With Recessed Lighting, the light is focused on what is being illuminated, as opposed to traditional lighting which draws attention to the fixture itself. Recessed Lighting can be used in combination with other light fixtures to add needed light to a room when one fixture just isn't enough. 

Q: How many fixtures do I need?

A: That will depend on the room size and function along with the recessed lighting fixtures you choose to use.  In general, for standard 8 foot ceilings, 100 watt recessed lighting fixtures will be spaced 2 feet apart. 150 watt recessed lighting fixtures will be spaced 3 feet apart when using Par or R-Type bulbs or 4 feet apart when using standard “A-type” bulbs.

Q: What size recessed trims should I use?

A: This is more of an aesthetics question and will depend on personal style and feel of the room. For smaller rooms 3-4 inch recessed trims will fit the space well.  Larger rooms that also have higher ceilings can use 5-8 inch recessed trims.  Directional spot trims are perfect for illuminating walls or art work since light can be re-directed if needed.

Q: What kind of housing will I need?

A: Part 1: There are 2 types of housings for most recessed lighting applications: Remodel and New Construction.  Remodel housings are used in existing ceilings where a hole is cut (please refer to housing installation instructions) and is wired through the ceiling.  New construction housings will be installed between rafters before a ceiling is installed and is generally only used when a house is first being built.

Part 2: If your ceiling has insulation then an IC-rated housing will be required so that insulation can touch the surface of the fixture without causing a fire hazard.  These housings are typically larger to create space around the heat source of the recessed fixture.  Non-IC rated housings can be used in non-insulated ceilings or can be used with insulation ONLY if 3 Inches of space is present on all sides of the housing.