Why Light Fittings for the Bathroom Must Meet Different Criteria

Article Written By: Kathryn Dawson

If we consider all of the rooms in a home, there is something different about the bathroom. It's primary role is functional, not comfort; and its design is affected by a host of considerations that never need to be applied to a typical living room. What this means is that the light fittings in a bathroom can only be chosen after these extra factors are taken into account. Basically, the lights that may be used in a kitchen, dining room or hallway, often fail to be effective options there.

This is not to say, however, that a homeowner's hands are tied when it comes to options. In fact, the special nature of the bathroom has ensured that a whole range of options are available, with style and quality not aspects that have necessarily been abandoned in the cause of safety against humidity and moisture. Even a typical bathroom lighting system meets all of the criteria that is demanded by those of us with a keen sense of decor and design. Whether it is lights from the ceiling, for over the sink or simply wall lights to provided added illumination, style remains in plentiful supply.

One reason for paying special attention to the bathroom is the fact that, often, it requires more in terms of strategic illumination. Not everyone has the type of home that includes large windows through which an abundance of natural light can flow in. In fact, more often than not, the bathroom is located very discreetly in the building - whether it's a house or an apartment - and has small windows designed to serve the room's ventilation needs rather than its light issues. This means that extra lights are often added to ensure that basic bathroom activities, like shaving and skin treating can be done without having to negotiate shadows or dull light.

However, it will come as no surprise that the principal issue with bathrooms is the presence of moisture in the often humid air in the room. Hot showers and baths produce clouds of steam, which then condenses on the cold walls and ceiling before dripping or running downwards to the floor. If an electrical fixture, such as a light or light switch, is in the way, then electrical faults can occur. This is both dangerous and troublesome.

Moisture can also cause problems with the fittings themselves, with screws loosening in wood or plaster surfaces and individual parts of a light even cracking. While this may not be particularly dangerous, it is certainly troublesome - especially when countered by the knowledge that more suitable options are there to choose. Put simply, when it comes to choosing lights, there is a need to keep safety in mind.

Unfortunately, it is tempting to use the same lights and styles as those used in the rest of the home. Good examples are the installation of hanging pendant lights on the walls, or the shell-shaped flush lights that can serve to create a calmer ambiance in a room. While these are decorative and particularly stylish, the fact is that they are not cut out for the environment that they would be operating in. They are likely to fail, contribute to an electrical short and even an electrocution or a fire.

When it comes to bathroom lighting, there are specific safety standards that need to be adhered to. Purchasing lights that come with an IP21 rating means they have been designed with the prevention of moisture intrusion in mind. Lights should also be placed no closer than 60 centimetres from the bath or shower, from which most of the moisture comes and splashes of water can fly from.

Wall lights offer a contemporary look to a bathroom while also meeting the safety requirements.

About the Author

Kathryn Dawson - Litecraft, where you will find the widest selection of light fittings and wall lights in the UK.

You Can Link Directly to "Why Light Fittings for the Bathroom Must Meet Different Criteria" by using the url:
http://www.allbestarticles.com//home/interior-design/why-light-fittings-for-the-bathroom-must-meet-different-criteria.html

This Article Has Been Published on Wed, 2 Mar 2011 and Read 233 Times

Find All Best Articles at http://www.allbestarticles.com

Rating: Not yet rated

Comments

No comments posted.

Add Comment

You do not have permission to comment. If you log in, you may be able to comment.

Related information on Interior Design

Use Nursery Wall Stickers To Make Your Baby's Nursery Special
Interior Design Ideas For A Stress-Free Workplace
Interior Doors: Saving Money
Wallpaper Designs
Modern Water Features
Two Great Ceiling Lights Ideas For Three Key Rooms In Any Home
Advantage From the Stylish Look Of Vertical Blinds
Restroom Remodelling - Light Thoughts
The Home Builders Association Makes Talent Rise
Using Decorations to Highlight Your Architecture
The Importance Of Interior Lighting
Understanding The Different Types Of Ceiling Lights
Experiencing The Mobility To Pick Out A Self Build Diy Conservatory
Diy Conservatory Sunrooms: Having a Quality of Comfort to your home
How To Choose The Perfect Indoor Lights
Home Lighting to enhance your Home Decor
Timeless classic Chandelier to dazzle with every moment
Why Money is No Object When it Comes to Ceiling Lights
Why Home Lighting Options Need to be So Extensive
Why Light Fittings for the Bathroom Must Meet Different Criteria
Designer Radiators - Well Within the Budget
Is the End Near for Architectural Glazing?
Your Bathroom Can Become a Palace with a Litte Patience
Purchasable Models Of Illuminated Bathroom Mirrors
Parking Garage Owners Can Save Time And Money With LED Lights