Recessed Lighting Installation Cost Breakdown
Understanding the detailed breakdown helps you plan your budget more effectively for recessed lighting installation.
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Cost Factor
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Minimum Cost
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Maximum Cost
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Description
|
|
Fixture
|
$20
|
$200
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The cost of the light fixture itself, including housing, trim, and bulb.
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IC-Rated Housing
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$7
|
$100
|
Safe for installation near insulation; prevents overheating.
|
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Non-IC-Rated Housing
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$6
|
$90
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Must be installed away from insulation; typically used in areas without insulation.
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Airtight Housing
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$10
|
$110
|
Seals off airflow, improving energy efficiency and preventing heat loss.
|
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Shallow Housing
|
$10
|
$150
|
Designed for ceilings with limited depth.
|
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Canless Fixtures
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$15
|
$130
|
Modern, sleek design without a traditional housing can; typically LED.
|
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Wet-Rated Housing
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$20
|
$100
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Suitable for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
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Vaulted Ceiling Housing
|
$20
|
$75
|
Special housing for angled ceilings; requires more labour.
|
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Labour (Per Fixture)
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$100
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$200
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Professional installation costs; includes wiring, setup, and testing.
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Dimmer Switch
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$75
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$150
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Optional feature to control light brightness.
|
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Wiring (Per Foot)
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$0.20
|
$2.00
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Costs for new wiring; varies based on material (copper is more expensive).
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|
Permits (Optional)
|
$50
|
$500
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Required for adding new circuits; depends on local regulations.
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|
Total Cost Per Fixture
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$100
|
$500
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Average total cost for one recessed light fixture, including all factors (Except Permits)
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How to calculate the cost of installing recessed lighting?
To calculate the cost of installing recessed lighting, consider factors such as the type of lights, the number of fixtures, and labour costs.
Room size & layout determine how many fixtures you'll need. Measure your room in square feet and decide on the layout pattern (perimeter, grid, etc.). The industry standard recommends installing one recessed light for every 25 square feet of ceiling space.
Fixture selection impacts overall costs. LED lights offer energy efficiency but carry higher upfront costs than traditional options.
The total installation cost can be calculated using this formula:
Total Cost = (X × Y) + (X × L × M) + A
Where:
For example, in a 12×14 foot room (168 square feet) with 7 recessed lights at $60 each, labour costs $95 per hour, taking 2 hours per fixture, and additional wiring costs of $250:
(7 × $60) + (7 × 2 × $95) + $250 = $1,990
Factors Affecting the Cost to Install Recessed Lighting
There are 9 main factors affecting recessed lighting installation cost: Housing type, ceiling material, trim type, bulb type, wiring requirements, light location, permits, labour, and finish type. Each element contributes significantly to your final price, from essential components like housing and wiring to aesthetic choices like trim style and finish colour.
Housing Type
There are two main housing types: IC rated and non-IC rated. In some cases, insulation can warp, melt, or emit VOCs when lighting is installed near it. IC-rated housing indicates that a light is safe to install near insulation, reducing fire and health hazards. IC-rated housing ranges from $7 to $100 per light, while non-IC-rated housing ranges from $6 to $90.
The following housing types might come in IC- or non-IC-rated versions depending on the manufacturer:
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Airtight Recessed Lights: Airtight housing creates a tight seal that stops air from flowing between different levels of the home, improving energy efficiency. This housing type costs between $10 to $110, depending on the size and other features.
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Shallow Recessed Lighting: Standard housing cans are typically installed five to six inches into the ceiling. Some homes have shallower ceilings that don't allow this much depth, in which case you'll need shallow housing cans, which range from $10 to $150 per can.
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Canless Recessed Lighting: You can also buy recessed lighting that doesn't have a can at all, which is called canless recessed lighting. With this type, the housing is installed directly into the ceiling, which lets the light sit completely flush, offering a minimal, streamlined appearance. This housing type ranges from $15 to $130 per fixture.
