Should You Install Recessed Lights on a Vaulted Ceiling?
Vaulted ceilings add elegance and dimension to any room. These slanted ceilings open the room to light and air, and they are the perfect backdrop to artwork.
One problem with vaulted ceilings is how to illuminate them. What’s the best way to light them? Can you install recessed lights on a vaulted ceiling? You can, but there are some reasons you may decide not to. Let’s examine the pros and cons of choosing recessed lights (cans) for your vaulted ceiling.
Recessed Lights on a Vaulted Ceiling?
You can install recessed lights anywhere. If you want them on your vaulted ceilings, consider these installation pointers.
Use dimmers: Because your lights will all come on at once, the brightness level may be too high for regular use. Use dimmers to control how much light you get in the room.
Place the lights away from the wall: Don’t install the lights next to the wall. Doing this will cause light to fall irregularly and create glare.
Install switches: Place the wall switches in a convenient location. You should install one at each end of the room.
Advantages to Installing Recessed Lights on a Sloped Ceiling
These lights are attractive, and using LED bulbs in them will help you save money. Many people like the clean, modern look of recessed cans. Unlike other lighting systems, they are permanent. Once they’re installed, you don’t have to worry about moving them.
Disadvantages to Installing Recessed Lights on a Vaulted Ceiling
Insulation: Recessed lights create a lot of heat, which can be damaging to your insulation. To minimize this effect, you must install them away from the insulation in the ceiling. This makes installation more complicated and expensive.
Moisture: Recessed cans can collect moisture. They can trap moisture between the ceiling and the roof, which leads to major roof damage.
Heat loss: Vaulted ceilings are beautiful, but they are thinner than regular ceilings. Displacing your insulation means the room with the vaulted ceiling will be hotter in summer and colder in winter.
Cost: Installing recessed lights on a vaulted ceiling can cost double the price of installing them on a regular ceiling.
How To Minimize the Problems with Recessed Lighting
If you want recessed cans on your vaulted ceiling, here are some things you can do to prevent major problems.
Hire a professional electrician: Some experienced homeowners can install recessed lights on a regular ceiling, but installing them on a vaulted ceiling requires skill and experience.
Use LED bulbs: LED bulbs stay cool and reduce the amount of heat a can radiates.
Install airtight fixtures: Ask your electrician to use airtight lighting fixtures.
What Else Can You Use?
There are many lighting alternatives you can use instead of recessed lights. Many people use drop lamps or pendant lights, which are currently very fashionable. If you want a sleek, modern look, try wall sconces, track lighting or LED strip lighting. Chandeliers are a stunning choice. They come in many styles and look great in vaulted ceilings.
Bottom Line: Are They a Good Idea?
Although recessed lights are a viable alternative for many rooms, we think there are better options for your vaulted ceilings. Consider different lighting styles to get bright, safe lighting on your sloped ceiling.
Call SESCOS for All Your Lighting Needs
If you need help installing recessed lights anywhere in your home, contact the lighting experts at SESCOS. We can help you choose lights for your vaulted ceiling or any room in your house. We’ll help you make the switch to LED bulbs and install your fixtures safely.