Since there are many ceiling lighting styles, it can be challenging to select your desired type. Choosing an appropriate lighting fixture entails considering the light layer effects and lighting design aspects. Read on for the ultimate ceiling lights buying guide.
Installing ceiling lights can significantly transform your house's appearance. Typical benefits of installing them include:
Ceiling lights have a unique design depending on their purpose. Moreover, their manufacturing usually focuses on style and quality. Therefore, you can easily find a ceiling lighting fixture that suits your house's design and theme. Nowadays, many light designers make contemporary fixtures focused on a retro appearance, giving any house a classic look.
There are several variations in ceiling lighting, which enables you to easily choose the option that perfectly suits your house décor. Ceiling lights are available in different types, patterns, and sizes based on your budget.
There are different types of ceiling lights. The following are some of the most common, based on their categories:
These are ceiling lights fixed flush or close to the ceiling, suitable for large or medium rooms or low ceilings. Therefore, these fixtures are great options for those who require ambient light for a whole room.
These are flat attachments fixed to the ceiling. Small flush lights are suitable for a closet, bathroom, or hallway, while larger flush fixtures are ideal for kids’ bedrooms since nothing is suspended from the ceiling. Flush lights are appealing in rooms with ceilings less than eight feet high. However, installing them on a higher ceiling creates a perception of emptiness.
The primary advantage of semi-flush lights is in replacing the lightbulb, which is easy and quick. These light fixtures are usually used in small dining rooms and kitchens. However, you can also apply this style in other rooms. The main difference between flush lights and semi-flush light fixtures is that a flush light directs light down to the space while semi-flush lights direct down to the space and light up the ceiling simultaneously.
Recessed lights are installed on the interior side of the ceiling. They are ideal for rooms with a low ceiling. The fixture uses a glass panel to diffuse the light inside of the area.
Utility lights are usually casings for LED bulbs or simple fixtures fixed flush to the ceiling. This option is suitable for a garage workshop because they require brighter and more energy-efficient lighting. Although this form of lighting may appear as a minor upgrade, it can significantly transform the usage of your space.
Rather than fitting a light fixture on a ceiling, LED indirect lighting entails fitting LED light strips around the ceiling. The ceiling reflects light from the strips, allowing you to develop the impression that the space is larger. Furthermore, you can opt to change colors if you want light-changing LEDs.
Hanging light fittings are modified for ambient and task lighting. They focus light on a small place. The following are the types of hanging ceiling lights:
Pendant lights are similar to chandeliers because they are suspended low. However, pendant lights offer only a single source of light. If you want extra lighting for a specific space, you can use a pendant light that makes a good combination with a flush light fixture. You can also fit many pendant lights to provide task lighting in different places or mount them in a small room or a hallway.
Installing inverted pendant lights creates a subdued environment in any space. Many homeowners apply these light fixtures to their kitchen space. However, you can also use them in your living room or bedroom since they are suitable for ambient lighting. Inverted pendant lights can make a small room look bigger because the pendant directs some lights in the ceiling direction.
Traders refer to these lights as bowl pendants. There are other shapes available that can create a more modern appearance. You could consider adding crown molding in the middle of the room because the inverted pendant light focuses on the design aspect and has an intricate effect by focusing light on the molding.
Installing a chandelier can add some style to your dining or living room. However, you should select your chandelier style carefully since it becomes the room’s central point of focus. Moreover, it is also crucial to modify the height of this kind of ceiling light.
Track lighting fittings can create a modern style in your room. These fittings are suitable for the task or accent lighting because they have several single lights hanging from a track. You can either suspend the track from the ceiling or mount it on the ceiling according to the height or effect you prefer. In addition, some track lighting fittings allow you to adjust the individual lights' direction, making them great for a food preparation area.
You can combine pendant lighting with track lighting by selecting a fitting designed to suspend individual pendants. Suspending the pendant lights at different heights provides optimal task lighting and creates an original effect.
