A common feature of homes built during the 1980s, vaulted, or pitched ceilings present many challenges and opportunities when it comes to lighting.
Unlike normal ceilings, which are flat, a vaulted ceiling slopes upwards, rising to an angular peak many metres from the floor.
While a vaulted ceiling adds instant value and character to a home, the angle and height of the ceiling restricts the type of fixtures that can be used. Fortunately, there are many lighting strategies that can be used to create ample light and enhance the visual appearance of the room, all of which can be achieved affordably with LED Lights.
Low hanging luminaires, such as pendants and chandeliers, are elegant and decorative lighting options for any ceiling and will help to close down the distance between your fixtures and the floor, and create a more even distribution of light. There are also many types and styles available, from contemporary brushed steel to vintage sheik, all of which are compatible with LED. As pendant lights and chandeliers carry considerably more weight than flush fixtures, it is important to install junction boxes that can support their weight.
Recessed light fixtures designed specifically for sloped ceilings provide a simple, unobtrusive lighting option. The fixtures are installed at an angle so that the light sits flush against the angles ceiling. Several rows will be necessary to provide adequate coverage and a dimmer switch can be used to vary the ambience. Remember, if you are using dimmable LED, always make sure you upgrade to a low load trailing edge dimmer switch.
Tacklighting is a less discrete option, but still provides ample light without overpowering the aesthetic of the room. Track lights feature several fixtures attached to solid metal track and can be installed directly onto the ceiling or suspended using cables. One of the chief benefits of track lighting is that the fixtures can be independently positioned and used to create points of interest within the room. As most track lights are low voltage, it is worth checking the compatibility of your existing transformers when upgrading to LED Spotlights.
Finally, artificial illumination should always be complemented with plenty of natural light. Skylights are a dramatic feature in vaulted ceilings and allow plenty of light to flood in during the day. Tinted caps and venetian blinds can be used to control the level of light and help regulate the temperature on hot days. A ceiling fan fitted with LED Spotlights will also help promote circulation.
Due to the height of the ceiling, changing the light fixtures on a vaulted ceiling can be at best a hassle and worst dangerous. All LEDs have a life expectancy of between 30,000 and 50,000 hours, so you won't have to worry about changing them for many years to come.
Choosing the Correct Number of LED Downlights
While a single downlight can be used to create a focal point within a room, several or more downlights are needed to provide enough illumination to light an entire room. The question is, how many are needed?
The Pros and Cons of LED Lighting
The lighting industry landscape has been undergoing somewhat of a renaissance of late. The energy guzzling incandescent bulb, which has been around since the late nineteenth century,
Some Advantages of LED Strip Lights
LED Strip Lights offer a number of advantages over more traditional luminaires, such as incandescent, halogen and fluorescent.
