Rating of the best backlit skirting boards for 2022

Nowadays, there are many variations of decoration, allowing you to make any room beautiful and functional. The installation of skirting boards (baguettes, fillets) with lighting can be attributed to individual elements of such work. This option will qualitatively facilitate the implementation of most design decisions, so there is no need to install a false plasterboard box. However, to equip ceiling and floor plinths with lighting, you will need to perform different, not the most simple, actions.

Advantages of backlit baguettes

Luminous backlit skirting boards have a large number of advantages, which include:

• The combination of two functions in one piece of decoration - decoration and camouflage;
• Fast and, by and large, simple installation;
• Illumination concealment - luminous elements are hidden from the human eye, and a person can observe only a diffuse and soft glow;
• The materials for the manufacture of such fillets allow their use for various artistic directions in the interior;
• Luminous skirting boards will help to qualitatively place accents in the room and substitute the light for those objects that need to be highlighted;
• They will help to visually adjust the room space, for example, visually giving the ceilings a greater height;
• They can be used as night lighting of the room (night lamp) in the dark.

In addition to these advantages, luminous baguettes have one more additional advantage - they are very easy to mount on your own.For installation, you can purchase a ready-made version with installed LEDs, or you can assemble the entire structure in parts.

Structurally, the considered products consist of the following elements:

• Plinth with internal hollow sections;
• LED strip;
• Power supply unit;
• Managing controller.

By bringing all of the above parts together and connecting the entire structure to the mains, you can get a full-fledged lighting device with a soft color or white glow.

Light sources for skirting boards

The modern market can offer several variations of sources, but professionals consider the use of an LED strip to be the most optimal. Its features include:

• Elasticity and flexibility - in such sources, LEDs are installed on a small tape, which is standardly sold immediately in bays of at least 5 meters;
• Large color range and brightness - the presence of these options will allow you to set the original play of light, which can be adjusted using a special control panel;
• Easy installation - fastening is very simple - the tape can be simply attached to the plinth with adhesive tape from the wrong side.

However, not only LED strip can be used as a source. One of the options may be neon lighting, which is structurally a small-diameter tube filled with gas, at the ends of which electrodes are soldered. Unlike LEDs, which have gaps between them on the tape, a neon tube will provide a solid glow without gaps. Visually, a similar source will look richer both on the floor and on the ceiling.In addition, the neon version has good characteristics and illuminates the entire space with greater efficiency, while not particularly heating up and consuming slightly less electricity.

It is possible to integrate not only white light sources into a baguette with neon or LED illumination. The market can offer a fairly wide palette of different colors for every taste. Multi-colored bulbs will emit a soft and unobtrusive light of a set shade, which, if desired, can be changed from the remote control, making it more friendly or intimate.

In addition to a neon tube or LED strip, spotlights with a directional glow can also be integrated into the fillet. They are placed at the same distance from each other, they are able to emit light in the right direction (on the wall and on the floor at the same time or only in one specific angle). Thus, it is possible to obtain a certain decorative effect by highlighting only selected interior objects. Usually, a control controller is attached to any light source, by means of which the backlight is turned on / off, the color of the lighting alternates, and the light brightness changes.

Ceiling products

Professional designers believe that the correct placement of lighting sources is the key to transforming even the most boring interior. Therefore, illuminated ceiling fillets have become permanent elements of many modern design styles. In addition, this option, in addition to a decorative role, also performs a practical one, being a source of lighting.

For ceiling lighting, two methods are used:

1. For work, special baguettes are used, which have a niche for integrating the tape.They look like semicircular or square objects that can only be attached to a wall surface. This option can be sold ready-made, however, for greater efficiency of all lighting, it is preferable to perform their independent installation. Some problems may arise during the connection of a pair of adjacent parts, but this can all be solved by soldering the tape itself. The main feature of such products is that they are installed at some distance from the ceiling, but due to their special shape, they create a visual illusion of completeness.
2. Another way seems somewhat simple and does not differ in any sophistication. For installation, a standard traditional baguette is used, which is simply mounted at a small distance directly from the ceiling. In the resulting gap, a light source will be laid. However, this option has a significant disadvantage - the sources will be visually noticeable, which can significantly weaken the lighting effect.

From this it is clear that for each specific situation it will be necessary to select the material of production. At the same time, it should be borne in mind that ceiling plinths with LED lighting must fully comply with fire safety requirements. Therefore, it is better to give preference to products made of PVC, polystyrene or polyurethane.

IMPORTANT! You should always pay attention to the light transmission of all the details of the baguette. The best fillets are products that do not have special transparency.

