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Recessed Lighting FAQs

Why Recessed Lighting?
Recessed Lighting has many uses and can provide any light from ambient to task focused.  Recessed Lighting has many commercial and residential uses and are the preferred method of lighting using a minimalistic approach.

Q: How many fixtures do I need?

A: There are a few factors to consider before choosing your recessed lighting. Take into consideration what existing light you will have in the room.  Are you planning on using recessed lighting for the majority of your light source? Kitchens and other high use areas will require more light. Your ceiling height will also determine how far apart your recessed cans should be. Below is a general guideline for recessed can spacing.

8 foot ceilings: 3 feet apart
10 foot ceilings: 4 feet apart
12 foot celings: 5 feet apart

Q: What size recessed trims should I use?

A: This is based more on aesthetics and will depend on personal style and feel of the room. For smaller rooms 3-4 inch diameter trims will fit the space well.  Larger rooms that also have higher ceilings can use 5-8 inch recessed trims.  Ceilings of 12 feet or higher should have at least 6 inch cans  Directional spot trims are perfect for illuminating walls or art work since light can be re-directed if needed.

Q: What kind of trims are available?
A: There are many trim options that are both functional and decorative to fit style and space.
Down Light: use for general illumination
Directionals Used for spot lighting of specific objects and task lighting. These can either be recessed into the fixture or extending out like the pictured "Eye Ball" trim.

Wall Washer: Half-covered trim to allow light to splash on a wall
Shower Light: UL Wet Listed for in shower use. Note: Be sure to use the correct gaskets and follow manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.
Sloped Ceiling: Special trim and housings for angled ceilings.
Ceiling Fixture: This trim type looks like a ceiling fixture but uses the bulb of a recessed housing for illumination.  This is primarily used when a ceiling fixture is desired where there is an existing recessed light.
Pinhole Fixture: Used for spot lighting where focused light control is desired.
Beauty Spots: Decorative glass shade used with a recessed housing and creates a unique light pattern. 
 

Q: What kind of housing will I need?

A: Part 1 - Installation Type: 
There are 2 types of housings for most recessed lighting applications: Remodel and New Construction.  Remodel housings are used in existing ceilings where a hole is cut (please refer to housing installation instructions) and is wired through the ceiling.  New construction housings will be installed between rafters before a ceiling is installed and is generally only used when a house is first being built.

Part 2 - Insulated Ceilings: 
If your ceiling has insulation then an IC-rated housing will be required so that insulation can touch the surface of the fixture without causing a fire hazard.  These housings are typically larger to create space around the heat source of the recessed fixture.  Non-IC rated housings can be used in non-insulated ceilings or can be used with insulation ONLY if 3 Inches of space is present on all sides of the housing.  

Featured Recessed Lighting FAQ

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