IP68 strip is tested for UV stability, meaning it does not yellow, crack, or delaminate after prolonged sun exposure — unlike epoxy coatings used by lower-cost suppliers.
• Extended outdoor run lengths: 20m single feed on 24V single colour, 30m single feed on 48V single colour, and 50m dual feed on 48V — reducing the number of drivers, connection points, and potential failure points across large outdoor projects.
• UK stock, not dropshipped: Every reel ships from the ATOM LED warehouse in Telford, Shropshire. Orders placed before 2pm on a weekday typically dispatch the same day. No waiting for overseas shipments or uncertain stock availability.
• Technical support: The ATOM LED technical team is available on 01952 370028, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, for project-specific advice on outdoor installations, driver sizing, wiring layouts, and profile selection.

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Frequently asked questions — outdoor IP67 and IP68 COB strip

The following FAQs cover the questions most frequently asked by customers, electricians, and designers before specifying outdoor COB LED strip for UK installations in 2026. Each answer reflects the technical guidance provided by the ATOM LED team based on real-world outdoor project experience.

1. Can I use IP65 COB strip outdoors in the UK?

• IP65 is not recommended for permanent outdoor installations in the UK. It is rated for surface splashes and low-pressure water jets only, which does not cover sustained rainfall, frost-thaw cycling, or wind-driven moisture — all standard UK weather conditions throughout the year.
• IP67 is the minimum rating for any outdoor COB strip exposed to the elements. For submersion applications, specify IP68.

2. How long does outdoor COB LED strip last?

• When correctly installed in an aluminium profile with sealed connections, outdoor COB strip typically delivers 30,000 to 50,000 hours of rated output. In practical terms, for a garden lighting installation running approximately 6 hours per evening year-round, this equates to 13 to 22 years before the LEDs degrade below 70% of original brightness (L70).
• ATOM LED covers outdoor COB strip with a 7-year warranty when installed according to the guidelines above.

3. Does outdoor COB strip need a diffuser cover?

• No — COB strip produces a smooth, dot-free light line that looks professional without a diffuser. However, a frosted or opal diffuser cover on the aluminium profile reduces glare from direct viewing angles and provides additional physical protection against debris and impact damage in outdoor settings.

4. Can I dim outdoor COB LED strip?

• Yes — single colour outdoor COB strip can be dimmed using a compatible dimmable driver and a trailing-edge dimmer. Leading-edge dimmers frequently cause flicker with LED drivers. Replacing a leading-edge dimmer with a trailing-edge model costs approximately £15.
• RGBW outdoor COB strip must use a non-dimmable constant voltage driver paired with a dedicated RGB controller. Using a dimmable driver with RGBW strip causes flicker, colour shift, and premature failure.

5. What is the difference between silicone coating and nano coating on outdoor strip?

• Silicone encapsulation (used on IP67/IP68 strip) fully seals the strip in a continuous sleeve or solid potting compound, creating a physical barrier against water, condensation, and particulate ingress that remains flexible across a temperature range of approximately -40C to +200C.
• Nano coating applies a thin hydrophobic layer directly to the PCB surface. This repels light moisture but does not seal against sustained rain, standing water, or frost cycles. Nano-coated strip is effectively IP65-level protection and is not suitable for permanent UK outdoor use.

6. Can outdoor COB strip be used in a bathroom?

• Yes — IP67 rated outdoor COB strip exceeds the requirements for most bathroom zones under BS7671. It is a common and practical choice for shower enclosure lighting, above-bath features, and steam-exposed areas where IP65 rated strip would not provide adequate protection.

7. How do I connect outdoor COB strip without breaking the Waterproof seal?

• Use IP67-rated Waterproof connectors or soldered joints sealed with self-amalgamating silicone tape. Standard push-fit connectors rated at IP20 are the most common failure point in outdoor installations because thermal cycling loosens the connection over time.
• Every wire entry point, end cap, and mid-run junction must be individually sealed to maintain the strip's overall IP rating.

8. Does outdoor COB strip work in freezing temperatures?

• Yes — UV-stable silicone encapsulation remains flexible down to approximately -40C, which is well below the lowest recorded UK temperatures. The strip operates normally through frost, ice, and snow conditions.
• Epoxy-coated strip, by contrast, becomes rigid below approximately 0C and can crack during freeze-thaw cycles, allowing moisture ingress. This is one reason silicone-encapsulated strip is the preferred choice for UK outdoor use.

9. What cable should I use for outdoor COB strip wiring?

• Use outdoor-rated cable with UV-resistant sheathing, minimum 1.0mm2 for runs under 10m and 1.5mm2 or 2.5mm2 for longer runs to minimise voltage drop in the supply cable.
• Standard indoor twin-and-earth cable is not suitable for outdoor use — its sheathing degrades under UV exposure and moisture, creating a safety risk within 2 to 3 years.

10. Can I install outdoor COB strip on timber fencing or composite decking without a profile?

• This is not recommended. Timber and composite materials do not dissipate heat effectively, causing LED junction temperatures to rise above optimal limits and shortening strip lifespan.
• Always mount outdoor COB strip inside an aluminium profile, which acts as a heat sink and protects the strip from physical damage, UV exposure on the adhesive backing, and insect ingress.