Floor products

It will be much easier to pick up a plinth for placing a floor-mounted LED strip, because in most cases it already has a groove for installing a light source.For floor models, the following materials can be distinguished:

• PVC model - is the most popular material with many textures. The cost of this type is relatively low, which makes it affordable for any buyer. The PVC element has a special insert into which the tape is integrated.
• Wooden model - is considered a classic version, but has a considerable cost. Professionals call this material not very suitable for lighting installation, noting its increased flammability.
• Polyurethane model - such a material is increasingly gaining popularity for the finish in question. It is characterized by the presence of all the necessary qualities so that the LED strip works without problems. Very often, light sources are attached directly to the top of the baguette, which requires some accuracy and caution.
• Aluminum model - this variety is preferred by most master designers. Aluminum plinth looks great, and also allows you to install in an extremely short time. However, it has a number of features, for example, a very high price, and its installation is possible only on a fully prepared wall base.

IMPORTANT! Any of these options can be equipped with a light source on your own, but if you don’t want to mess around with soldering the tape and connecting electrical wires, then you can always purchase a completely ready-made system.

Features of mounting skirting boards with lighting

The whole procedure is not particularly difficult, however, for ceiling and floor options it is different.

Fixing the ceiling option

To do this, follow the following work steps:

• Due to the fact that the placement of the light source will be located directly behind the part, the plinth must be glued at some distance from the ceiling. The distance will depend on what result you want to get. It must be remembered that small spaces will require fastening the fillet at a minimum distance and with a small gap.
• All finished models have a large part that is attached to the wall, because the fixation is made only on this surface. If standard baguettes are being installed, then they are chosen taking into account this feature.
• Fasteners are made directly on the coating itself, which does not have decoration. Thus, wallpapering, for example, should be carried out upon completion of the installation of a backlit skirting board;
• For fixing, you need to choose a strong adhesive composition, which can be quick-drying glue or putty with the addition of PVA;
• Finished models will require soldering adjacent parts. Self-laying the tape involves the development of an installation scheme and careful planning of all work.

IMPORTANT! If a neon tube is used for lighting, then its installation will require certain skills and tools, therefore, it is preferable to entrust such work to a professional.

Fixing the floor version

For floor models, the following steps are provided:

• First of all, it is necessary to carry out preliminary calculations that will help to establish the exact amount of consumables needed.
• It is better to purchase those options that have reliably shielded grooves. In principle, it is better to overpay a little, but not bring it to a situation where the transparent panel will fall out with a relatively small vibration of the base.
• It is best to attach the backlit skirting board to the flooring with dowels or self-tapping screws. Quite convenient may seem to be options in which the front part simply snaps onto the mounting plate.
• If trimming is needed, then it is better to do it with a hacksaw for metal. However, it will be important to pay attention to the tape if it is already installed in the structure. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Fundamentals of safe operation of illuminated skirting boards

In order for this plinth to last as long as possible, you need to follow a couple of simple recommendations:

• Never mount illuminated baguettes in bathrooms and in general in rooms with high humidity. Naturally, there are models with reliable insulation of the entire case and even the LEDs themselves, but the risk is not worth it.
• The process of selecting and highlighting skirting boards should be approached as seriously and carefully as possible, while saving on trifles is not worth it.
• To ensure a full level of safety, only original adapters for supplying electricity should be used.

Classic consequences of non-compliance with safety rules:

• It is possible to ignite the plinth, which will lead to a general fire;
• With excessive heating of PVC products, the released decomposition products will be very toxic. It is dangerous for both people and pets.

Difficulties of choice

Most professionals recommend deciding on the following criteria when buying LED skirting boards:

• Production material - the best materials in this regard are polyurethane for ceiling options and aluminum for floor options. An illuminated aluminum floor skirting board will provide proper reliability, safety and can withstand strong mechanical impacts.Polyurethane ceiling models are light in weight, do not support combustion and look very presentable in appearance, which determines their wide popularity in ceiling structures.
• Visual design - for floor options, this criterion is less important, because their designs are not very different from each other. But for ceiling models, the design will become the cornerstone that will determine the entire style of the room, because. may have different patterns and shapes on the outer bar.
• Dimensions and dimensions - this indicator is also more important for ceiling moldings, because it involves a systemic placement. It is extremely important that there is enough space inside the cavity to accommodate the lighting sources. The preferred option would be large options with a semicircular shape. This way it will be possible to create a uniform light reflection, coupled with a very attractive visual effect.
• General quality - cheap models should not be used not only because of their unpresentable appearance, but also for safety reasons. It must be remembered that there is an electrical source of danger in the object (even if it is low-voltage), but there is no point in saving on it. It is better to purchase a source more expensive, but with an increased degree of security.

Rating of the best backlit skirting boards for 2022

floor samples

4th place: "Decor-Dizayn shockproof moisture resistant for painting 100X21X2000 mm DD41"

This model is characterized by moisture resistance and impact resistance. Made of polystyrene and designed for indoor use. Recommended for placement in rooms with both normal and high humidity (offices, bathrooms, corridors, living rooms, bedrooms and children's rooms, kitchens). It is characterized by simple installation and the ability to change color. Installation is carried out using mounting glue (liquid nails). Any paint can be used - on an acrylic, water or alkyd basis. For uniform painting, it is better to use an airbrush. It is placed in the corners of rooms with a 45-degree cut. The recommended cost for retail chains is 840 rubles.

