Recessed lighting is a stylish, unobtrusive, and chic way to update a space with lots of light. Like with any design project, there are many details to choose from when deciding what kind of recessed lighting you want to install. The following are some different details to keep in mind when buying recessed lights.

Types of Recessed Lighting Housing

The housing of recessed lights is what contains the actual light fixture. This is the part of recessed lighting that is typically not seen as it’s ‘recessed’ into the ceiling. The type of housing you want to choose depends on the materials and attributes of the room in which you’re installing the recessed lighting. It’s an important choice, even though no one will see it.

  • Installation Contact Rated Housing– this housing is used when the body of the light fixture will come into direct contact with insulation.
  • Non-Insulation Contact Rated Housing– to use this housing you need at least 3” of space between the insulation and the light fixture.
  • Airtight Housing– this housing is useful when the body of the light fixture is going to be recessed in an area that isn’t climate controlled. This helps keep your energy bills low as it doesn’t let air leak through the fixture.
  • Shallow Ceiling Housing– this is great for ceilings that don’t have a super-high clearance or have a very shallow space for the housing.
  • Sloped Ceiling Housing– perfect for sloped ceilings where typical housing wouldn’t be flush with the ceiling.

Types of Recessed Lighting Trim

Trim types really change the overall appearance of the recessed light fixtures but they also each have specific characteristics that affect the ambiance of the room. Here are some of the most common types of trim and the details that set them apart.

  • Baffle Trim– this is the most common type of trim that has ribbed edges to minimize glare. Baffle trim surrounds the bulb and keeps it from being flush with the ceiling.
  • Reflector Trim– this trim increases the illumination of the bulbs by using a reflective surface on the trim border.
  • Open Trim-this trim is ‘hidden’ and the bulb appears flush with the ceiling
  • Eyeball Trim– this is an adjustable trim that pivots to direct light wherever you desire.
  • Gimbal Trim– similar to the eyeball trim, this trim also pivots to direct light but also uses a shade to block light from shining in desired areas.
  • Pinhole Trim– this trim creates a spotlight effect by narrowing the light to a small but bright beam.
  • Wall-Wash Trim– this trim is similar to a gimbal trim only it doesn’t pivot. Great for highlighting certain areas of a room.
  • Shower Trim– this trim is water-tight and appropriate for bath and shower areas.

Ready to Instal Recessed Lighting In Your Home? We Can Help.

So you’ve decided to pull the plug and install recessed lighting in your home but the process, and many options, seems a bit daunting? We can help! Ways Electrical has professional electricians who can help advise you on the perfect type of recessed lighting for your home. Contact us HERE for more information.