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Wet-Rated Recessed Lighting: Wet-rated housing protects the light from moisture. This housing type should be used in any space that sees a lot of moisture or rain, like bathrooms, patios, and gazebos. Prices range from $20 to $100, depending on features and size.
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Vaulted Ceiling Recessed Lighting: Vaulted ceilings refer to ceilings that aren't flat. These ceilings usually require recessed lighting to have vaulted housing for proper installation. Recessed lights for vaulted ceilings typically range from $20 to $75.
Each housing type has specific use cases, so choosing the right one depends on ceiling structure, insulation, and room moisture levels.
Ceiling Material
Ceiling material impacts both installation complexity and cost. Drywall ceilings offer straightforward installation at lower costs, as they're easier to cut through and work with.
Textured or specialized ceilings like tray or shiplap require additional precision and specialized tools, increasing labor time and costs. The installer must take extra care not to damage decorative elements.
Hard materials like wood or concrete present the greatest challenge, requiring specialized cutting equipment and substantially more time. These materials can double or even triple your installation costs compared to standard drywall.
Safety considerations outweigh cost concerns. Without proper electrical knowledge, DIY installation risks fire hazards and code violations. Professional electricians identify potential issues before they become problems.
A licensed electrician completes most standard installations in a few hours, whereas a homeowner might spend an entire weekend on the same job with potentially questionable results. For those lacking electrical experience, professional installation delivers peace of mind, code compliance, and significant time savings.
For drywall ceilings, a skilled DIYer might manage basic installs safely.
If you're considering a general lighting update, it's useful to understand the cost to install light fixtures. This article will provide you with detailed insights into the expenses associated with different types of light fixtures, helping you make an informed decision.
Trim Type
The trim refers to the border area that covers the gap between the light's housing and the ceiling. In recessed lighting, there are different housing types and also different trim types, like eyeball trim and reflector trim. Eyeball trim allows the light to swivel and direct to certain areas, while reflector trim offers a highly polished finish that reflects light.
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Trim type
|
Cost per fixture
|
Description
|
|
Baffle
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$5 - $80
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Popular for living rooms and bedrooms, casts a wide beam with a soft glow
|
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Open
|
$5 - $90
|
Most basic and affordable option, used if not prioritizing aesthetics
|
|
Reflector
|
$10 - $70
|
Highly polished finish, reflective coating in strong, focused lighting areas, such as kitchen, offices, commercial spaces
|
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Shower
|
$10 - $90
|
Suitable for bathrooms or other damp areas, waterproof design makes it more expensive
|
|
Wall wash
|
$10 - $100
|
Direct light towards a wall, creating a "washed" effect that highlights the wall's surface
|
|
Eyeball
|
$15 - $90
|
Adjustable and used for directional lighting, like highlighting artwork or architectural features
|
|
Gimbal
|
$15 - $60
|
Similar to eyeball trim but used in spaces requiring flexible lighting
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Decorative
|
$30 - $100
|
Various finishes, such as bronze, brushed nickel, enhancing the room's aesthetic
|
The trim in recessed lighting is the visible border that covers the gap between the housing and ceiling.
Bulb Type
Recessed lighting is often compatible with a variety of different bulbs, such as fluorescent, halogen, and LED bulbs. Each of these bulbs comes with different costs.
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Bulb type
|
Cost per bulb
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Description
|
|
Incandescent
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$1 - $5
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Warm, soft light, but less energy-efficient and has shorter lifespan
|
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Halogen
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$4 - $15
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Bright, white light, more energy-efficient than incandescent bulb
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Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL)
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$3 - $15
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A cooler, more diffuse light, and more energy - efficient than incandescent and halogen bulbs
|
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LED
|
$5 - $50
|
Most energy - efficient and long-lasting option available, with options for warm, cool, daylight color temperatures
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|
Reflector (R) and Parabolic aluminized reflector (PAR)
|
$6 - $25
|
Focus light and commonly used in recessed lightings, such as highlighting artwork or specific areas in a room
|
|
Smart
|
$15 - $60
|
Able to control lighting remotely, used in smart home setups and ideal for customizable and convenient lighting control
|
Recessed lighting is compatible with various bulb types: Fluorescent, halogen, and LED. Each offering different price points and energy efficiencies.
