What’s the Difference Between Weatherproof and Waterproof for LED Strip?

June 7, 2024

Unlike the peaceful and mild indoors, the outdoors can be harsh. When you are looking for outdoor products, you often come across the terms "weatherproof" and "waterproof". They are essential for outdoor use.

So, what exactly do "weatherproof" and "waterproof" mean? Are there any differences between them?

If you are not clear about the definition of them, you could end up facing unnecessary losses.

What Does "Weatherproof" And "Waterproof" Mean?

Weatherproof

What does weatherproof mean: Capable of resisting damage caused by the weather.

Weatherproof LED strip:

Considering the level of protection indicated by IP ratings, weatherproof LED strip lights start at a rating of IP64, which means the led strip exterior is protected against dust, debris, and splashing water.

Waterproof

What does waterproof mean:

Resistant to the effects of water.
Made of or covered with material that doesn't allow water in.

Waterproof LED strip:

Covered in a heat-conducting epoxy or silicone or other materials to protect the circuitry from direct contact with water, and can be rated IP67, or IP68 with proper sealed connections.

Confused about the IP rating? Reach out to our blog now: 3 Steps to Choose Waterproof LED Strip Lights for Outdoor Use – PaneraLux

Differences Between Weatherproof, Waterproof

The key difference between weatherproof and waterproof materials lies in their level of protection against water. Weatherproof items resist mild conditions like rain or splashes, while waterproof items can withstand complete submersion without incurring damage.

Weatherproof VS. Waterproof: Quick Differentiating Chart
Criteria	Weatherproof	Waterproof
Protection Against	Light rain, water splash, dust, wind, regular weather conditions	Extreme weather, excessive moisture, submerged conditions/underwater
Coating	Powder coating, painting, stainless steel or corrosion-resistant aluminum	Silicone, PVC, PU(Polyurethane), PO(Polyolefin), Epoxy resin
Application	Outdoor lighting of commercial and residential spaces Pathway lighting Landscape Entryway lighting Outdoor signage lights	Contain all applications of weatherproof Pool lighting Fountain lighting Boat lighting Underwater areas Industrial lighting
IP Rating	IP44 to IP66 or higher	IP67 and IP68
Price	Lower than outdoor waterproof led strip lights About $150 for one 5m IP65 RGB LED strip	A bit higher than weatherproof lights $199 for one 5m IP68 RGB LED strip

1. Construction, Sealing, and Coating

Weatherproof: Powder coating, painting, stainless steel or corrosion-resistant aluminum

Waterproof: Silicone, PVC, PU(Polyurethane), PO(Polyolefin), Epoxy resin

How to Make LED Outdoor Light Strips Waterproof – Panera lux for those who want to know more about outdoor LED strip lights coating.

2. Protection Level

Weatherproof: Light rain, water splash, dust, wind, and regular weather conditions

Waterproof: Extreme weather, excessive moisture, submerged condition/underwater

3. Application

Weatherproof: Outdoor lighting of commercial and residential space, pathway lighting, landscape, entryway lighting, outdoor signage lights

Waterproof: Contain all applications of weatherproof, pool lighting, fountain lighting, boat lighting, underwater areas, industrial lighting

4. IP Rating

Weatherproof: IP44 to IP66 or higher

Waterproof: IP67 and IP68

5. Price

Weatherproof: Lower than waterproof lights, about $150 for one 5m IP65 RGB LED strip.
Waterproof: A bit higher than weatherproof lights, $199 for one 5m IP68 RGB LED strip .

Which Weatherproofing Or Waterproofing Level Suits You?

When deciding between weatherproof and waterproof LED strip lights, consider the product's application environment. Weatherproofing is fine for light rain, while waterproofing is vital for constant water exposure like marine or rainy environments.

Outdoor led strip lights are better for more demanding applications and long-term use to brighten up your outdoor spaces.

Feel your outdoor landscape with PaneraLux pool and outdoor LED strips, enjoy the moments with your loved ones.

For expert advice and assistance in choosing the perfect LED strip lights for your outdoor space, feel free to reach out to our team. Email or click the icon in the bottom right corner, chat with us and you can get professional advice soon.

FAQ

Can outdoor waterproof led strip lighting also be weatherproof?

A: Yes, outdoor waterproof led strip lights can also be weatherproof as it can resist exposure to both water and weather elements.

Does weatherproof mean waterproof?

A: No, although a weatherproof product can also be waterproof, a waterproof product is usually considered to have a higher level of water protection than a weatherproof product.

How do I know if a product is weatherproof or waterproof?

A: A product that is weatherproof or waterproof should have a label of IP rating.

Can weatherproof materials become waterproof with additional treatments?

A: Weatherproof materials cannot be made completely waterproof through treatments. While certain coatings can enhance their water resistance, they won’t match the inherent properties of materials designed to be waterproof.

Are waterproof light strips always more expensive than weatherproof ones?

A: In the same specifications, yes. Waterproof LED strips require more advanced technology and materials, contributing to a higher cost than weatherproof LED strip lights.

Can weatherproof or waterproof LED strip lighting be used indoors?

A: Yes, weatherproof or waterproof strip lights can be used indoors. You can use them according to the conditions, especially in areas prone to dampness, splashing water, or underwater, like bathrooms, kitchens or indoor pools.

Do all waterproof LED strip lights have the same depth and duration of submersion capabilities?

A: No, the depth and duration of submersion of a waterproof strip vary based on its IP rating and design. Please always check the specific rating and manufacturers’ guidelines for precise information.

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