There are many different forms of ceiling lighting, and you may want to consider a number of factors before making a decision. Figuring out the amount of light you will need to adequately illuminate a given area is a good idea and may guide you while shopping. It is also important to decide whether you want the ceiling lighting to be simple and functional or decorative and ornate.
One of the simplest and most common forms of ceiling lighting is the incandescent light bulb. An incandescent light bulb may be part of a fixture attached to the ceiling or part of an apparatus that hangs from the ceiling. The primary disadvantage of using this type of light bulb is their tendency to burn out quickly, requiring frequent replacement. For ceiling-mounted lights, changing the bulbs may be a hassle. One of the biggest advantages is the extremely large number of light fixtures that use incandescent bulbs.
Fluorescent lights are another popular form of lighting. These bulbs typically last longer than incandescent bulbs. They provide strong illumination for a long period of time, but some people consider the light to be harsh and unnatural when compared to the golden glow of incandescent lighting.
A chandelier is a fixture mounted on the ceiling which features arms or branches that hold lights. They traditionally held candles, but modern chandeliers are designed to hold many different types of lighting. Often considered decorative lighting, chandeliers can add to a room’s ambiance, and many people find them visually appealing.
Natural lighting is the simplest form of ceiling light but can be costly to obtain. Creating natural ceiling lighting, also known as a skylight, involves the installation of a window in the ceiling. A skylight allows sunlight to illuminate the space below, but it will only work on the top floor of a home and may be less useful when the sun is not shining. Another disadvantage of natural ceiling lighting is that you would need the other types of lighting at night, as the moon often provides insufficient illumination.
Solar-powered ceiling lights are popular with many people. You may want to use solar-powered lights to reduce your electricity expenses or have environmentally friendly ceiling lighting. Solar energy does have a major disadvantage because if the sun does not shine for a long period of time, solar lighting can become less effective.
Price may be a major consideration for many people. If you have a smaller budget, a simple and functional lighting fixture may be less expensive. Thrift stores sometimes have unique lighting options that are not costly and could add a distinctive look to a room.