Learn How to Easily Install Recessed Lighting in Your Home in Just 6 Steps
Installing recessed lighting can be a great way to modernise your home. With the range of housing and trim options, you can make sure that you find the right style and design for your home. In order to install recessed lighting correctly, you’ll need to follow the steps outlined below.
The first step is to choose the right fixtures for your installation. Depending on the space you’re installing into, you’ll need to determine whether you should use a “new-construction” or a “remodel” lighting fixture. If you have access to the space above the ceiling, such as an attic, a new-construction option would be best. However, if you don’t have access to the space, such as if you’re installing the fixture in between stories, the more compact remodel type would be better. If there is insulation within 3 inches of the housing, an insulation-contact rated fixture, or an IC fixture, should be chosen.
There are also a variety of trim options available. Baffle trims are the most common ones and these have grooves that reduce glare and make them great for general lighting. Reflector trims are smooth and polished and will help increase the intensity of the light. Adjustable trims or “eyeball” trims allow you to pivot the bulb in the direction you’d like the light to focus.
Once you’ve chosen the right fixtures, you’ll need to turn off the electricity and then use a stud finder to select a location that is not blocked by ceiling joists or other impediments. Some new-construction fixtures may need to be attached to joists or hanging bars, so you should check with the manufacturer for instructions. Take the template that comes with the fixture and trace its outline on the ceiling and then use a drywall saw or a hole-cutting saw to cut the hole precisely.
After that, you’ll need to install the recessed lighting wiring system. Run new cable from the power source and the switch box to the new hole. If you’re installing the light into an attic space, this is a simple task. If you’re installing between stories, you’ll need to fish the wire through the walls and ceilings.
Once the wiring system is installed, you can insert the can, or outer housing, into the hole and secure it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Remodel types have clips inside the can to hold the housing in place above the ceiling drywall. Insert the body of the light and the trim as well and screw in the light bulb. Repeat these steps for each fixture.
Once all the fixtures are installed, you can turn back the electricity and test out your new recessed lighting system. Be sure to heed electrical safety precautions when handling the wiring system and always check that the electricity is off before starting. Installing recessed lighting can be a great way to update and modernize your home and make it look more stylish. With the right fixtures and a few steps, you can ensure that your recessed lighting looks great and works well.
