Understanding Your Shed’s Purpose
Before you start shopping for lighting fixtures, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of how you plan to use your steel shed. The lighting needs for a shed can vary widely depending on its intended purpose. Here are some common shed uses and their corresponding lighting requirements:
Storage Shed: If your steel shed will primarily serve as a storage space for tools, equipment, or other items, you’ll want ample and evenly distributed lighting. Overhead lighting fixtures, such as fluorescent tubes or LED panels, can provide the necessary illumination. Consider adding motion-activated lights for convenience.
Workshop Shed: For a shed that doubles as a workshop, task lighting becomes essential. Install task lights above workbenches and other work areas to ensure that you have sufficient brightness for detailed tasks. A combination of overhead lighting and task lighting is ideal for workshops.
Gardening Shed: If you plan to use your shed for gardening activities, natural light is valuable. Consider including windows or skylights to maximize daylight. Additionally, you can supplement with LED grow lights to extend your gardening hours into the evening.
Recreational Shed: If your steel shed is a place for relaxation, hobbies, or gatherings, softer and more ambient lighting is desirable. Think about incorporating decorative lighting fixtures such as pendant lights or wall sconces to create a cozy atmosphere.
Calculating the Lighting Requirements
Once you’ve identified your shed’s primary purpose, you’ll need to calculate the lighting requirements. The amount of light needed is typically measured in lumens, and it depends on the shed’s size and function. Here’s a general guideline:
Storage Shed: Aim for around 20-30 lumens per square foot. For a 100-square-foot storage shed, you’d need approximately 2,000-3,000 lumens.
Workshop Shed: Workshops require more illumination, typically around 50-75 lumens per square foot. A 200-square-foot workshop would need 10,000-15,000 lumens.
Gardening Shed: If you’re using grow lights, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the coverage area and light intensity. For natural lighting, maximize windows or skylights.
Recreational Shed: The lighting level in a recreational shed depends on your personal preference. Consider dimmable fixtures to adjust the lighting to your desired mood.
Selecting Lighting Fixtures
With your shed’s purpose and lighting requirements in mind, it’s time to choose the right lighting fixtures. Here are some popular options to consider:
LED Lights: LED lighting is energy-efficient, long-lasting, and available in various styles and colour temperatures. It’s a versatile choice for sheds of all types and sizes.
Fluorescent Lights: Fluorescent tubes are cost-effective and provide even illumination. They are suitable for storage and workshop sheds.
Task Lights: Task lighting fixtures, such as adjustable desk lamps or under-cabinet lights, are excellent for workstations within your shed.
Natural Light: Don’t forget the benefits of natural light. Consider installing windows, skylights, or translucent roofing panels to let daylight in.
Motion-Activated Lights: Motion-activated or sensor lights are convenient for sheds used infrequently. They ensure you have light when you need it without wasting energy when you don’t.
Installation and Safety Tips
Finally, when installing lighting in your steel shed, keep these safety and practical tips in mind:
Hire a Professional: If you’re not experienced with electrical work, it’s safer to hire a licensed electrician to install your shed’s lighting fixtures. This ensures that everything is done correctly and up to code.
Use Weatherproof Fixtures: If your shed is exposed to the elements, choose weatherproof lighting fixtures designed for outdoor use. These fixtures are designed to withstand moisture and other outdoor conditions.
Proper Wiring: Ensure that the shed’s electrical wiring is done safely and according to local building codes. Use conduit to protect wiring from damage.
Consider a Backup Power Source: If your shed is in an area prone to power outages, consider installing a backup power source, such as a generator or a battery-powered lighting system.
So, as you can see, selecting the right lighting for your new steel shed is a crucial decision that should align with your shed’s intended use. Understanding the purpose, calculating lighting requirements, and choosing the appropriate fixtures will ensure that your shed is well-lit and functional for your needs. Whether it’s a workshop, storage space, gardening haven, or a cozy retreat, the right lighting can make all the difference in your steel shed’s usability and comfort.
Based on our discussions with Haneco we recommend the following 4 types of lights for Sheds, Garages and Carports. Inside and Out.
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