Rail lighting is the same as track lighting. However, you can adjust the position and shape of the rail. Some fixtures also offer the ability to adjust each light fixture's position. This lighting is ideal if you intend to add task lighting in a corner or if you think a curved design appears better looking.
This lighting is similar to track lighting. However, it is specifically designed for kitchen spaces. Therefore, it usually hangs lower than other track lighting fixtures. Island lighting is common in many kitchen designs, and it becomes the primary focus of the kitchen once installed. Although this lighting fixture is mostly used in kitchens, it can be ideal for a large desk or workshop
Apart from the design, ceiling lights are also classified according to the material used. The light fixture material also determines whether the design aspect matches the room's general atmosphere and tone. Types of ceiling lights according to the material used include:
Glass is a common material for manufacturing light fixtures because it appropriately diffuses light. This material easily matches various home décor, and it can also be used in many ways. So, if you want to install ceiling lights, glass material is available in different colors and finish types which can significantly transform your home style.
Most recessed and flush lights are manufactured from glass. Glass is also widely used in pendants and semi-flushed lights.
Fabric light fixtures can set a relaxing mood since they create a warmer effect. Although fabric shades are widely used in bedrooms, you can also apply this style in your dining room or living room.
Semi-flush and flush lights containing a fabric shade are also popular. However, if you intend to purchase a fabric light fixture, you should bear in mind that its color influences the noticeability of the fixture and the mood the lighting creates.
Crystal is commonly used in making chandeliers; however, it can also be used in some pendant lights and semi-flush fixtures. Although it can be more costly, it is stronger than glass ceiling light. In addition, crystal material is more attractive due to how light bounces off crystal surfaces.
Whether you choose a chandelier or another kind of ceiling light, an enormous crystal light fitting can be ideal for a large dining room. However, it can make a smaller room appear crowded.
Although metal is a rare light fixture material, this material is becoming more popular. Generally, it is suitable for modern designs. Metal is mainly used for rail and track lighting, but it can also be used for kitchen islands based on their industrial design.
There are many types of ceiling lights, as seen above. The type of ceiling light that you purchase should address your needs and preferences. It can help to ask yourself the following questions before buying ceiling lights:
The answer to this question mainly focuses on the type of lights you intend to purchase. For example, if the room which requires lighting is the study room or the kitchen, you should consider purchasing some task lighting. Besides, you can also use pendant lights to shine over the hob, desk, or work area.
Recessed is commonly used since it is smart, discreet, and elegant. It focuses mainly on the illumination subject instead of the light itself. This lighting fixture is suitable for developing ambient lighting to moderate the inside mood. Typically, this lighting fixture is ideal for relaxing areas and living rooms where the dominant lighting fixture is not there to create a design effect.
It is also advisable to have a rough idea of how to maintain and set up a lighting fixture before purchasing it. Some fixtures are simple to install, while others require expertise. Additionally, consider whether you will be able to reach the fixture while dusting or cleaning it. Although these practicalities may not carry as much weight as the design, color, and illumination power of the light source, they are necessary when implementing your lighting strategy.
The power of your ceiling lights may also influence what type of fixture you can find. Some of the options include LEDs, fluorescent tubes, halogens, and fluorescence globes.
Your choice of ceiling lights should conform to the style of your room as much as possible. For instance, if you prefer a vintage appearance, you can enhance your room using a set of antique ceiling light globes. On the other hand, if you are an enthusiast of modern-looking styles and intend to apply the same in your room, you should consider the minimalist Scandinavian style.
Finally, light fixtures should match with furniture and other items to create an impressive general appearance, giving the room a unique and fantastic look.
Whether your fixtures provide illumination or simply add a decorative element to certain parts of your home, keeping them clean will be crucial to maintaining their look.
This means getting rid of any dust, cobwebs, and bugs that can affect your lighting and reduce the lifespan of your ceiling lights. Below, we discuss in detail how to clean all of your ceiling lights.
