How To Choose Recessed Lighting
Find the perfect recessed lights by following the steps listed in this guide.
Recessed Lighting Housing
It is important to figure out which type of recessed lighting housing you will need for your home. Make sure to make these two considerations first before choosing your trim.
Remodel or New Construction?
Remodel Recessed Lighting Installation
These are installed within the ceiling material and not connected to a ceiling or floor joist. The housing is clipped to the ceiling material by four metal spring clips. This installation is preferred if attic access is not available or limited.
New Construction Recessed Lighting Installation
These are installed between the ceiling joists within the attic space. The housing is best installed during a remodel or while building a new house.
What is an IC Rating?
An IC rating determines whether or not the recessed lighting housing may come in contact with insulation.
- IC Rating means that the recessed lighting housing may come into contact with insulation.
- Non-IC Rating means that the recessed lighting housing may not come into contact with insulation.
Measurements and Sizing
Next you need to consider what size recessed lighting you need for your space. Layout and placement are huge, as well as, how much light you will need in your space.
Recessed Lighting Trims
Once you figure out the type of housing you need and the size of light you want, then you can start the fun part by picking out the trims. The trim is the part of the light fixture that you see and determines the look, the feel and the amount of light. These are our eight most popular trim types:
Adjustable Trims
- Commonly called the eyeball trim or directional
- Moves in a jointed fashion
Other adjustable trims offer a more pivoted feature that enables you to turn them toward a particular area for an even illumination.
Baffle Trims
- Most common recessed lighting trim
- Light casts downward
Looking for the traditional recessed light, then you want the baffle. It's simple, does the job and comes in a variety of finishes and colors.
Reflector Trims
- Defined by it's mirror-like reflection
- Great for amplifying light
Like the traditional look of the baffle, but need some more light? The reflector trims are going to be your best bet.
Shower Trims
- May be installed in a shower area
- UL rated for the damp air
These trims offer additional lighting for darker shower areas and are safe to install in wetter locations.
Wall Wash Trims
- Also called a scalloped trim
- Has an eyelid-like feature to direct light upon a wall
This option is great for accent lighting on a piece of art or to illuminate your books and decorations on your shelving.
Pinhole Trims
- Produces less light
- Works similar to a pinhole camera
The majority of the light is covered by a trim to lessen the amount of light, which makes for a more dramatic lighting experience.
Decorative Trims
- Comes in a variety of finishes and designs
- Meant to fit your home’s design and style
For a more dressed-up look than your traditional canned light, explore products with crystal details, youthful shapes, and colorful trims.
Square Trims
- Defined by their square shape
- Great for contemporary designs
It's hip to be square with this recessed trim. Think beyond the common circle and step out of the box.
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