If you’re shopping for wall lighting, it can be a confusing process. There are so many different types to choose from and they can all come in a range of styles. Ultimately, your personal tastes will determine which fixtures are right for your home. However, there are a few general tips that will help you make the most of your purchase.
HEIGHT AND SPACING
When hanging wall lights, consider the heights of people in your family and how tall ceilings are. The ideal ceiling height for wall light is 5.5 to 6 feet, but that can vary depending on the size and type of fixtures you use.
Choosing the best lighting for your home will allow you to create a space that you love. You can use wall lights to highlight features in a room, add accents and even create an overall mood.
To ensure your fixtures look their best, it’s important to plan out your installation carefully. To achieve this, you’ll need to determine where each fixture will go and how far apart they should be.
Placement is an important consideration for any light fixture, but it’s especially crucial for wall sconces. It’s best to install them at a distance that will not block anyone’s view, but will still allow the light to illuminate your home.
The best way to measure the distance from your wall to your light is to find a reference point, such as an existing fixture. Then, measure the space around that fixture and multiply by a factor of two to account for the width of your wall.
Once you have the dimensions of your fixture, cut out the appropriate size hole in the wall. This can be done with a drywall saw or with a hole saw. The drywall hole should be large enough for the round electrical box and a screw to fit through, but not so big that it will damage the wall.
If the box comes with a paper template for cutting into the drywall, mark the spot where you want to drill the hole. If you don’t have a paper template, turn the box backwards and use its edges as a guide.
Stepping back and examining the wall, check that the hole is wide enough to accommodate the box. If it is, use the drywall anchors included in the kit to secure the plate into the wall.
Wiring a sconce
To wire a sconce, you’ll need to run a wire from the light switch to the electrical box. You’ll also need to connect the wire to the sconce itself. In some cases, you’ll have to run a longer length of wire from the switch to the box to make sure you have enough to reach the sconce itself.
ADA Guidelines
If you have commercial spaces, you may need to adhere to ADA guidelines when installing outdoor wall lights. For example, ADA-compliant fixtures must not protrude more than 4-inches from the wall they’re mounted on. For more information, visit the ADA website.
