LB32 Molding Polystyrene HIWOOD for backlighting 32.5mm x 24.0mm x 2.0mm.

Polystyrene moldingLB32 from the leading South Korean manufacturer Hi Wood is a specialized profile for organizing hidden LED backlighting measuring 32.5×24.0×2000 mm. This high-tech product made of high-density impact-resistant polystyrene is specifically designed for mounting LED strips and creating an effective decorative lighting in modern interiors.wall molding polystyreneThis model features a special construction with an internal shelf, which allows reliably hiding the LED strip and wiring, creating a visual effect of a floating ceiling or soft diffused lighting around the room perimeter.

Construction Features and Technical Specifications

Model LB32 has a specific L-shaped configuration, developed by Hi Wood engineers specifically for placing lighting equipment. The profile height is 32.5 mm, which provides sufficient space for installing LED strips of any power and allows creating even light distribution without visible spots. The shelf depth for placing LED strips is 24.0 mm — this is enough to completely hide the light source from direct view, while ensuring optimal light beam diffusion angle. The standard length of the product is 2000 mm, which simplifies material calculation and minimizes joints during installation around the room perimeter.

The material used is high-density polystyrene (durable polymer) — a modern thermoplastic polymer specially processed to increase mechanical strength. The material density is 600-650 kg/m³, which is 1.5 times higher than that of ordinary polystyrene foam. The weight of one profile is approximately 0.35-0.45 kg, which ensures that installation does not create critical load on walls and ceilings. The product is supplied in a snow-white color with a perfectly smooth surface, ready for painting with any water-based paints. The operating temperature range from -40 to +70°C allows using the profile in rooms with various climatic conditions.

Unique advantages of high-density polystyrene

Polystyrene impact-resistant wall moldingHi Wood model LB32 demonstrates outstanding operational characteristics. The material is completely waterproof and does not deform even with prolonged contact with water, making it ideal for installation in bathrooms, toilets, and kitchens with high humidity. Polystyrene does not absorb water, does not swell, and does not lose its shape, maintaining its original geometric parameters throughout its service life, which exceeds 10-15 years with proper use.

Impact-resistant polystyrene wall moldingIt has high resistance to ultraviolet radiation — the material does not yellow, fade, or lose its snow-white color even when installed opposite windows with intense sunlight. Thermal stability allows the profile to withstand heating from LED strips without deformation or odor emission. Antistatic properties prevent dust accumulation on the surface, which is especially important when organizing backlighting — a dirty surface may create shadows and uneven light distribution.

The mechanical strength of the dural polymer exceeds that of ordinary polystyrene foam by 3-4 times. The material is resistant to accidental impacts and pressure, does not crumble during processing, and does not form chips at the ends during cutting. The surface is coated with a special high-hardness protective layer that protects the product from scratches and damage during transportation and installation. Biological resistance prevents the appearance of mold, fungi, and microorganism proliferation even in humid environments. The material is chemically neutral, does not emit harmful substances, and is completely safe for human health.

Organizing hidden lighting: principles and possibilities

polystyrene molding on the wallLB32 opens up limitless possibilities for creating modern decorative lighting systems. Hidden backlighting using LED technology has become one of the main trends in interior design in recent years. The effect of a floating ceiling, soft contour lighting, creating light accents and zoning space — all of this is easily achieved with a backlighting profile.

The principle of operation of hidden lighting is based on the fact that the LED strip is placed inside the profile on a special shelf and directs the light beam toward the ceiling or wall, from where it reflects and evenly diffuses throughout the room. In this case, the light source remains invisible to the eye, creating an effect of the surface glowing from within. Such lighting not only looks beautiful but also has practical advantages: absence of glare, even light distribution, and the ability to adjust brightness and color temperature.

