A Look At How To Use LED Step Lights In Indoor Spaces

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A Look At How To Use LED Step Lights In Indoor Spaces

Lighting has come a long way and it is now seen as both a necessity as well as a way to improve the look and aesthetics of your home. Stairways and changes in level within your home can be highlighted through the use of step lights and they are not only decorative but also will help you and your family to be safe. Most people experience tripping on uneven surfaces or on the stairs, especially at night. As a result, step lights will help to reduce this significantly and prevent any potential injuries. These lights can also assist the visually impaired and mobility impaired. In addition to safety, these lights can be used in both subtle and dramatic ways that will undoubtedly add a great deal of personality to your home.

Stair Lights

When you need to get stair lights for your home, you need to ask yourself a few questions. Two of the most important ones are:

  1. Where exactly should the lights be placed?
  2. Which types of lighting are the best? LED or neon lights?

Thankfully, there are lots of different options which makes answering these questions relatively easy. When it comes to stepping lights, most people view these types of lights as accessory lighting within the home. As a result, you will need to have other forms of illumination such as ceiling lights, ceiling light fixtures that are pre-mounted, wall sconces, chandeliers etc. Step lights can be used to create dramatic lighting in addition to being solely functional and the next thing you need to decide is where you should install them. The three main places to do so are in the step itself, on the staircase wall or on the banister/handrail.

LED Step Lights In The Step Itself

When it comes to placing lights in the step itself, you will not have to necessarily place lights on each step, however, you will need to ensure that the lights create enough glow so that there aren’t any dark spots. Each individual light can be placed vertically in the riser or horizontally on the thread.

In the event that you choose to install the lights horizontally on the thread, you can alternate them along the stairway or you can place them only on one side. If they are installed in the riser, then they will typically be centered.

If there is an open staircase and LED lights are being used, then the lights can be placed on the bottom of the tread so that the light shines directly on the step that is directly below. However, if you choose to do this, then you will need to decide on the trim and fixtures beforehand.

On The Wall Of The Staircase

Next, another very effective way to light an indoor staircase is to mount lighting on the wall, next to the staircase. It is a great way to highlight the change from one level to another as well as highlight all of the stairs, making the steps quite visible.

Wall mounted lights are best placed when there is one after you make three or four steps on the staircase. When this is done along the entire length of the staircase, it will look quite uniform and provide sufficient lighting. Alternatively, you can use wall mounted scones but they need to be placed in such a way that there are absolutely no head bumps. It is better to have three or four sconces along the staircase as opposed to one large sconce.

Handrail Lighting

Another option is to create lighting along the handrail or banister. This can be done with an LED rope or strip that can be wound around the railing. It can also be placed in a straight line from the top of the railing to the bottom. This type of lighting can be very dramatic, especially in the night. However, it may not provide enough light to illuminate all of the stairs.

Types Of Lighting

There are many types of lighting from HTTPS://LEDTREADLIGHT.COM that can be used and you will need to decide on the type of lighting for your staircase.

Surface Mounted Or Recessed Lights

You will need to decide on whether you want your lighting to be placed flush against the step or the wall or if you want the lighting fixtures to be placed on top of it. It is highly recommended that you place your lighting so that is flush to the surface since a surface mounted light can cause you to trip or bump into it.

If you want to get lights on the wall next to the staircase, then recessed step lights can really add a sophisticated look and appeal. However, if you want to have a more dramatic look or add creative flair, then surface-mounted fixtures are the better alternative.

In the event that you’re placing lights on the handrail, then you will likely not be able to have recessed lighting. You can only create this effect by tucking the lights out of sight and use the thinnest lights that you can find.

Battery Powered Or Hardwired Lights?

There are pros and cons of getting either battery powered or hardwired lights. Battery powered lights are extremely easy to install and you can generally only use them indoors. Battery powered lights are also not as attractive since they come in limited styles and they typically get broken much easier. Hardwired lights are typically more stylish and you can get a wide range of styles and looks. However, they will cost more and you will need a professional to install them.

What Color Lights?

One of the best things about using LED lights is that LED technology is always changing and advancing and you can get as many color options as you desire. You can literally play and create different combinations of lights if you choose a color changing LED light kit.

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