Recessed Lighting vs Surface Mount: Which is better?

When it comes to lighting up your home, there are many factors to consider. One important decision is whether to go with recessed lighting or surface mount lighting.

Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to understand the difference between the two before making a decision. Here’s a quick rundown of recessed lighting vs surface mount lighting to help you decide which is right for your home.

What is Recessed Lighting?

Recessed lighting is a type where a fixture is installed into the ceiling so that it is flush with the surface. This gives the illusion that the light is coming from nowhere, which can create a very modern look. Recessed lights are often used in kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms as task lighting or accent lighting. We have a range of POWER-LITE recessed fixtures such as LED downlights, LED step lights & LED star lights.

What is Surface Mount Lighting?

Surface mount lighting, on the other hand, mounts directly onto the ceiling. This type of lighting is often used in hallways, laundry rooms, and bathrooms since it offers more light than recessed lighting. Surface mount lights are available in a variety of styles, including flush-mounted lights and semi-flush-mounted lights. Our POWER-LITE range includes many LED fixtures with surface mount installation options. Perfect for applications such as concrete slabs and exposed ceilings. Such as our LED Can Downlights, LED Panels & LED Strip lighting with Extrusion.

Benefits of Recessed Lighting

The main benefit of recessed lighting is that it doesn’t take up any space on the ceiling. This means that you have more freedom to use your ceiling for other things, like storage or decor. Additionally, recessed lighting can create a very sleek and modern look in your home. And since they’re installed into the ceiling, they’re also out of reach of small children and pets, making them safer than surface mount lights.

Benefits of Surface Mount Lighting

Surface mount lights offer a few advantages over recessed lights. First, they’re much easier to install since you don’t have to cut holes into your ceiling. Second, surface mount lights provide more light than recessed lights since they’re not confined by being installed in a hole. And third, surface mount lights are less expensive than recessed lights since they don’t require specialized equipment or installation techniques.

Drawbacks of Recessed Lighting

There are a few drawbacks to recessed lighting as well. First, they can be more difficult and time-consuming to install than surface mount lights. Second, if you ever need to replace a bulb, you’ll have to climb up into your ceiling to do so— which isn’t always easy (or fun). Finally, because they’re installed in holes in your ceiling, recessed lights can be more susceptible to leaks than surface mount lights.

Drawbacks of Surface Mount Lighting

While surface mount lighting has many advantages over recessed lighting, there are a few drawbacks as well. First, because they protrude from the ceiling, surface mount lights can be knocked off by tall people or pets—which can be dangerous (and messy). Second, surface mount lights can cast shadows on your ceilings—which some people find unattractive. Finally, because they’re mounted on the surface of your ceiling rather than being flush with it, surface mount lights can make your ceilings look shorter than they actually are.

So which is better —recessed lighting or surface mount lighting?

The answer depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a sleek and modern look for your home, then recessed lighting may be the way to go. But if you’re looking for an easier (and less expensive) installation process, then surface mount lighting may be better suited for you.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference—so choose whichever type of light you think will best meet your needs!

For lighting advice, contact our Team at Nedlands Group today on 1800 909 306 or email us at [email protected]