Using the LB32 profile, you can create main room lighting, completely eliminating traditional chandeliers and lamps. For this purpose, a powerful LED strip of 14-20 W/m is used, which provides illumination of 150-200 lux per square meter. Decorative lighting is created using a lower-power strip of 4.8-9.6 W/m and is used to create a cozy atmosphere in the evening. Low-power night lighting of 2.4-4.8 W/m can be used as orientation lighting during nighttime.

Multi-functional use in interior design

buy polystyrene moldingLB32 model is suitable for implementing the most diverse design solutions. The most popular application is creating contour backlighting along the ceiling perimeter, which visually increases the room's height and gives it a sense of lightness. The profile is mounted on the wall at a distance of 10-15 cm from the ceiling, and the LED strip is placed inside, directed upward. The reflected light from the ceiling creates an effect of a floating surface and softly illuminates the entire room.

Zonal lighting allows highlighting functional areas within a single space. For example, in a studio apartment, a light box can be used to mark the boundary between the kitchen and living room, in a bedroom to designate a reading zone, in a child's room to separate play and study areas. Changing the color and brightness of backlighting in different zones enhances the effect of space division.

Accent lighting is used to highlight architectural elements, decorative niches, columns, arches, bay windows. A profile with backlighting can be installed along the contours of decorative panels on walls, around mirrors, paintings, photo galleries. Accent lighting on multi-level ceilings looks especially effective, as each level is highlighted by a light contour. Backlighting for staircases, podiums, and podium zones is also performed using profiles for LED strips.

Lighting for work areas in the kitchen, office, workshop can be organized using a profile installed under wall-mounted cabinets or shelves. Such backlighting provides quality illumination of the work surface without shadows or glare. In closets and wardrobe cabinets, a profile with backlighting helps quickly find needed items. In the bathroom, backlighting for mirrors, shower cabins, and cosmetic niches makes the room more functional and stylish.

Choosing LED strips and accessories

To ensure proper operation of the hidden lighting system, it is important to correctly select the LED strip and auxiliary equipment. LED strips differ by voltage (12V, 24V, 220V), power (from 2.4 to 48 W per meter), LED density (30, 60, 120, 240 LEDs per meter), color (warm white 2700-3000K, neutral white 4000-4500K, cool white 6000-6500K, RGB multi-color), and water resistance rating (IP20 for dry rooms, IP65 for humid rooms, IP67-68 for outdoors).

For main lighting in residential rooms, it is recommended to use a strip with power of 14-20 W/m and LED density of 120-240 LEDs/m, which will provide bright, even light without visible spots. Color temperature is selected depending on the room's purpose: for bedrooms, living rooms, children's rooms, warm white 2700-3000K is suitable, for kitchens, bathrooms, offices — neutral 4000K, for utility rooms, garages — cool 6000K. For decorative lighting, a strip of 9.6-14 W/m with density of 60-120 LEDs/m is sufficient.

The power supply is selected based on the total power of all connected strips with a 20-30% reserve. For example, if the total length of the strip is 20 meters and the power is 14 W/m, the total power is 280 W, therefore, a 350-400 W power supply is needed. It is important to choose quality power supplies with overload and short-circuit protection. For humid rooms, the power supply must have a sealed housing with IP65 protection rating.

Dimmer (brightness regulator) allows adjusting the lighting intensity from 0 to 100%, creating the desired atmosphere at different times of day. RGB strip controller enables selecting any color from the palette and programming various lighting scenes. Remote control simplifies working with the lighting system, allowing adjustment of all parameters without getting up from the sofa. Smart lighting control systems integrate with the overall "smart home" system and can be controlled by voice or schedule.

Professional installation of LB32 profile

If you decidedBuy polystyrene molding for wallFor organizing hidden backlighting, it is important to know all nuances of proper installation. Installation of LB32 profile has its own features compared to ordinary decorative moldings, as it requires precise calculation of distance from the ceiling and correct positioning to achieve the desired lighting effect.

