Understanding and Choosing the right Recessed Fixture

The housing is the primary structure of a recessed light fixture. It houses the electrical components including the lamp and provides the means for attaching the fixture to the ceiling structure. It also provides the platform for mounting the various trim components.

There are two basic categories of recessed fixtures and they're classified by the type of housing and the application.

• New Construction Housings - This fixture is used in new construction and remodels where there is open access to the ceiling structure. These light cans are affixed to the ceiling joists by arms that extend out from the can.
• Remodel Housings - These types of fixtures are used when there is already an existing ceiling and there is little or no access to the ceiling joists. These fixtures have clips that attached directly to the ceiling drywall.

The second important factor in choosing the right light fixture involves whether it will contact insulation or not.

• IC-Rated Housings - These fixtures are used in ceilings or other areas where there will be contact with insulation. "IC" stands for "insulation contact".
• Non-IC Housings - Non-IC fixtures are used for applications where there is no contact with insulation. A typical scenario is ceiling fixtures in a first-floor room where there is no insulation between the ceiling and the floor above it.

So for example, if you're choosing a light fixture for a new addition where you'll have access to the ceiling structure and the ceiling will be insulated, you'd choose a new construction, IC-rated housing. If you have any questions please give us a call at 604-372-2400.