Ceiling Lights 101

Ever since cavemen built "light fixtures" into their caves so that they could paint (if you're interested, you can read more about that here), overhead lighting has been the most effective source of general and ambient lighting. In every home, ceiling light fixtures are a necessity, plus they have evolved over the ages to suit a huge variety of room lighting needs. Here are the basic ceiling light types and their most common uses.

Flush Mounts: Like the name suggests, these fixtures are installed flush to the ceiling. This means they are great for spaces with low ceilings or ones where doors might interfere with low-hanging fixtures. Plus, they're pretty easy to install and very versatile. However, they are not great for lighting large spaces. For flush mounts, make sure to find one with a design that allows lots of light to shine and to supplement its light with lamps or sconces for full illumination.

Semi-Flush Mounts: These differ from their flush cousins because they extend just below the ceiling. Light can therefore shine through the bottom and top of the fixture, so semi-flush mounts provide a more widespread glow. Semi-flush mounts do well in spaces that are too small for a chandelier, but still need a touch of light. In fact, some semi-flushes even look like chandeliers!

Track Lighting: Though this is really a semi-flush mount, track lighting is basically its own separate style. Track lights feature multiple, adjustable heads. This is a good choice for larger spaces like kitchens or living rooms because you can angle the light exactly where you need it most--and change it up on the fly.

Chandeliers: A lighting choice that has endured for thousands and thousands of years, chandeliers are hanging lights with multiple branching arms. However, they also come in a huge variety of styles, designs and sizes to fit pretty much any space, even bathrooms.

Pendants: Usually just one light source, pendants are less formal and more modern than chandeliers. Their smaller size also means they can fit in tighter spaces without overwhelming the room. Pendants, like chandeliers, are available in a wide array of designs and styles, as well as a few general shapes (drum, bowl and bell are popular).

Ceiling Fans: These fixtures combine lighting with climate control, helping you save money on your heating and cooling bills with just one object. Plus, most of them allow you to add a light kit if they don't already come with one.

Need more help picking the perfect ceiling lighting? Please contact us, talk with us on social media or call our trained lighting specialists at 1-866-688-3562. Sign up for our email newsletter today and score an additional discount!

Emma Harger-Young - Lights Online