Before you can begin cleaning your ceiling lights, ensure that you have your cleaning supplies close to your cleaning station. Since most ceiling lights will also be far out of reach, a ladder will be essential, so make it a point to have it in the right spot. Your ladder should be stable to avoid any mishaps, with a step stool also coming in handy for your elevation needs.
Your cleaning supplies should include a flat head screwdriver, lint-free cloth, all-purpose cleaner, and water. Dusting sheets will also come in handy, along with replacement bulbs to fix any damaged bulbs.
Turning off your power will be another crucial thing to consider before beginning your cleaning process. This will go a long way in maintaining your safety and those around you. Turn off your power at the switch or the breaker to eliminate any risk of electrocution. Since light fixtures also get hot when they are in use, ensure that you turn off your light at least an hour before starting your cleaning process.
You can also remove your light fixtures from their electrical ports to avoid water getting into the electrical points of contact. If, however, you prefer keeping them in place, make it a point to use a dusting tool during your cleaning. Damp clothes can still be used, but use slightly damp towels rather than cloths dripping with water or cleaning fluids.
Many lighting fixtures will tend to be slippery, a factor that could leave you with damaged bulbs and shades after slips and falls occur. Be sure to place protective materials such as towels and newspapers beneath your fixtures during your cleanup process. These will help to prevent breakages, saving you on the costs for replacements. They will also help you soak up any runoff from cleaning solutions and water, allowing an easy clean up process after you are done with your fixtures.
After you are done with the preparation, you can now move on to the cleaning stage. For starters, remove the shades if your ceiling lights have them. Place them on flat surfaces such as towels to ensure they are protected from scratches while also minimizing the spread of dust to other areas in your room. To easily reassemble your lighting fixtures after you complete your cleaning process, take photographs of how each fixture has been assembled. Ensure you do this to reduce the risk of misaligned fixtures in the end.
With your shades out of the way, you can now proceed to clean your frame. Lighting frames often come in different materials and finishes, with the majority calling for a specific set of cleaning guidelines. These include:
If your frame comes in etched glass, opal glass, or porcelain, begin by dumping any dirt from your glass fixtures into your trash bag. Next, use a lint-free cloth or a microfiber cloth to wipe your frame to get rid of dust particles. Ensure you clean both the interior and exterior of your frame. A damp cloth will be a better alternative for fixtures in damp conditions such as bathrooms or kitchens. Ensure that you wipe your light fixture properly to avoid any water spots. A glass cleaner can help with this, as these are designed to spot clean glass materials.
If your lights have removable shades, soak these in warm water. Mild dish soaps will come in handy here, but remember that they will get slippery, so ensure you handle them carefully. After this, wipe them with a dry towel. Avoid cleaning fixtures with gold finishes and those that are painted with water as these surfaces can easily get eroded.
Acrylic and plastic are also other straightforward materials to clean, with a lint-free cloth being the best option for getting rid of dirt. If you still have smudges on your fixtures, use a damp cloth to remove stubborn marks. While their maintenance resembles their glass counterparts, it is best to avoid washing them in water. Acrylic shades tend to spot easily and will likely leave your ceiling lights with water spots.
Metal light fixtures should also be wiped with a lint-free cloth, with a glass or metal cleaner coming in handy when you spot any greasy residue. If your metal fixtures have a patina or rubber finish, avoid using water or cleaners when cleaning them, since such light coatings can easily be wiped off during your cleanup. Liquid wax or non-abrasive paste will be your go-to for polished metal surfaces, helping you keep your polish intact.
Fabric and paper material shades can be wiped using canned air and dusting sheets. The canned air helps you blow away dust particles that have settled on your shade, while a dusting sheet allows you to get rid of any remaining dirt. Numerous fabric and paper materials will get damaged when in contact with damp clothes, so make sure you avoid using any wet cleaning agents during your cleanup process.
Crystal materials require a bit more care, with canned air coming in handy for your fixtures. Direct your canned air towards areas with the build-up to get rid of dirty surfaces. This will allow you to keep your crystal sparkling without causing damage from any abrasive cleaning materials.
