Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - number of recessed lights
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lee330
11-18-04, 11:42 AM
I'm installing 6" recessed lighting in my basement. Does anyone know of a website or know of a general guideline for how much square footage one of these fixtures will sufficiently light? I'm just trying to figure out how many I need to buy. Thanks.
logan17k
11-18-04, 12:20 PM
Depending on the type of bulb used, a recessed can 8' from the floor will make a ring of light maybe 10 foot wide, brightest in the middle of course.
Assuming you dont have vaulted ceilings in your basement, I believe the general guidline is a fixture every 5 or so feet in a grid pattern.
This can be overkill and look very commercial if you follow it too strictly though, depending on the wattage bulbs you use and whether or not they're controlled by a dimmer...
Generally, I'd suggest running a ring around the room about 2 foot out from the wall and 5 feet apart, if its a big room (more than 12 feet) consider placing some extras in the middle. This should give you plenty of lighting and not be too bright if they cannot be dimmed.
This is a good opportunity to highlight features of the room as well...if you dont plan to install track lighting later, be sure to have a can or two centered over things like fireplaces and entryways.
Assuming you dont have vaulted ceilings in your basement, I believe the general guidline is a fixture every 5 or so feet in a grid pattern.
This can be overkill and look very commercial if you follow it too strictly though, depending on the wattage bulbs you use and whether or not they're controlled by a dimmer...
Generally, I'd suggest running a ring around the room about 2 foot out from the wall and 5 feet apart, if its a big room (more than 12 feet) consider placing some extras in the middle. This should give you plenty of lighting and not be too bright if they cannot be dimmed.
This is a good opportunity to highlight features of the room as well...if you dont plan to install track lighting later, be sure to have a can or two centered over things like fireplaces and entryways.