How to Install in-lite DB-LED Recessed Deck Lights: Drill Perfect 22mm Holes in Composite or Wood with a Forstner Bit

Lighting up your deck with in-lite DB-LED 22mm recessed deck lights is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can tackle as a DIY enthusiast or a contractor. These ultra-compact, warm white fixtures are designed to sit perfectly flush in your wood or composite decking, garden walkways, or even on stair risers, creating both safety and ambiance. Based on years of hands-on experience with customer projects at The Ultimate Deck Shop in Regina and Saskatoon—and across countless materials—we’ve developed some best practices for getting flawless, professional-looking results every time. Let’s break down the full journey: planning your project, drilling precise 22mm holes (the key to a clean install), and connecting everything safely for years of trouble-free enjoyment.

What You’ll Need: Tools & Materials Checklist

• in-lite DB-LED 22mm Recessed Deck Lights (Shop here)
• 22mm Forstner Bit for clean, flat-bottomed holes
  • Famag Forstner 22mm – sharp, precise, and purpose-made
• Variable-speed drill (with fresh battery or corded power)
• 6–8mm twist drill bit or spade bit for cable pass-through
• Painters tape, pencil, measuring square
• Vacuum, dust mask, eye/ear protection
• in-lite HUB transformer & EASY-LOCK connectors (included with fixtures)
• Optional: Silicone exterior sealant, soft mallet, cable stapler with insulated staples

Step 1: Planning Your Layout & Wiring

• Transformer Placement: The in-lite HUB should be installed near a GFCI-protected outlet and within reach of your main deck during layout. We recommend mounting it in a location sheltered from extreme weather—many choose the utility side of the deck under a privacy wall or bench. For maximum reliability, consider a HUB Protector to keep your transformer safe from the elements.

  

• Main Cable Routing: Lay your in-lite main cable along easy-to-access areas under the deck boards, behind fascia, or in notched grooves. Avoid tight bends or sharp fasteners—always check framing layouts to bypass joists or hidden screws. Think about future access: leaving cable slack and service loops near fixture drops helps with upgrades.
• Fixture Spacing: For deck perimeters, 36–48 inches apart is visually balanced; for stairs, position about 4 inches above each tread. For wide risers (over 36"), two fixtures spaced 12–16" from each edge look fantastic and provide even lighting.

Step 2: Marking and Preparing for Drilling

• Use a measuring tape and square to mark each fixture location. Double-check that there are no joists, hidden fasteners, or obstacles below your mark.
• On composite boards, apply painter’s tape before marking the center—this greatly reduces surface chipping and delivers a cleaner finished edge.

Step 3: Drilling Perfect 22mm Holes—Forstner Bit Best Practices

Why a Forstner bit? Regular spade or hole saw bits can leave a sloppy entrance and cause tear-out or a ragged shoulder. In contrast, a Forstner bit produces a clean-edged, flat-bottomed hole perfectly suited for recessed light installations. At The Ultimate Deck Shop, we recommend the Famag Forstner 22mm for its balance of precision and long life even after dozens of holes in thicker composite or treated wood materials.

Drilling Procedure

1. Drill a test hole in a scrap piece of your decking first! Confirm your bit accuracy against the DB-LED’s body.
2. Place the drill at 90 degrees to the deck surface. With low–medium RPM, allow the bit spur to register before applying moderate, even pressure. Forstner bits cut on the rim first, so don’t force it—let the tool do the work.
3. For composite: Slow down and vacuum chips often. If the bit begins to heat and melt the material, pause and let it cool. High RPM or too much pressure = risk of "smile" marks and overheating!
4. Drill only as deep as needed for the body of the light (usually 25–38mm; measure your fixture). If more wire depth is needed behind, use a second pass with a regular spade bit on the back side—not with your fine Forstner.
5. For the cable, drill a centered 6–8mm hole from the recess bottom through to the underside for the DB-LED lead.

Pro Tips:

• Sharp bits only! A dull bit burns and tears out more, especially on composite.
• Keep a vacuum handy to clear shavings for a precise seat.
• Let the material (especially composite) cool between holes if you’re doing a lot in a row.

