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Factors That Influence Basement Lighting Design
Feb 25, 2021
Your basement deserves good and safe electrical and lighting design. Otherwise, the space might be dark, and you will be reluctant to use it. Basement lighting design requires skill and experience. Below are some factors that determine the best lighting system for your basement.
Function
First, determine how you plan to use your basement and match the lighting design to it. The matching is critical since different things call for different light systems. For example, you may need:
- A table lamp for your desk if you use your basement as a home office
- Recessed lighting that is out of reach of kids if the basement is a play area
- Multiple light sources for even lighting of a basement kitchen
Many people use their basements for multiple purposes. If the same applies to you, then a one-size-fits-all lighting approach won't fit your needs. Instead, you need different layers of lighting for different tasks.
Ceiling Height
Ceiling height affects the type of lighting fixtures you can install. An adult of average height should be able to operate in your basement. For example, you should avoid hanging fixtures, chandeliers, or pendant lighting fixtures if your ceiling is relatively low. In such a case, recessed lights work best since these fixtures don't protrude out of the ceiling.
Design and Construction
The basement design or type determines how much natural light streams into your basement. The amount of natural light determines the number, intensity, and placement of your lighting fixtures.
Consider a walkout basement, which has doors and windows on the ground level, and you can easily walk in and out of. A walkout basement receives plenty of natural light due to the location of the doors and windows. Such a basement doesn't require extensive indoor light — a fixture or two may be enough.
The basement's construction material also affects the ease of fixing or relocating electrical and lighting fixtures. For example, cement block construction restricts the lighting mounts you can use. Also, basement wiring runs work best on framing. Limited framing also limits the wiring you can install, which affects the location and number of lighting fixtures you can have.
Finishing State
If your basement is finished, then the finishing is likely to affect your lighting. For example, dark hardwood flooring might darken your basement, especially if the finishing is not reflective. In such a case, you need adequate light intensity to compensate for the darkness and brighten your basement.
Also, fitting recessed lights in an unfinished basement is easier than doing the same thing in a finished basement. In a finished basement, you might struggle to cut a hole in the ceiling for the electrical runs.
The decorations and overall aesthetics of a finished basement also affect lighting design. For example, industrial-style lighting fixtures work well with unfinished basements with exposed electrical and plumbing fixtures.
Safety
Lastly, understand that your lighting and electrical installations' point and design affect your safety in the basement. Here are some useful tips for safe lighting:
- Ensure all pathways, hallways, and stairways are properly lit and bright.
- Place three-way light switches at all entry points to allow you to control the lights irrespective of location.
- Install all wiring, fixtures, and outlets off the floor to avoid damage and danger in case of a flood.
- Install ground-fault-circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles to reduce the risk of injury in case of a fault.
Consult a professional electrician for other safety measures.
Beckstoffer-Welsh Inc. has over four decades of experience in the electrical industry. We can install, upgrade, or repair all your electrical installations. Contact us
for a consultation in your basement electrical design and benefit from our professional services.
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