If your fixture still has stubborn stains, add a few drops of mild soap to a spray bottle and spray your crystals with your solution. Dry them immediately with a microfiber cloth after wiping each section to help you get the proper polish. Where possible, you can also purchase a customized crystal chandelier cleaner to ensure your fixture remains spotless.
In addition to the above methods, crystal chandeliers can also be cleaned by utilizing the glove method, which will require a bit more work, with its advantage being that it is more efficient. For this, you will need a solution of chandelier cleaner and white cotton gloves.
With a ladder positioned safely beneath your fixture, dip your gloves in the cleaner while wearing them and let it absorb the solution. Next, run along each strand of crystal with your fingertips and clean off any dirt and grime. Based on the dirt level of your fixtures, change the solution as required to ensure you get clean crystals. Unlike microfiber clothes that require you to handle your fixtures with your bare fingers, the glove method ensures you avoid direct contact, allowing you to eliminate any fingerprint residues.
For wooden fixtures, consider using canned air if you have significant dust accumulation and a dusting cloth to wipe off excess debris. If your ceiling lights have raised grain wood, ensure you also wipe within the ridges, as dust will also settle in these spaces.
To clean your fluorescent lights, start by removing the lens, followed by the bulbs. Clean the inner surfaces with a soft and dry cloth. If you still have greasy spots, use a damp cloth and a mild detergent for a thorough cleaning. Remember to wipe your fluorescent tubes, as these will often cause dim lighting and energy waste due to dust accumulation. A slightly damp cloth can also come in handy where your tubes have stubborn stains. Cleaning products with alcohol in them will often result in abrasion, so ensure you avoid these.
Due to their shapes, bowl pendants are magnets for elements such as dust and bugs. Clean the bowl appropriately, remembering to use the correct guidelines for your type of pendant material. While doing this, cleaning your bulbs as dust build-up will also affect their lighting, especially if using halogen bulbs.
Drum-shaped pendants are also other fixtures that act as dust traps. Clean them with the right products while paying attention to the diffusers. For an easy cleaning time, remove the top and bottom diffusers to help you clean all surfaces with ease.
After you are done with your shades, next comes the light bulbs. Wipe each light bulb with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust. Dryer sheets also work well and will be an affordable alternative to microfiber clothes. Unlike your shades that can be cleaned using damp clothes, light bulbs will likely get damaged when wiped with these materials. Avoid any moist products when cleaning your light bulbs and spraying products that could damage the electronic components of your bulb.
If you have any damaged or dim bulbs, now is the best time to replace them. After completing your cleaning process, switch them up with new ones to ensure you continually benefit from a well-lit room.
Suppose you are looking for ways to reduce your cleaning time, consider working with a cleaning schedule. For starters, your ceiling lights will benefit from both routine maintenance and deep cleaning.
Regular maintenance will require you to adopt a weekly cleaning plan. Some fixtures accumulate dust particles faster than others, a factor that will require you to adopt a weekly cleaning schedule. Some components to keep in mind during your routine maintenance include bulbs, flush and semi-flush lighting, and downlights. To help you clean these items, a long handle duster will be your go-to, with a ladder also coming in handy when you need to clean your fixtures' uppermost surfaces.
Deep cleaning will often take up much of your time, with this type of maintenance being suited to semi-annual cleaning schedules. Fall and spring seasons will be the most suitable seasons for your deep cleaning in readiness for the hot and cold months.
Before beginning your deep cleaning, ensure that you have a plan for cleaning your ceiling lights, since fixtures such as chandeliers will often require a lot of work. You can employ an extra set of hands from family and friends with their help coming in handy during the assembly of your lights.
Lighting is an integral aspect of a home’s design and function. It helps in creating an appealing and comfortable living environment. Installing ceiling lights can significantly transform your home's appearance. It is essential to pay attention to factors such as style, material, and installation area before purchasing ceiling light fixtures.