Wiring
Recessed lighting installation requires wiring and electrical work. The extent of the work can greatly affect the installation cost. Most houses are wired with either copper or aluminum wire; the two cannot be mixed, so what exists in a home determines what is used during a lighting install.
Newer homes tend to have aluminum, as it's less expensive. When adding recessed lighting during a new build, aluminum wiring costs between $0.26 and $0.59 per linear foot (for material only). Older homes tend to have copper wiring, which is quite a bit more expensive at $0.52 to $1.25 per linear foot of material.
Recessed lighting installation cost depends heavily on required wiring work and the home's existing wiring type.
If you’re planning to install a more intricate lighting option, such as a chandelier, you might want to know the cost to install chandelier. This article explores the factors influencing chandelier installation and the typical costs involved.
Light Location
Electricians charge more for recessed lighting in areas with obstacles like joists, heat ducts, or electrical wiring. If these barriers exist, expect an extra $200 per light for rerouting or adjustments. Labor expenses differ based on the room and its particular location within a home.
|
Location
|
Estimated labor cost in new build
|
Estimated labor cost in an existing one
|
Description
|
| Bathroom |
$275 - $375 |
$725 |
Installing fixtures in bathrooms can often be pricier because they require specialized options like IC-rated or airtight lights, along with the fact that the spaces are usually smaller and more difficult to work in. |
| Kitchen/Dining room |
$250 - $350 |
$450 - $650 |
The installation expenses may be higher because of the requirement for accurate positioning, the existence of appliances and cabinets, as well as any extra decorative lighting features. |
| Living room |
$200 - $300 |
$450 - $650 |
High ceilings and a sophisticated lighting design, especially with elaborate patterns or spacious areas, demand additional labor. |
| Bedroom/Hallway |
$100 - $200 |
$725 |
The installation expenses are usually more affordable because the process is quite simple. However, costs may rise if you're opting for a tray ceiling or features like dimmable or smart lighting. |
Kitchen recessed lighting costs the same as living rooms, depending on new or existing construction.
Permits
A permit won't be required if an old fixture is being replaced with a recessed light. But if a new circuit is being installed, a permit is required since this involves changing the house's wiring.
Permits can cost between $50 and $500. The price is determined by the local municipality and the scope of the project. Assuming they're registered with the city, a hired electrician can typically tell during a quick survey of the jobsite whether a permit will be required or not.
Permits aren’t needed for replacements but are required for new circuits involving wiring changes.
Labor
The cost for an electrician to install recessed can or canless LED lights will generally be between $200 and $250 per fixture. Professionals charge at a rate of $85 to $105 per hour, and each installation takes approximately two to three hours.
Electricians typically charge $200–$250 per recessed LED light, taking 2–3 hours at $85–$105 hourly.
Recessed Lighting Finish Type
Finish colour can influence the final cost as well, which can add a personalized touch to your house lighting. You can decide whether a traditional white or brushed nickel or bronze to customize your recessed lighting trim.
Finish selection affects both cost and aesthetics:
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Finish colour
|
Cost per piece
|
Description
|
|
White
|
$5 - $20
|
Most common and affordable finish for recessed lighting trims, blends seamlessly with most ceilings
|
|
Black
|
$10 - $25
|
Often used to create a contrast with lighter - coloured ceilings or as a design element, popular in contemporary or industrial - style interiors
|
|
Brushed Nickel
|
$15 - $40
|
Ensuring the housing can safely come into contact with insulation, maintain a cooler temperature, preventing overheating and reducing energy loss
|
|
Bronze
|
$20 - $50
|
Popular in traditional or rustic settings, more expensive due to its unique look and materials used
|
|
Chrome
|
$20 - $45
|
High - gloss finish makes it more expensive but provides a striking, polished look
|
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Copper
|
$25 - $60
|
More expensive due to the cost of the material and the craftsmanship required to achieve a high - quality finish
|
|
Custom
|
$25 - $100
|
Allow homeowners to match the trim exactly to their interior decor, most expensive options
|
|
Gold
|
$30 - $80
|
An expensive option due to the material and the specialized process required to achieve the gold finish
|
Finish color affects cost, allowing customization with options like white, brushed nickel, or bronze trims.
