Recessed Lighting

When choosing recessed lighting, there are two main components you need to be aware of - recessed housing and recessed trims. In this guide, we'll discuss everything you need to know about both to decide which type of recessed lighting is right for your needs. 

Recessed Housing 

The housing is the first thing you need to consider when choosing recessed lighting. There are three main recessed lighting housings: new construction, remodel, and insulated. The type of housing you choose will be determined by the project you're working on. 

New construction housings are for projects where there is no ceiling material yet, and rough wiring is installed. These housings must be securely fastened to a junction box to wooden framing members. Remodel housings are for projects with an existing ceiling, and the hole will be cut through the ceiling material. These housings must also be attached to a junction box, but they have built-in bracketing that helps secure them. It's important to note that some remodel housings can be used in new construction applications if they are approved for such use. 

Insulated housings are for projects with insulation in the ceiling space. These housings have built-in thermal protection and must also be attached to a junction box. Some insulated housings come with integral springs that help to hold the housing in place, while others use special clips that attach to the joists or other framing members. 

Recessed Trims 

The trim is the second thing you need to consider when choosing recessed lighting. There are four main recessed lighting trims: baffle, open, regressed lens, and shower-rated trim. Your taste will largely determine the type of trim you choose, but there are some functional considerations. 

Baffle trims are the most common type of trim used with recessed lighting. They feature a deep cylindrical shape that helps to produce even light distribution and minimize glare from the bulb. Baffle trims can also help improve indoor air quality by reducing the amount of aerosolization that escapes into the living space from the attic. 

Open trims feature an open design that allows light to shine directly downward without any reflective baffles around the perimeter of the trim. These types of trims produce more focused light than baffle trims and can create a more dramatic look in a room. However, they can also produce more glare from the bulbs since nothing is blocking a direct view of them. 

Regressed lens trims feature a lens that sits slightly below the trim flange so that it's not visible when looking at the trim directly from eye level. These lenses help control light output and minimize glare while allowing light to shine directly down into the room below. Regressed lens trims are often used in commercial applications where controlled light output is necessary but a direct view of the bulbs is not desired. 

Shower-rated trim is a type of trim that has been specifically designed and tested for use in shower environments. These trimmers feature sealed lenses and gaskets that help keep moisture out so that they can safely be used in wet areas such as showers and bathrooms without fear of electrical shock or water damage.

In conclusion, when choosing recessed lighting for your home or business, you need to consider many things - from functional elements like housing and trim to aesthetic elements like style and finish. However, by taking your time to carefully consider all of your options, you're sure to find the perfect combination of form and function for your space.