Are you building a new garage and are having trouble wrapping your head around all the different lighting types? Maybe you’re looking to change your current garage lighting. We’ve compiled these tips to help.
The first thing to do is sketch your garage
Plan how you want your garage to be set out and what you will use it for:
- Workbench area
- Storage area
- Tools and other items attached to the wall
- Room for appliances like fridges, central vacuum systems, etc.
If you have high ceilings, you’ll have extra space above the garage door. Think about how you want to use it – it might come in handy as extra storage!
Once you’ve determined the space and layout of your garage you’ll be able to decide which type and strength of lighting is best.
What kind of lighting options are available on the market?
There are several different lightbulb types currently available:
Fluorescent
This first lighting type is the kind you’ll normally find in garages, generally mounted to ceilings. Fluorescent bulbs have a tubular shape. Light is produced when the mercury vapour atoms are ionized and the colour emitted depends on the phosphor coating inside the tube. Fluorescent bulbs are also commonly referred to as fluorescent tubes or lamps.
CFL or Compact Fluorescent Lamp
Compact Fluorescent Lamps are available in many different shapes and sizes, you’ll have no doubt seen the spiral shaped ones before. They produce a brighter, more natural looking light and use 75% less energy than standard incandescent bulbs, and they stay cool to the touch. They last about ten times longer than standard incandescent bulbs with an average life of 10,000 hours.
Halogen
Halogen bulbs are not as energy efficient as CFLs but will save you up to 33% in energy costs compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. This type of bulb is mercury-free and lasts up to 3,000 hours. Like CFLs, they are available in a wide range of models so you’re bound to be able to find one that’s right for you.
LED
Light Emitting Diodes, more commonly known as LEDs are the most energy efficient bulbs available, saving you up to 90% in energy costs. The main disadvantage of this type of bulb is their initial cost, although with an extremely long life and low energy usage, you’ll quickly recuperate this cost in savings. LEDs are mercury- and lead-free. They also stay cool to the touch. An ideal choice for accent lighting that requires a directional beam.
But which is the best option for me?
Most people will tell you that fluorescents are the best choice for general lighting purposes. The only drawbacks being that they take quite a while to reach maximum brightness and do emit an audible buzz.
There are also a range of fluorescents to choose from: The T5, T8 and T12. The T represents the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch. We would suggest the T8 because:
- It has a higher energy efficiency than the bigger T12, but produces the same amount of light.
- The light seems more natural.
- Unlike most fluorescents that come with instant-start ballasts renowned for burning bulbs out too quickly, most T8 bulbs come with rapid-start ballasts.
- We would suggest buying 4-foot tubes, which are easier to handle and are more energy efficient that 8-foot tubes.
The last thing you have to decide is what kind of light intensity you want, warmer (3000K) or cooler (5000K).
Don’t forget about additional lighting in the areas you work most often. Last but not least, you’ll need to choose your exterior lighting. We believe CFLs are the best choice here.
Are you thinking about changing your garage door?
Get in touch with us at 866-436-6777 if you have any questions about which type of garage door is best for you. You can also call in to our showroom. We would love to show you our range of garage doors and help you select the best one for your style of home. You can also request a quotation online.
If you’ve got a few minutes, why not try out our design center by uploading a photo of your house? It will give you a realistic idea of what your new garage will look like. You can also have a look at our image gallery.
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