Installing LED light panels behind translucent stone surfaces like onyx, quartzite, and marble creates stunning vertical features — from glowing backsplashes in kitchens to elegant illuminated shower walls and commercial displays. This guide outlines Nu World’s best practices for vertical LED panel installation based on over 15 years of experience in the North American market.
Note: This is a general guide. Always consult with your licensed electrician and experienced stone fabricator to determine the best method for your project.
Mounting the LED Panel
For vertical applications, LED panels are typically mounted directly to the wall using 3M VHB double-sided tape. This method provides temporary hold during installation. In many kitchen installations, the panel rests on the lower cabinets and is anchored behind the uppers, making use of the cabinetry structure for support.
In some situations, mechanical fasteners may also be used. If pre-drilled mounting holes are included in the LED panel frame, it may be possible to screw the panel to the wall — but this must be done with extreme caution to avoid damage. Most installations do not require this.
Adhering the Stone Slab (If Required)
Whenever possible, the best practice is to avoid adhesives altogether. Mechanically supported installations — using cabinetry channels, brackets, or top-mounted rails — are the cleanest and most serviceable.
However, if your stone fabricator requires adhesive, follow these important rules:
- Do not apply adhesive directly to the LED panel.
- Instead, apply small dabs or beads of clear adhesive to the back of the stone slab.
- Only apply adhesive to areas that are not translucent — such as veins or cloudy patches.
- The slab is then pressed gently against the LED panel, using those adhesive points for contact.
Too much adhesive or contact in transparent areas can cause visible “hot spots.” Most experienced fabricators will avoid this and often find more elegant solutions to support the slab mechanically.
Using a Diffusion Layer (Optional but Recommended)
If your stone is particularly crystalline or highly translucent, we recommend using a diffusion layer to soften the lighting and eliminate any visible seams or hotspots.
The industry gold standard is:
- White 7328 Plexiglas® diffusion acrylic
- Commonly used in 1/16″ or 1/8″ thickness
- Helps spread light uniformly across the entire surface
Order online here: https://www.estreetplastics.com/white-plexiglass-acrylic-7328-s/85.htm
Many clients wait until the LED panels arrive and do a quick backlighting test with their specific stone slab. If hot spots or seams are visible, the 7328 acrylic sheet can be added during installation for a more diffused result.
Wiring and Voltage Considerations
All Nu World LED panels are low-voltage systems, typically powered by 12V DC. However, 24V DC systems are available for large installations or where long wiring runs are involved.
We recommend:
- Placing the power supply as close to the LED panel as possible
- Using 10 or 12 gauge wire for runs longer than 10 feet to minimize voltage drop
- Choosing a 24V DC system for very long wiring distances, where feasible
Important: These are only general recommendations. All wiring and electrical decisions should be made in consultation with a licensed electrician familiar with your local code and the specific installation site.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but here’s what we recommend as a general approach for vertical LED backlighting:
- Start with a test: try your LED panel with your actual slab
- Use mechanical support methods whenever possible
- If using adhesive, apply sparingly and only to opaque sections on the stone’s back side
- In high-translucency cases, add a diffusion layer like 7328 Plexiglas®
- Keep your power supply close and use heavy gauge wiring
- Let your electrician and fabricator guide the final install plan
Ready to Light Up Your Stone Wall or Backsplash?
We ship custom LED light panels across the United States and Canada—including homes and design projects in New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Seattle, Toronto, Vancouver, and more.
Send us your drawings, dimensions, or stone photos today and we’ll help you plan the perfect backlighting solution. Our panels are precision-built, easy to install, and trusted by designers and contractors across North America.
Let’s get your project glowing.
Nu World Custom Lighting and Design
Website: https://nu-wo.com
Email: info@nu-wo.com
Phone: 1-604-900-2313
Explore Projects: https://nu-wo.com/featured-projects/