Step 4: Fitting and Installing the DB-LED Lights

1. Dry-fit each fixture. The DB-LED should fit easily with a gentle push. If it’s snug, light sanding or deburring can help. Avoid hammering, especially in hot weather when deck boards expand.
2. Route the DB-LED cable out the pass-through hole and along your planned path. Secure with cable clips or insulated staples—never puncture the insulation!
3. If fit is a tiny bit loose, a small bead of exterior silicone can hold the fixture in place and remain serviceable for future relamping.

Step 5: Making Electrical Connections—The EASY-LOCK Advantage

• Lay your in-lite direct-burial cable as planned.
• With the provided EASY-LOCK connector, place the cable in the channel, then insert the fixture’s lead, close, and click tight. The connector teeth puncture the sheathing to make a weatherproof contact.
• Plug the DB-LED’s pigtail into the connector, test with a gentle tug, then power the HUB for a quick illumination test.
• Repeat for each fixture, working methodically around the deck or stairs.

Specifics for Stairs, Borders, and Creative Installs

• Stairs: Mount 2 DB-LEDs per riser for stairs wider than 36". Drill through the riser face and stringer for cable routing, keeping all cables away from moving parts and fasteners.
• Deck/Patio Borders: Evenly space the fixtures along edges or flight paths—never far enough apart to create shadow "gaps" in walkway illumination.
• Other Surfaces: The DB-LED can also be used in pavers, fences, or privacy walls (always check substrate thickness and compatibility).

Safety and Installation Notes

• in-lite’s 12V System: The entire installation is low voltage, making it safe and ideal for DIY projects. Still, always disconnect the HUB transformer when connecting many wires at once.
• Weather and Moisture: If installing in cold weather, take care with composite (it becomes brittle) and with wires (they can stiffen and snap if flexed repeatedly when cold).
• Work clean: Protect eyeglasses, ears, and dust-sensitive areas during drilling—even premium Forstner bits throw a lot of fine debris.

Recommended in-lite Lighting Add-Ons

• in-lite Big Cubid – Subtle architectural wall light for vertical accent projects

  

• in-lite LIV – Low-profile, all-sided light for garden borders, driveways, or wide deck platforms

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Tear-out or chipping: Lower RPM, painter’s tape, and sharp bits fix 90% of visible surface issues
• Fixture too tight: Wait until the sun goes down and boards shrink slightly (for composites)—otherwise, micro-sand for the perfect fit
• Fixture won’t light: Double-check cable polarity at the connector, and confirm the HUB is powered. If multiple lights are out, verify cable isn’t nicked or severed mid-run
• Drilled hole is oversized: Use a bit of silicone to hold the fixture centered without permanent adhesion

FAQs for DB-LED Deck Lighting Installs

• Is a 22mm bit mandatory? Yes—DB-LED is engineered for a true 22mm hole, which ensures a snug, professional finish without wobble or gaps. 7/8" (22.23mm) will often be a touch too loose, especially in softwood.
• Can I install in the rain? It’s best to avoid wet installs—while the system is waterproof, water and dust affect adhesives and cable connections during install. Plan for a dry day when possible.
• Can I power up to test as I go? Absolutely—the in-lite system is designed for powered testing so you can confirm polarity and spacing before completing all wires and connections. We always recommend a quick live check after connecting each EASY-LOCK.

Our Unique Approach at The Ultimate Deck Shop

We know that proper lighting transforms a good deck into an exceptional outdoor living space. We’ve worked one-on-one with homeowners and professional installers for years, ensuring each project runs smoothly—offering everything from in-stock, ready-to-go fixtures, to the correct 22mm Forstner bits and real-world troubleshooting. Need help planning your project? Our team is here for a free consult—visit, call, or use our quick-quote form.

Ready to Start?

• Shop the in-lite DB-LED 22mm and Famag Forstner bits online, or visit our Regina or Saskatoon locations.
• See more lighting inspiration or get design help on our 3D Design Service page.
• Not sure where to start? Reach out via contact form for expert advice.

At The Ultimate Deck Shop, decks are more than lumber—they’re where you make memories. Here’s to a brighter, safer, and more beautiful backyard.