This guide covers a complete GlowTrax Classic or Pro install, from planning the run to powering on.
Which Track Do You Have?
- GlowTrax Classic fits Govee H705 and H805 models (Original, Lights 2, Elite).
- GlowTrax Pro fits Govee Pro H706 models.
Not sure? Check the compatibility chart.
Step 1: Plan Your Layout
Before installing anything, plan the entire run of your lighting system. Start by identifying where your power supply will be located. This is where your installation should begin. From that starting point, work your way down the roofline and think about how the lighting will travel across the house.
Things to consider during planning:
- Where will the lights start and end?
- Where will the wiring need to travel to reach other sections of the house?
- Will you need to transition to other roof peaks or elevations?
- Will you need splitters or extensions to reach those areas?
This is one of the most important steps in the entire installation. A few minutes spent planning can save hours of adjustments later. Not sure how many kits you need? See our sizing guide.
Step 2: Determine Light Distance from the House
Decide how far from the house you want the lights mounted. Most lighting manufacturers, including Govee, recommend about 3 to 4 inches. The distance changes the look:
- Closer (about 3 inches): A more defined cone-shaped light pattern. Individual lights appear more distinct.
- Farther (about 4 inches or more): A softer glow. Light blends together more smoothly across the wall.
This is mostly personal preference, so take a moment to picture the effect you want before installing the tracks.
Step 3: Gather Tools and Hardware
Screws
Mount GlowTrax with screws suited to your surface. #8 x 3/4" exterior-rated screws work well for most installs.
- Metal fascia or soffits: self-tapping sheet metal screws
- Wood fascia or trim: exterior wood screws
Use weather-resistant screws for long-term durability. Place screws about every 24 to 36 inches, with two screws per track section. The aluminum track drills easily with a bit that matches your screw size.
Recommended Tools
- Drill or powered screwdriver
- Safety glasses
- Tape measure
- Pencil or marker for marking cuts
- Tin snips or a metal saw with a blade suitable for aluminum
- Ladder suitable for your roofline height (follow all ladder warnings and instructions)
Cutting Tip
Use tin snips or a fine-tooth metal blade and cut slowly so the track does not bend or deform. If you make 45° cuts, deburr the inside edges to remove sharp metal and ensure proper installation. Always wear safety glasses when cutting metal.
Ladder Safety
Always place ladders on stable, level ground and follow proper ladder safety practices. Never overreach. Move the ladder as needed to keep a safe working position.
Step 4: Understand the Included Track Components
Your GlowTrax kit includes components for different installation situations:
- 90° horizontal inserts for outside corners
- Flexible hinge connectors for vertical 90° transitions and roof peaks
- End caps to finish the ends of track runs
We recommend securing end caps with silicone caulk, epoxy, a suitable weather-resistant glue, or a small screw so they stay firmly attached.
Step 5: Install the First Track
Start with the track closest to your power supply. Position it at the distance from the house you chose in Step 2 and secure it with at least two screws.
Pro Tip: Use a spacer to keep a consistent distance across the entire install. A small block of wood cut to the right distance or a short scrap piece of track both work. This keeps the whole run straight and consistent.
Step 6: Install the Second Track
Mount the second track section directly next to the first and secure it with screws.
Step 7: Install Lights and Stagger the Covers
After mounting the first two tracks, install the lights into the track. From a ladder you can usually reach two mounted tracks at once, so it is efficient to install lights as you go. See How to Snap In Your Govee Light for the technique.
Pro Tip: Stagger the Cover Seams. Occasionally cut a few inches off a cover/light track so the seams between sections are staggered. This:
- Creates a cleaner overall appearance
- Adds rigidity to the system
- Keeps seams from lining up across multiple tracks
Step 8: Test the Lights
Once the lights are in the first two tracks, test the system. Testing early confirms everything works before you continue. Keep testing periodically as you add sections so you catch any issues while everything is still easy to reach.
Step 9: Continue the Track Run
Keep installing tracks, lights and covers along the roofline, testing as you go.
Tip: Easy Track Disassembly. To separate track sections after snapping them together, insert a putty knife into the seam and slide it along the joint while gently pulling down on the track. You can also squeeze the track with the lights to "roll" it out. Either method releases the connection without damaging the aluminum.
Step 10: Handle Corners and Transitions
You have two options for corners and transitions:
- Use the included corner connectors, or
- Cut 45° angles in the track for a fully aluminum corner. Deburr the inside edges to remove sharp metal and ensure proper light installation.
Both work well. Choose based on the look and installation style you prefer. More detail in Corners and Peaks.
Step 11: Snap the Covers Into Place
Once the tracks and lights are installed and tested, snap all the track covers into place. The covers conceal the wiring and create the clean, finished look GlowTrax is designed for.
Step 12: Secure End Caps and Power On
Attach end caps where needed to finish each run. Secure them with silicone caulk, epoxy, a suitable weather-resistant glue, or a small screw. Then power on your system and enjoy your permanent lighting.
Install Videos
Step-by-step install videos are coming soon. Subscribe on YouTube to see them first, and check our installation tips and tricks guide in the meantime.
Rather Have a Pro Do It?
No problem. Find an installer near you and hand them your GlowTrax kit.
Questions? Email [email protected].