The preparatory stage begins with developing a layout for the backlighting. It is necessary to determine where the power supply unit will be placed, how the wiring will be run, where the switches or dimmers will be located. All electrical work must be completed before installing the profile. On walls, locations for installing distribution boxes are marked, grooves for wires are cut, or cable channels are provided. The wall surface at the installation points of the profile must be flat, clean, and dry. Significant unevenness exceeding 5 mm per meter must be eliminated with spackling.

The calculation of distance from the ceiling depends on the desired effect. For creating a wide light strip and bright main lighting, the profile is installed at a distance of 12-15 cm from the ceiling. For moderate decorative backlighting, 8-10 cm is sufficient. When installing closer than 5 cm, individual LEDs may be visible, creating uneven lighting. If the ceiling has a textured surface or a stretch ceiling with noticeable texture, the distance should be increased to 15-20 cm for better light diffusion.

Marking is done using a laser level or hydrolevel to ensure perfect horizontal alignment. A control line is marked around the perimeter of the room, along which the installation will be performed. Material allowance must be provided at corners for precise fitting. Cutting the profile is done using a miter box and fine-toothed hacksaw or a circular saw. For corner joints, a 45-degree cut is made. After cutting, the ends are processed with fine sandpaper to remove burrs.

The mounting adhesive must be specifically designed for polystyrene — universal mounting adhesives of the "liquid nails" type on a polymer base without solvents. The adhesive is applied in dots or dashed lines on the back of the profile with a spacing of 10-15 cm. After applying the adhesive, the profile is pressed against the wall along the marked line and held for 30-60 seconds. For secure fixation during adhesive drying, painter’s tape or temporary supports can be used. Joints between adjacent profiles must be as tight as possible; gaps over 1 mm are not allowed.

Features of cutting and corner joints

Questionhow to cut polystyrene moldingfor backlighting requires special attention, since the LB32 profile has a complex L-shaped form. For straight cuts, a fine-toothed hacksaw for metal or a special polystyrene hacksaw with a 1-1.5 mm tooth is used. An electric jigsaw with a plastic blade also gives good results, but requires care to avoid damaging the thin profile elements. A circular saw with a plastic blade is the ideal tool for a clean cut, especially for large volumes of work.

How to cut polystyrene moldingfor corner joints? Use a professional miter box that allows for precise 45-degree cuts. When creating internal corners (e.g., in a room corner), both profiles are cut at 45° so that when joined, they form a 90° right angle. For external corners (e.g., on a protruding column), cuts are made in a mirrored direction. It is important to note that the L-shaped profile requires careful attention to cutting direction — an error will result in mismatched parts.

After cutting, all ends are processed with fine sandpaper grit 180-240 to remove burrs and irregularities. This ensures tight fitting of parts at joints. When connecting corner elements, a small amount of adhesive is applied to the ends, parts are pressed together, and secured with painter’s tape until the adhesive fully dries (usually 12-24 hours). Small gaps in corner joints are filled with white acrylic sealant, which is sanded smooth after drying.

Installing LED strip in the profile

After installing the profile and the adhesive has fully dried, you can proceed with installing the LED strip. Before starting, check the strip’s functionality by connecting it to the power supply. The back side of a quality LED strip has an adhesive layer with a protective film. However, experienced electricians recommend additionally using special aluminum profiles or thermal tape for better heat dissipation, especially when using powerful strips of 14 W/m or more.

An aluminum profile for LED strip is a narrow groove 10-20 mm wide, mounted on the inner flange of the molding. The profile serves several functions: it dissipates heat from LEDs, extending their lifespan; ensures even strip placement without sagging; protects the strip from mechanical damage; allows using a diffuser for more uniform light. The profile is mounted using double-sided tape or special clip holders.

Laying the strip begins at the power supply connection point. The protective film on the adhesive side is removed gradually, 30-40 cm at a time, and the strip is carefully pressed against the profile’s surface or directly onto the molding’s flange. It is important not to stretch the strip — it should lie freely without tension. When passing corners, do not bend the strip at sharp angles — this may damage the conductive traces. In corners, the strip is cut at specially marked locations (usually every 5-10 cm there is a scissors mark) and connected using special connectors or soldering.