Additional Recessed Lighting Installation Costs
Beyond the main cost factors, five additional considerations can impact your total project cost: New construction versus existing ceilings, necessary drywall repairs, indoor versus outdoor applications, and custom features. These elements often appear as "surprise" costs if not accounted for in initial planning.
New Construction vs. Ceiling With Pre-Existing Lights
Installing recessed lighting typically costs less if you're working in a ceiling with pre-existing lights. If this is your situation, expect to pay $200 to $300 to install each fixture and $800 to $2,160 for an entire project.
Building lights into a completely new ceiling usually costs a bit more in time and labour. You could pay up to $500 for a single light fixture and between $800 to $2,880 for an entire setup.
Drywall Repairs
If you're installing recessed lighting in an existing home (versus a new build), you'll often need to cut into the drywall to do it. If this is the case, you should factor drywall repairs into your overall costs.
Drywall repairs cost $300 to $900, on average, depending on the project. Repairs due to recessed lighting installation will likely fall close to the lower end of that range.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor recessed lighting typically costs more to install than indoor recessed lighting since there are fewer ideal locations, and outdoor lighting installations often require additional electrical work. However, you don't usually need as many outdoor lights to illuminate a space, compared to indoor spaces. Outdoor recessed lighting ranges from $300 to $550, while indoor recessed lighting usually costs $100 to $480.
Customizations
Dimmer switches allow you to control the brightness of your new recessed lighting depending on the ambiance you want to create. If you choose to tack on a dimmer switch to your installation, you can expect to pay an extra $125, on average.
Speaking of switches, you can install a wall panel that houses a variety of switches to control your home's lighting system, including dimmer and/or standard switches. Wall panels typically cost $50 to $100 to install.
DIY Recessed Lighting Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
The cost to install recessed lighting as a DIY project is about half as expensive as hiring a professional. If you'd normally pay an electrician $100 to install one light fixture, you'll pay about $50 for the necessary materials and equipment to do it on your own. In the end, the final price will depend on the price of the light fixtures you choose rather than the labour fees.
You can save money by installing recessed lighting yourself. Pros usually charge $85 to $105 per hour to install recessed lighting, which typically takes at least two hours to complete. DIYing this project means you can skip labour costs altogether.
DIY recessed lighting costs about half of professional installation by saving labor fees, with total cost depending on fixtures.
6 Tips to Reduce Costs While Installing Recessed Lighting
Smart planning and strategic choices can significantly reduce your recessed lighting installation costs without sacrificing quality or aesthetics.
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Choose the right type of recessed lights: Although LED recessed lights in general have a higher upfront cost, they are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan, avoiding frequent replacement or high monthly electricity bills. In addition, standard trim and housing options can help keep costs down, compared to custom or decorative trims, which are functional and still visually appealing.
-
Plan your layout carefully: Planning your layout to reduce the number of recessed lights installed and place those lights strategically to maximize coverage can allow you to use fewer fixtures without sacrificing light quality. At the same time, installing the new recessed lights while using existing wiring will also reduce the need for additional electrical work, leading to lower cost.
-
DIY installation where possible: You can save on labour costs by doing some of the prep work yourself. Some basic DIY tasks you might be comfortable doing can be marking out where the lights will go and cutting holes in the ceiling. For those having some electrical knowledge or experience, installing the lights themselves can save a significant amount of money. However, as for these minor installations, you must prioritize local codes and safety regulations.
