How to Install Slat Wall Panels with Built-in LED Lighting

November 11, 2024

Introduction

Slat walls make fantastic feature walls—they look stylish and modern. But what if you could make them even more striking? In this guide, we'll show you how to supercharge your slat wall with built-in LED lighting using Blaq Aura.

Materials Needed

A list of all materials and tools required for the project.

        Materials:
            Slat wall panels (compatible with 13mm wide and 8mm deep gaps)
            Blaq Aura LED lighting kit

        Tools:
            Tape measure
            Pencil
            Straight edge
            Circular saw with finishing blade
            Level
            Staple gun
            Sandpaper
            Drill with appropriate bits
            Adhesive suitable for wall panels (avoid adhesives that skin over)

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Slat Wall Panels

Measure the height from the top of the skirting board to the bottom of the coving at multiple points along the wall to ensure accuracy.
Mark your measurements on the panels, ensuring cuts are made at the bottom to minimise visibility of any imperfections.
Use a straight edge to draw cutting lines and a circular saw with a sharp finishing blade for clean cuts.

Measure the height from the top of the skirting board to the bottom of the coving at multiple points along the wall to ensure accuracy.

Use a straight edge to draw cutting lines and a circular saw with a sharp finishing blade for clean cuts.

Safety Precaution:

Wear safety goggles and gloves when operating the saw.

Step 2: Test Fit the First Panel

Place the first panel against the wall and use a level to check if it's plumb.
If the wall is not perfectly straight, you may notice gaps.
Option 1: Trim the felt on the panel edge to eliminate gaps.
Option 2: Use matte black paint on the wall to hide small gaps.

Place the first panel against the wall and use a level to check if it's plumb.

Trim the felt on the panel edge to eliminate gaps.

Step 3: Fix the Panels to the Wall

Apply a good quality contact adhesive to the back of the panel in small circles.
Avoid adhesives that skin over or harden quickly.
Carefully position the panel and press firmly against the wall.

Apply a good quality contact adhesive to the back of the panel in small circles.

Carefully position the panel and press firmly against the wall.

Safety Precaution:

Ensure the adhesive is suitable for your wall type and follow manufacturer instructions.

Step 4: Accommodate Sockets and Switches

Measure the position of any sockets or switches that intersect with panel placement.
Transfer measurements carefully to the panel.
Drill pilot holes at the corners of the marked area.
Use a jigsaw to cut out the section for the socket.
Sand the edges for a neat finish.
Optionally, bring sockets forward to be flush with the panel and wrap back boxes with black tape to hide them.

Safety Precaution:

Turn off electricity at the mains before working near electrical fixtures.
Consult a qualified electrician if unsure.

Step 5: Install Remaining Panels

Continue measuring, cutting, and fixing each panel, ensuring they align correctly.
For the last panel, measure the remaining width and cut the panel accordingly.
Check for plumb and make any necessary adjustments.

Continue measuring, cutting, and fixing each panel, ensuring they align correctly.

For the last panel, measure the remaining width and cut the panel accordingly.

Step 6: Install the Blaq Aura LED Lighting

Why Blaq Aura?

Blaq Aura is a sleek, matte black LED lighting system that remains nearly invisible during the day and illuminates elegantly at night.
Fits perfectly into slat walls with 13mm wide and 8mm deep gaps, compatible with panels from WoodVeneerHub, Charles and Ivy, B&Q, and more.

Blaq Aura is a sleek, matte black LED lighting system that remains nearly invisible during the day and illuminates elegantly at night.

Step 6a: Prepare the LED Strips

Measure the length required for each LED strip based on your slat wall height.
Cut the LED strips to length at the designated cut points every 20mm for precise fitting.
Ensure all strips are cut to the same length for uniform illumination.

Cut the LED strips to length at the designated cut points every 20mm for precise fitting.

Safety Precaution:

Unplug the power supply before cutting or handling the LED strips.

Step 6b: Install the LED Strips into the Slats

Starting from the top, press each LED strip into the chosen slat groove with the matte black side facing outward.
The built-in securement nodules will hold the strip firmly in place without the need for adhesives.
Repeat for all LED strips, spacing them evenly across the wall or as per your design preference.

Starting from the top, press each LED strip into the chosen slat groove with the matte black side facing outward.

Step 6c: Connect the Power Supply and Controller

Connect the interface to the power supply using the attached DC cable.
Attach the splitter cable to the output side of the interface.
Connect each LED strip to the splitter cable.
Hide the power supply and cables behind furniture or within wall cavities, ensuring they are not visible.

Safety Precaution:

CAUTION: Always unplug the power supply before connecting or adjusting any LED strips or accessories.
WARNING: Never connect LED strips directly to 240V mains voltage. This poses a fire risk.

Step 6d: Pairing the Remote Control and App Setup

Pairing the Remote Control:

Press and hold the brightness up and brightness down buttons on the interface simultaneously for 2 seconds until the LED strips flash twice.
Within 10 seconds, press the on/off button on your remote control. The strips will flash three times, indicating successful pairing.

Press and hold the brightness up and brightness down buttons on the interface simultaneously for 2 seconds until the LED strips flash twice.

Within 10 seconds, press the on/off button on your remote control. The strips will flash three times, indicating successful pairing.

Setting Up the App:

Download the Smart Life app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Create an account and sign in.
Ensure Bluetooth is turned on (Android users may need to adjust security settings to allow device searching).
Press and hold the on/off and Brightness+ buttons on the interface for 2 seconds to enter pairing mode; the LED strips will flash.
Follow the app instructions to complete the setup.

Press and hold the on/off and Brightness+ buttons on the interface for 2 seconds to enter pairing mode; the LED strips will flash.

Step 7: Test and Enjoy Your New Feature Wall

Turn on the LED strips using the remote, app or in-line controller to test the lighting.
Adjust brightness and settings to your preference.
Stand back and admire your new illuminated slat wall!

Troubleshooting Tips

LED Strip Does Not Light Up:

Check all connections and ensure the power supply is plugged in.
Verify that connectors are fully inserted and polarity is correct.
Sections of LED Strip Not Lit:
If sections in the centre are not lighting up, inspect for damage or incorrect cutting.
Handle the LED strips carefully to avoid twisting or pressing too hard.

LED Strip is Flashing:

This may indicate an overloaded power supply.
Ensure you have not exceeded the maximum wattage by connecting too many strips.

Remote Not Controlling LED Strip:

Re-pair the remote with the interface as described in Step 6d.

With your new slat wall and integrated Blaq Aura lighting, you've added a stunning focal point to your space. The nearly invisible LEDs provide elegant illumination that transforms your room at night.

Ready to enhance your own slat wall? Visit our Blaq Aura product page to get started. Our lighting system is compatible with leading slat wall brands and comes with a 5-year warranty for peace of mind.

Don't forget, you can expand your system with up to three additional Blaq Aura LED strips for even more impact.

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