Of all the rooms in the home, the basement is often neglected because of the lack of adequate light in the underground parts of the building. However, as kids get older or, maybe just as the heat of summer chases the inhabitants underground, the basement often becomes an important living space. While any elaborate basement renovation often involves a new lighting system, a more limited re-design might not call for intricate electrical hook-ups or expensive new fixtures in the ceiling. What follows are some easy do-it-yourself tips for brightening the back rooms and basements of most multi-level homes.
First, florescent lights can usually be installed with a minimum knowledge of electrical engineering. Most hardware stores will sell florescent lighting fixtures that are easy to secure with screws to the joists in the basement. The switches can either be self contained (on a wire which you plug into an existing outlet), or else some re-wiring will be necessary. This is not an overly taxing task though. Often, an existing light fixture can be taken out and the new fixture hooked up to the vacated connections. If absolutely required, a branch can be run from an existing outlet to create a new outlet or switch. Florescent lights are best if there will be activities in the space that require a high level of visibility, such as exercise or, for example, building a model train set.
Another cheap, do-it-yourself, lighting set-up is a series of lamps and string lights. Sometimes there is strength in numbers when it comes to lighting. If the basement is to act like a second living room, high powered florescent lights might not be necessary. In fact, a better look and more soothing atmosphere can be accomplished by a variety of floor and table lamps. Have fun. Go to a few garage sales or flea markets and even department stores to find the perfect lamps for your basement den. Also, never underestimate the illuminating capacity of a string of Christmas lights.
If the purpose of your basement is an art or sewing room, you might not need new and elaborate fixtures. Often a tripod spotlight, such as those found on night time construction sights and auto shops where focused light is needed, will serve your purpose well. Usually this can be the best solution for a basement with few creature comforts and is just a functional space for doing the dirty work involved with most hobbies and projects. Moreover, the tripod light fixtures are portable, so when the project is done and the space is no longer in use, you have not invested any serious time or money in lighting up an unused space of your home.
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