Waterproof LED strip lights are not simply differentiated by IP rating alone — their protective performance is also closely tied to the encapsulation materials and waterproofing manufacturing processes used. Different materials vary in terms of waterproofing capability, flexibility, heat dissipation, and environmental suitability, making each better suited to specific application scenarios. The following illustrates the side profiles and thickness specifications of IP20, IP65, IP67, and IP68 strip lights:

IP65 Protection Level Types

IP65 is the most widely used waterproof rating on the market, primarily designed for environments exposed to moisture and water spray. It is available in three common construction forms:

Surface Coating (Drip-Applied Resin): Waterproof on the surface, with no protective treatment on the back. This is the most common IP65-rated product available on the market.

LW Lighting uses anti-yellowing adhesive in its coating process. Standard adhesives are prone to yellowing within just a few months of use. Please refer to the images below for reference.

• Duration of submersion: Even IP68-rated products are not designed for prolonged continuous immersion. The standard laboratory test involves submerging the strip in one meter of water for a minimum of 30 minutes without damage. Extended submersion — such as 30 days — may still result in water ingress and product failure.

• Water depth limitations: Laboratory testing is conducted at a depth of one meter only. If the installation environment exceeds this depth, hydrostatic pressure becomes a factor — the deeper the water, the greater the pressure, which may compromise the waterproof seal. In such cases, IP68 strips specifically rated for deep-water environments should be specified (consult the manufacturer for detailed parameters in advance).

• Water type considerations: Fresh water — such as in swimming pools and fountains — has relatively low corrosive impact on strip lights. Saltwater environments — such as docks and coastal installations — contain salt that corrodes metal components and sealants. For these applications, corrosion-resistant IP68 strips should be selected, such as those featuring stainless steel connectors and salt-resistant silicone encapsulation, to avoid premature failure.

• Adhesive and material selection: For the encapsulation adhesive used in IP65, IP67, and IP68 strip lights, silicone-based anti-yellowing adhesives with high and low temperature resistance are strongly recommended — such as the anti-yellowing adhesive used by LW Lighting. Standard adhesives should be avoided, as they are prone to yellowing and cracking over time, ultimately compromising waterproof integrity.

• Balancing heat dissipation and waterproofing: Higher IP ratings — such as IP68 solid silicone resin filling — can impede heat dissipation. For higher-wattage strip lights (e.g., 14.4W per meter or above), construction methods with superior thermal performance should be considered, such as IP68 neon extrusion, to prevent LED degradation and shortened service life caused by inadequate heat management.