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Hire the right professional: In case the installation requires complex works, it is recommended to find a professional to do it for you, by looking for a licensed electrician with good reviews and a fair rate offered through personal selection.
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Timing matters: As mentioned above, installing recessed lights in a new construction or a major renovation housing is usually cheaper than retrofitting them into an existing ceiling. The costs can be reduced if you choose to add recessed lights at the same time you have done the construction or renovation stages. Bundling the installation with other projects can sometimes help get the overall labour costs lower.
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Take advantage of rebates and discounts: You can check with your local utility provider if there are any available rebates for installing energy - efficient lighting, such as LED recessed lights. Moreover, keep an eye out for sales on lighting fixtures and materials, especially on holidays or seasonal sales.
Smart planning and strategic choices reduce recessed lighting costs without compromising quality or aesthetics.
Getting estimates from Recessed Lighting installers
-
Request detailed, itemized quotes from at least three licensed electricians to compare costs and services
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Verify contractor credentials including proper licensing, insurance, and certifications for electrical work
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Ask for references from previous recessed lighting installation projects they've completed
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Discuss timeline expectations and get the completion date in writing
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Ensure the quote includes all potential costs: fixtures, wiring, switches, drywall repair, and permit fees
-
Clarify warranty terms for both materials and workmanship
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Confirm whether the electrician will handle permit applications and inspections
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Ask about their experience with your specific ceiling type and preferred fixture models
-
Discuss payment schedule, never pay the full amount upfront
-
Get all terms, conditions, and guarantees in writing before work begins
Request detailed, itemized quotes from at least three licensed electricians to compare costs and services.
If you're considering pendant lights, it's essential to understand the cost to install pendant light in general. Whether you're updating a space or adding new features, knowing the installation costs can help you budget for your project effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does it cost to install 4 Recessed Lighting?
As mentioned above, the cost of installing a recessed light is between $100 to $500. So we multiply by 4 to get the installation cost from $400 to $3000. However, when you increase the quantity, the cost of materials and labor will go up too. So, this number is just an estimate, the actual costs may be higher.
What is the average labour cost to install a Recessed Lighting?
The average labour cost to install recessed lighting ranges from $85 to $105 per hour, with most fixtures requiring 2-3 hours of work, totalling $170-$315 per fixture. Factors affecting this rate include ceiling accessibility, wiring complexity, and your geographic location.
To optimize costs without sacrificing quality, schedule multiple fixtures at once, have all materials ready before the electrician arrives, as well as consider basic preparation work yourself like furniture removal and clearing workspace.
How much does it cost to assemble a Recessed Lighting?
Assembling a recessed lighting fixture typically costs between $20 and $50 in labour, plus $30-$200 for the components. The final assembly cost varies based on fixture complexity, housing type, and whether trim and bulbs are included or purchased separately.
To keep assembly costs down, choose fixtures with straightforward designs, consider integrated LED options that eliminate separate bulb purchases, and look for models with tool-free installation features that reduce assembly time.
Do you need an electrician to install a Recessed Lighting?
While self-installation is possible for those with electrical experience, hiring a licensed electrician is strongly recommended for recessed lighting. Professionals ensure that the installation is completed to the highest quality without worrying about future problems.
The modest cost of professional installation ($200-$250 per fixture) provides significant value through safety assurance and proper fixture placement on lighting solutions that complement your space.
Conclusion
Recessed lighting offers a sleek, modern look that brightens up your space without taking up visual room. It makes any area feel bigger and more inviting. Plus, it’s super versatile — perfect for everything from task lighting to setting the mood.
Putting together a detailed cost table for installing recessed lights really pays off, it helps you plan your budget and avoid surprises. IndochinaLight hopes this article gives you the useful info you need to make smart lighting choices for your home.
IndochinaLight - IndochinaHomeDecor LLC
- Address: 30 N Gould St Ste. N, Sheridan, WY 82801
- Phone: (+)1 307 249 0594
- Email: service@indochinalight.com
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