Connecting segments of the strip can be done in two ways. Connectors — are special snap or screw-type connectors that do not require soldering and allow quick assembly of the system. However, they create additional resistance points and may oxidize over time. Soldering — is a more reliable method, ensuring stable contact. For soldering, a low-power soldering iron (25-40 W), solder, and flux are used. Soldered joints are insulated with heat-shrink tubing or electrical tape.

Connecting the strip to the power supply is done with polarity: red wire to positive (+), black or blue to negative (-). Incorrect polarity will cause the strip to not light up, but will not damage it — simply swap the wires. The power supply is connected to 220V network through an automatic switch of appropriate rating. All connections must be securely insulated, and the power supply should be placed in a ventilated area inaccessible to moisture.

Final finishing and painting

All joints between adjacent profile elements are filled with white acrylic sealant. The sealant is applied with a caulking gun in a thin line, then smoothed with a damp rubber putty knife or finger. Excess is immediately wiped away with a damp sponge. After the sealant dries (12-24 hours), joints are sanded with fine sandpaper to perfect smoothness, making joints invisible.

Polystyrene moldingLB32 can be used in its original white color or painted in any desired shade. Suitable paints include acrylic, water-emulsion, and latex paints on water-based bases. Absolutely do not use paints based on organic solvents (nitro paints, alkyd enamels) — they destroy polystyrene. Before painting, it is recommended to prime the profile surface with acrylic primer to improve paint adhesion.

Painting is done with a brush, roller, or spray gun in two to three coats with intermediate drying of each layer for 4-6 hours. When using a spray gun, it is important to ensure that paint does not get onto the LED strip inside the profile — this will reduce backlight brightness. You can preliminarily cover the internal cavity of the profile with painter’s tape or paper. Some designers use contrasting painting: the outer surface of the profile is painted to match the wall color, while the inner part is painted white or metallic to better reflect light.

Decorative effects can be created using special painting techniques. Patination — applying contrasting paint to protruding parts of the profile and then blending it — creates an effect of noble antiquity. Metalization using paints with gold, silver, or bronze effects gives the interior a luxurious look. Pearl and fluorescent paints create special lighting effects when the backlight is on. Two-tone painting with a clear boundary allows highlighting the architectural shape of the profile.

Operation and maintenance of the backlighting system

A hidden lighting system based on the LB32 profile does not require complex maintenance, but following simple operational rules will extend the lifespan of all components. LED strips from quality manufacturers have a lifespan of 30-50 thousand hours, which corresponds to 10-15 years of use at 8 hours per day. However, the actual lifespan largely depends on operating conditions, primarily the temperature regime. Overheating LEDs shortens their life and reduces brightness.

To ensure normal temperature regime, ventilation must be provided. When using powerful strips of 14-20 W/m, aluminum radiator profiles must be used for heat dissipation. The power supply must be placed in a ventilated area; it cannot be covered with dense materials or placed in enclosed niches without air exchange. Overloading the power supply (connecting strips with total power exceeding the unit’s rating) leads to overheating and failure.

Cleaning the profile from dust is done with a soft dry cloth or special anti-static wipes for plastic. It is recommended to wipe the surface every 3-6 months with a slightly damp sponge and a small amount of mild detergent. Abrasive cleaners, stiff brushes, and solvents must not be used — they may damage the painted surface. The interior cavity of the profile, where the LED strip is located, also needs periodic cleaning from dust, as dirt reduces the efficiency of the lighting.

In case of malfunction in the lighting, the first thing to check is the power supply. Lack of illumination may be caused by a switched-off switch, tripped circuit breaker, or faulty power supply unit. If only part of the strip lights up, there may be a soldering joint break or damage to the strip. Uneven illumination with brighter areas at the beginning and dimmer areas at the end indicates voltage drop along the long strip — power must be connected from both ends or an additional amplifier must be installed. Flickering light is usually associated with a low-quality power supply or dimmer.

