If you’re working on remodeling your kitchen, one of the small elements that can make a big difference in both the aesthetic value and functionality of the space is the addition of under-cabinet lighting. This kind of lighting will come in handy for everyday use, while also potentially increasing the value of your home.
If you’re unfamiliar with the idea of under-cabinet lighting, it’s pretty much exactly what it sounds like: light fixtures that you install right underneath your cabinets. This means you don’t have to worry about your cabinets blocking the overhead lights, and you’ll still have plenty of illumination for food prep and other kitchen tasks. Visually, the lighting also adds a lot of depth and interest to your kitchen.
Here’s a quick overview of some of the things you should know about adding lighting under your custom cabinetry in Jackson, MS during your kitchen renovation. Reach out to your remodeling contractor to learn more about your options.
Types of lighting
You’re going to have plenty of options available to you as you investigate under-cabinet lighting. First, you’ll need to decide if you want hard-wired lighting, plug-in lighting or battery-operated lighting. This will influence how difficult the lighting is to install and how much money you can expect to pay.
Hard-wired lighting allows you to flip on the lights with a switch. This is the most expensive option. Plug-in lighting will have a switch on the light itself, and you’ll plug it into an outlet. The cheapest option is battery-operated lighting, which must be turned on individually and will require you to occasionally replace the batteries as they wear out.
Next, you’ll need to select the format of the lighting you’ll be using. The most common formats are light bars and light pucks. The bars are rectangular and offer light to a much larger area, while the pucks are small and round and concentrate light on just one particular area. Your choice depends on how much space you need to light up and the tasks you expect to be performing in that particular space.
About the light
Beyond the types of lighting you want, you’re also going to need to consider the actual light. What sort of bulbs will you use for your under-cabinet lighting? LED offers the most benefits, as they are the most energy efficient and still provide a wide range of lighting colors and warmth. However, they are more expensive than your standard incandescent or halogen bulbs. Ultimately, your choice comes down to how much you’re willing to spend and how much you prioritize energy efficiency.
Under-cabinet lighting is easy to install, helps you cut down on your energy bills, allows you to avoid shadows that might otherwise cover your prep areas and gives some unique style and flair to your kitchen. For more information about adding it to your custom cabinetry in Jackson, MS, or with general questions about remodeling your kitchen, we encourage you to contact the team at Kitchen Kreators Ltd. today.