11. How many watts per metre do I need for outdoor path lighting vs. facade washing?

• Path and step lighting: 8W to 10W per metre typically provides sufficient ground-level illumination for safe navigation without overpowering the garden ambience.
• Facade and wall washing: 14W to 20W per metre is more appropriate for washing a vertical surface with enough brightness to be visually impactful from a viewing distance of 5 to 15 metres.

12. Does ATOM LED outdoor COB strip come with a warranty for exterior use?

• Yes — all ATOM LED COB strip carries a 7-year warranty on DC voltage products, including outdoor installations, provided the strip is installed in an aluminium profile with correctly sealed connections and powered by a suitably rated driver.
• Contact operations@atomled.co.uk or call 01952 370028 for warranty queries or to discuss specific outdoor installation scenarios with the technical team.

13. Is outdoor COB strip safe to install on a metal pergola frame?

• Yes, but never mount the strip directly onto bare metal without an insulating layer. The adhesive backing on the strip provides basic insulation, but for additional safety on metal structures, mount the strip inside an aluminium profile where the anodised or powder-coated profile surface provides a consistent insulating barrier between the strip's solder pads and the structural metalwork.

14. What is the maximum run length for outdoor COB strip from a single feed?

• On ATOM LED 24V single colour outdoor strip, the maximum single-feed run is 20 metres. Dual-end feeding is recommended beyond 10m to maintain consistent brightness across the full length.
• On 48V single colour outdoor strip, the maximum single-feed run is 30 metres, with dual feed extending this to 50m. This makes 48V the preferred voltage for long exterior runs such as building perimeters, driveway edges, and commercial landscapes.

15. Can outdoor COB strip be used with smart home controllers?

• Yes — outdoor COB strip works with smart controllers from MiBoxer, Skydance, and Ltech, enabling app control, scheduling, and integration with Alexa, Google Home, and other smart platforms.
• The controller itself must be housed in a weatherproof enclosure if located outdoors. Most smart LED controllers are rated IP20 and need protection from rain and condensation.

16. Where can I get help planning an outdoor COB strip installation?

• The ATOM LED technical team provides free project planning advice for outdoor installations, including driver sizing, wiring layouts, profile selection, and IP rating guidance.
• Call 01952 370028 Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, or email operations@atomled.co.uk with your project details for a specification recommendation.

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Ready to order outdoor IP67 or IP68 COB strip for your project?

Browse the full ATOM LED outdoor COB strip range below, or contact the technical team for project-specific guidance on IP ratings, voltage selection, driver sizing, and profile recommendations for your exterior installation.

• Browse: Outdoor COB LED strip collection
• Call: 01952 370028 — Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm
• Email: operations@atomled.co.uk

Free UK delivery on 97% of products. 7-year warranty on all COB DC voltage strip. UK stock dispatched from Telford, Shropshire — not dropshipped. Technical support available on every order from specification through to installation.

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Why choose ATOM LED for your LED lighting project?

ATOM LED is a UK-based LED lighting specialist stocking every product in our Telford warehouse. We do not dropship from overseas suppliers. Free UK delivery on 97% of products, with typical delivery in 1 to 3 working days, backed by a 7-year warranty on all COB DC voltage strip lights.

• Cut technology: Cut ATOM LED strip at any point without voiding the warranty — no need to find cut marks in tight spaces.
• CRI90+ on all COB strip: Colours render naturally under ATOM LED strip, making it suitable for kitchens, retail displays, and any application where colour accuracy matters.
• Technical team available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm: Call 01952 370028 or email operations@atomled.co.uk for help with voltage selection, driver sizing, IP ratings, and installation planning.
• UK stock, not dropshipped: Every product ships from our Telford warehouse. No overseas lead times, no customs delays, no uncertainty on delivery dates.
• 20m single feed on 24V, 30m on 48V: Longer single-feed runs than most UK competitors, reducing the number of drivers and feed points required in large installations.

Custom cut and sealed: we cut to your length and reseal the silicone end cap before dispatch. The IP67 or IP68 rating covers the full piece. Most UK suppliers ship full reels and leave the installer to cut and reseal on site — that is where waterproofing failures start. No IP65 in this range — only IP67 and IP68, the ratings that survive UK outdoor conditions.

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Does cutting outdoor COB strip void the IP67 waterproof rating?

No — ATOM LED cuts and seals outdoor COB strip before dispatch. We cut at the nearest 50mm marked interval, then apply UV-stable silicone end caps to maintain the IP67 or IP68 rating across the full length including the cut point. A 5.4m decking run arrives sealed and waterproof at both ends. Competitors who ship full reels leave the cutting and resealing to the installer, which voids the IP rating if done incorrectly.

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Related Collections

• indoor LED strip range
• outdoor LED neon flex
• IP67-rated neon flex
• IP68 neon flex for submerged applications
• weatherproof LED drivers
• outdoor aluminium profiles

Last reviewed: March 2026 — ATOM LED technical team, Telford, Shropshire. Specifications current as of 2026.

🏭 UK LED specialist, Telford, Shropshire  ·  ☎️ 01952 370028  ·  🚚 Free UK delivery on 97% of products