Lighting design and lighting scenarios

The LB32 profile allows implementing various lighting scenarios, creating different atmospheres in the room. The basic scenario — bright ambient lighting — is used during daytime and active hours. The white strip is turned on at maximum brightness, providing comfortable illumination for all activities. The evening scenario involves reducing brightness to 50-70% and possibly switching to a warmer color temperature, creating a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.

Night mode uses minimum brightness of 5-10% as orientation lighting. Such lighting allows safe movement around the apartment at night without turning on bright lights that may interfere with falling asleep. For night mode, it is better to use warm white or even amber light, which minimally affects melatonin production. The festive scenario activates RGB lighting with dynamic effects, color changes, and smooth transitions, creating a festive mood.

Combined scenarios involve independent control of lighting in different zones of the room. For example, in the living room, you can brightly illuminate the sofa and TV area while keeping the dining area dimly lit. In the bedroom, you can create bright lighting in the wardrobe area and soft light above the bed for reading. Automatic scenarios controlled by motion or light sensors include turning on lighting upon entering the room or when natural light drops below a set level.

Color therapy uses RGB lighting to create a specific psycho-emotional state. Blue and light blue colors calm, relieve tension, and are suitable for relaxation and meditation. Green color harmonizes, reduces eye fatigue, and is beneficial when working at a computer. Yellow and orange colors invigorate, improve mood, and stimulate creative activity. Red color activates and boosts energy, but is not recommended for prolonged exposure. Smooth color transitions create a dynamic atmosphere and prevent monotony.

Combination with other decorative elements

The LB32 profile combines beautifully with other decorative items from the Hi Wood assortment and the Stavros company. The most harmonious combination is achieved by using profiles from the same collection or similar style. Ceiling perimeter lighting pairs well with floor baseboards from the same manufacturer — creating a unified stylistic solution from floor to ceiling. Wall moldings can be used to create decorative panels, which can also be illuminated with LED strips.

Multi-level lighting is created by installing profiles at different heights. For example, the main perimeter ceiling lighting is supplemented by lower lighting along the floor perimeter or baseboards. This solution creates a volumetric lighting design and allows independent control of upper and lower lighting. Mid-level lighting at a height of 1-1.5 meters can be used to highlight decorative panels, gallery walls, or display shelves with collections.

Combining open moldings with hidden lighting creates especially effective interiors. Ceiling rose fixtures, decorative panels, pilasters, and moldings are installed in the center of the ceiling or on walls, while a hidden lighting profile is mounted along the perimeter. Light reflected from the ceiling beautifully highlights the relief of the molding elements, creating a play of light and shadow. Additional lighting of the molding elements with spotlights or directional spotlights enhances the volumetric effect.

Economic efficiency of the solution

Investments in a hidden lighting system based on the LB32 profile pay off due to several factors. The cost of polystyrene profiles is significantly lower than analogs made of polyurethane or plaster with comparable decorative properties. The lightweight nature of the products reduces transportation costs and simplifies installation, which can be done independently without hiring specialists. Savings on electrician and finishing contractor services during self-installation can amount to 30-50% of material costs.

Operational costs for LED lighting are minimal. The power consumption of LED strips is 8-10 times lower than traditional light sources at comparable luminous efficacy. For lighting a 20 m² room, 15-20 meters of 14 W/m strip are sufficient, totaling 210-280 W. With daily use of 6 hours, monthly consumption will be 37-50 kWh, costing 185-250 rubles at an average electricity price of 5 rubles per kWh. For comparison, lighting the same room with incandescent lamps would require 300-400 kWh or 1500-2000 rubles per month.