• Environmental friendliness and safety;
• Increased impact resistance;
• Complete moisture resistance.

• Not detected.

3rd place: "Ecopolymer 100x21, 2000mm AGIS EP011"

This baguette is produced in the original white color, however, it can be painted with any type of paint. The product is made of high quality polystyrene, characterized by increased density. The case itself has a small mass and is convenient for laying LED strip. The installation procedure is not difficult. Installation is possible for any premises. The recommended cost for retail chains is 890 rubles.

• Easy installation;
• Accommodation is possible in any room;
• Adequate cost.

• Not detected.

2nd place: "WALLSTYL (2000x80x23 mm; white) NMC IL10"

The manufacturer positions this model as specially designed for laying LED strips. It is the ideal solution for creative lighting design. Produced lighting can be either direct or reflected from walls and ceilings. Perhaps a spectacular design of the space, taking into account the play of light and shadows. The design does not use fluorine, it is completely non-toxic.The surface of the product is characterized by smoothness and evenness, it can be easily coated with water-dispersion paints. The recommended cost for retail stores is 2480 rubles.

• Light coating of paint;
• High-quality execution of the entire surface;
• Effective creation of lighting design;
• Does not require pre-priming.

• Not detected.

1st place: "NMC FL2 flex (2000x120x15 mm; white)"

This sample is made on a two-component basis - the base material is made of polyurethane, and the material of the upper layer is high-density polystyrene. It is completely non-toxic, the surface of the top layer is absolutely smooth and can be easily covered with water-dispersion paints without any preliminary primer. Ideal for rounded design elements such as arches or columns. The recommended cost for retail store chains is 4800 rubles.

• Specially designed to decorate rounded elements;
• No toxicity in the material;
• Increased elasticity.

• Very high cost.

Ceiling samples

4th place: "IL3 Wallstyle NMC"

This sample was produced in Belgium using innovative technology. The basis is a reinforced version of polystyrene. Also included is an LED strip. Features a simplified installation procedure. If necessary, the LED strip can be replaced with a neon tube. It is possible to mount at any distance from the ceiling base. The recommended cost for retail chains is 210 rubles.

• Installation variability;
• LED strip included;
• budget cost.

• Not detected.

3rd place: "(KX)K045 Cosca cornice ceiling plinth for recessed lighting from ecopolymer"

This product is made of highly environmentally friendly polymer and is non-toxic. It is possible to mount on any surface, up to unprepared walls. The scattering of light from the installed sources occurs evenly, but it is not possible to set the direction. The installation of both the skirting board itself and the installation of lighting sources in it are not particularly difficult. The recommended cost for retail chains is 405 rubles.

• Extremely reasonable price tag;
• Use of environmentally friendly material;
• Variation in the use of light sources.

• Not detected.

2nd place: "Decor-Dizayn shockproof moisture resistant for LED backlighting 100X55X2000 mm DD507"

This ceiling cornice from a Russian manufacturer is moisture and impact resistant, but is designed exclusively to accommodate LED lighting (neon tubes are not recommended). Perfectly will be suitable for interior furnish of rooms with the usual and high degree of humidity and pollution. Installation of the product is very simple and it is possible to use PVA-based glue or liquid nails for it. Painting can be done with any type of paint - from dispersion to acrylic or alkyd. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1000 rubles.

• Easy installation;
• Easy operation.
• Adequate cost.

• Placement of neon tubes is not recommended.

1st place: "KC304 Leptonika LED cornice molding for concealed lighting made of styrofoam"

This ceiling cornice is fully adapted to most design solutions in the field of lighting design. Scattering of light can be made both directional and divergent. Country of origin - Belgium. The cornice itself is made of impact-resistant polystyrene and is very easy to install. It is allowed to integrate neon tubes as a light source. It may well be the best solution in terms of price and quality. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1635 rubles.

• Adequate cost;
• Reliable manufacturing material;
• Light direction adjustable.

• Not detected.

Instead of an epilogue

The analysis of the market of the materials under consideration has established that it is not so easy to find certain types of ceiling skirting boards. This is especially true for models that can work with neon tubes. Regarding the presented manufacturers, they are equally (both Russian and foreign) located in all price categories. It is gratifying to note that domestic products are in no way inferior in quality to foreign ones, and their cost is much less than that of the latter. At the same time, it is worth noting that the unit of measure for all skirting boards is a running meter; it is simply impossible to find versions with solid long dies for sale. The standard plate length is 2 meters.Summing up, it must be said that it is better to entrust the installation process to a professional, especially when it comes to installing neon lighting sources.