How to Layout Recessed Lighting

One of the most important principles to understand when designing a recessed lighting layout is beam angle. In recessed cans, the light is produced in the shape of a cone. You picture the light starting as a point at the light fixture and forming a circle on the floor. The beam angle is the angle of this light out of the bulb. For example a 60-degree beam angle will produce a circle of light about 9 feet across on the floor if the fixture is 8 feet off the floor. See a Diagram.

That is just one part of the formula. That circle of light we now have on the floor is not all the same intensity. About five and a half feet of that circle is good intense light while the remainder is spill over and diminishes as it gets further from the center. This is very important to understand. With this information, you can overlap the spill over light so that you end up with a nice even light pattern over the entire area you are trying to illuminate. Something to remember when you are planning this out is something called the work plane. This is an area about 30" above the floor. It is an area where most tasks take place.

The work plane is important because as the distance between the light fixture and the surface to be lit decreases, so does that circle we spoke about. In a living room or den, designing the lighting plan so that we have even light on the floor is fine. In a kitchen though, this work plane becomes far more critical. This is why in a kitchen, keeping recessed lights about 4 feet apart, creates a pattern that is even on the work plane with the intense portion of the circle.

There are some other things besides the bulb and the can that shape the light pattern. The finish trim on recessed lights can vary the pattern of light. A wall washer creates a half cone that can be directed at a wall or fireplace. A pin spot trim can direct the light in a very narrow beam to light a small object.

This should give you a basic idea of what is involved when you undertake a recessed lighting layout. If you would like to learn more or have questions, please visit us at the links below.

(c) Copyright 2005 Paul Forte. All rights reserved.

Paul Forte has been in the lighting and electrical field for over 25 years. He has helped countless homeowners across the country with their lighting needs through his website. he will be appearing on an upcoming episode of "It Takes a Thief" on the discovery channel installing some security lighting. How to Layout Recessed Lighting Visit Our Home Page for more information

---

Add Value To Your Home With A Home Improvement Loan

Buying a home is a big and important investment for... Read More

Basement Dehumidifiers

Basements are the most common location for dehumidifiers. Because of... Read More

Door Hardware - the Focal Point of the Home

The door is the focal point of the home which... Read More

What Are Light Fixtures Used For?

Light fixtures are something not many of us think about.... Read More

Modern Rugs

The modern look is a highly admired form of interior... Read More

An Introduction to Waterproofing Systems

Many homeowners find it necessary to invest in a waterproofing... Read More

Maintaining Your Hot Tub

Purchasing a hot tub is a big investment and one... Read More

Your Home is Your Symphony

"Dr. Carl Sagan once wrote, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting... Read More

Rodent Proofing Your Home

It's that time of year where rats and mice are... Read More

Tips for Choosing Log Furniture

If you just love that rustic look, and are finally... Read More

Stair Railings Styles

The stair railing at home is more than a simple... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Conservatories - Dispelling a Myth

It's now well into the new year and the residential... Read More

Refining Your Area Rug Choice

As a Managing Partner of www.exquisiterugs.com, the question... Read More

Remove Ink Stains From Carpet

One of the best solvents you can use to remove... Read More

10 Things To Consider Before Planning And Installing A New Bathroom

Whether you want to install a new bathroom or make... Read More

Refrigerators Electric Consumption - Lower It In 15 Minutes

I recently had a customer ask for my advise about... Read More

Finding The Right Window Treatment In Los Angeles And Chicago

Some of the most unique and individual décor consultants can... Read More

The Advantages of Steel Buildings

Use of steel as a construction material has seen phenomenal... Read More

Buyers Guide For Modern Mailboxes

Modern mailboxes are made predominately from cast aluminum or stainless... Read More

Remodeling Your Kitchen Cabinets

While remodeling your kitchen, install only the essential cabinets, so... Read More

Measuring For Your Vinyl Replacement Windows

Let's say you're tired of those old wood windows, and... Read More

Top Ten Air Purifier Questions

1. Do I really need an air purifier in my... Read More

Colors: Their Connotations and Perceived Meanings

Throughout the ages, colors have been used to evoke certain... Read More

Traditional Interior Design

Traditional interior design encompasses a great variety of elements in... Read More

At Last You Can Customize Your Pegboard As Much As You Want

Customizable metal pegboard is set to revolutionise utensil storage. For... Read More

How To Completely Rehab Your Home In 10 Days!

This report is about taking a house and restoring it... Read More

How To Buy A Conservatory In The UK

The first question is, what is a conservatory?There is no... Read More

How to Paint Your Own Artwork - And Save Money

Everyone wants to save money. Don't you? Well, painting your... Read More

Do You Know How Important Your Air Conditioner Filter Is?

When most people think about an air conditioner filter, it... Read More

Building a Garage Addition to Your Home

One of the most rewarding home improvements I made to... Read More

What Are Circuit Breakers?

Circuit Breakers are devices that stop the electrical current of... Read More

Planning Permision Tips UK - 6 Common Design Mistakes When Extending a Residential Property

Don't you just love the design of some of these... Read More

What is Wire EDM?

What exactly is wire electrical discharge machining, also referred to... Read More