Remember the days you had to turn the lights off ?
If you are considering a kitchen, bath or any other project in your home, more than likely you will have to make some decisions updating lighting. LED (light emitting diode) is the new standard in today’s remodeling.
LED lighting uses approximately 85% less energy than other types of lighting. It is flexible and efficient, plus LED bulbs are not as fragile as traditional candescent or fluorescent bulbs. They last between seven and 28 years — so even though they cost more upfront they pay off big in long term savings, especially on your electric bill. Another advantage is that LED bulbs don’t get hot — no more accidental minor finger burns when removing a bulb that is way too hot.
There are new and exciting possibilities when choosing LED lighting for your project. Lumens measure brightness. Lower temperature bulbs produce warm-whites, like a fire, while medium temperature bulbs produce neutral-whites, and higher temperature bulbs produce cool-whites or mimic daylight. The less lumens the dimmer the light, more lumens the brighter the light.
When remodeling your kitchen, also consider incorporating different types of LED lighting. There are various colors, styles, shapes and sizes to choose from. They can be used under cabinets, under island countertops, in pendant and recessed fixtures or on display cabinets. There are also dimmable LED light bulb options to satisfy your need for task and mood lighting.
For a creative yet functional option in the bathroom, an LED framed mirror or using LED lighting to backlight a wall or under a floating bathroom cabinet would be a good way to go. LED lighting is not only for interior use, it is also great for landscape lighting. Outdoors, these lights are very durable and energy efficient, just set your dusk to dawn timer.
With the latest technology craze, LED’s are now “smart.” This can transform the atmosphere of any space in your home. You can program your lights with a smartphone while you are home, and some can even control lights with your voice.
Enhance comfort and efficiency with LED lights. They are easy on the eyes and have less impact on your wallet.
This article was provided by a member of the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association. The Remodelers Council is dedicated to promoting professionalism and public awareness of the remodeling profession through education, certification and service to the Houston community. To reach the author directly email larry@abbottcontracting.com. For information on this article, please contact Lorraine Hart at lorraine@idealconsulting.net. To join the council or to find a professional remodeler in your area, please visit www.ghba.org.