LED lifespan of 30-50,000 hours means that with daily use of 6 hours, the system will operate for 14-23 years without replacing light sources. The polystyrene profile will retain its properties, not yellow or deform during this time. Traditional incandescent lamps would need to be replaced 30-50 times during this period, fluorescent lamps — 5-10 times. Savings on lamp replacement and associated work are substantial, especially in high ceilings, where replacing lamps requires a ladder or hiring a specialist.

Increased property value is another economic benefit of quality lighting design. A modern hidden lighting system makes the interior more attractive and functional, positively affecting property valuation during sales or rentals. According to real estate agents, a well-designed lighting system can increase apartment value by 3-7%, which, at average property prices, far exceeds the cost of the lighting system.

Application in various interior styles

The versatility of the LB32 profile allows its use in interiors of any stylistic direction. In modern minimalism, hidden lighting emphasizes the simplicity of forms and purity of lines. The white profile blends with the wall, leaving only soft glow visible. Using cool white light at 6000K enhances the feeling of modernity and technology. RGB lighting with color-changing capability adds interactivity and allows quickly changing the interior’s mood.

In Scandinavian style, where abundance of light and light tones are valued, perimeter ceiling lighting enhances the feeling of spaciousness and airiness. Warm white light at 2700-3000K creates a cozy atmosphere, compensating for the lack of sunlight in northern latitudes. Combining hidden lighting with large windows and light finishes makes the room maximally bright and comfortable. Natural materials — wood, stone, textiles — look beautiful under soft diffused light.

Classic and neoclassical interiors also benefit from using modern lighting technologies. The LB32 profile can be painted in wall colors or contrasting tones — gold, silver, bronze — creating the effect of classical molding. Lighting highlights architectural elements — cornices, moldings, ceiling rose fixtures, columns. Combining modern LED technology with classic decorative forms creates an interesting synthesis of traditions and innovations.

Loft and industrial styles require lighting for zoning open spaces. Perimeter lighting can highlight functional zones, emphasize the texture of brick walls, concrete surfaces, and exposed utilities. Using RGB lighting with saturated colors creates a modern urban atmosphere. The profile can be painted in dark colors — gray, graphite, black — or left white for contrast against dark walls.

Partnership with Hi Wood and quality guarantees

Hi Wood, a company from South Korea, is a recognized leader in producing decorative elements from high-density polystyrene. Over 20 years of experience, in-house scientific research laboratories, and advanced manufacturing technologies ensure unparalleled product quality. All Hi Wood products undergo multi-stage quality control, guaranteeing perfect geometry, smooth surface, and full compliance with stated specifications.

Stavros is the official distributor of Hi Wood in Russia and offers the full range of products from the Korean manufacturer. Direct deliveries from the manufacturer without intermediaries ensure competitive pricing and authenticity guarantees. Stavros’ assortment includes dozens of models of moldings, cornices, baseboards, decorative panels, columns, pilasters, and other high-density polystyrene elements, enabling the creation of a comprehensive interior decoration solution in a unified style.

Stavros’ technical support specialists help correctly select items for a specific project, calculate required material quantities, and provide installation and operation consultations. Flexible discount systems for designers, construction companies, and wholesale buyers make cooperation beneficial. Logistics network ensures delivery of products to any region of Russia within short timeframes. The possibility of returns and exchanges in case of defects or non-conformity to the order protects buyer interests.

Hi Wood Polystyrene Wall Molding LB32 — a professional solution for creating a modern hidden lighting system, combining high quality, functionality, aesthetics, and affordable price. The special profile construction ensures optimal LED strip placement and creates striking lighting scenarios. High-density impact-resistant polystyrene guarantees durability and stable parameters throughout the entire service life. Easy installation allows implementing the project independently, saving on specialist services. Universal application makes the profile suitable for any rooms and interior styles. Choosing Hi Wood products from the official partner Stavros ensures guaranteed quality, professional support, and the opportunity to create a truly unique interior with modern lighting design.