Best Lighting for Your Steel Structure

Lighting is one of the most important choices you’ll need to make when it comes to any structure, and steel buildings are no different. There are quite a few things you’ll have to take into consideration that will determine the type of lighting that works best, like the intended use of the building, the size of the building and height of the ceiling, and if there are any types of openings for natural light already that may cut down on how much lighting you actually need.

Hanging LED Bulbs

Hanging lighting is a popular option for steel buildings, as they tend to be the most cost effective of all the types, easily replaceable and use bulbs that are widely available. Like all LED bulbs, they’re largely environmentally friendly and consume less energy than other types of lighting. It has a life span much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs even with frequent switching, and still operate well in extreme hot or cold temperature – which will be important seeing as your structure will be outside and probably insulated a little differently than your home.

T8 LED Lighting

These types of lights are perfect for work spaces and garages where properly lit areas are integral to getting your work done. Not only that, but this type of lighting lasts long and doesn’t suffer burnout in the way traditional fluorescent or incandescent lights do. They’re much more energy efficient, often can be dimmed when linked to the right controls, have a longer lifespan than many other types of lighting and have a casing that is largely shatterproof – made from hard plastics as opposed to glass. This type of lighting will also help you maintain a mostly “green” structure, as they require less energy to function for long periods of time.

LED Panel Lighting

Panel lighting is great for steel structures used for commercial spaces like stores, offices, school portables and more. Providing a wider range of lighting, it’s meant to disperse throughout the room and be multi-directional as opposed to much more focused lighting. Like most types of LED lighting, panel lighting uses less energy (calculated in per lumens) than other forms of lighting, which translate into savings in the long run. This type of lighting can also mimic daylightdue to its spread, creating a well-lit and comfortable work environment that is conducive to productivity.

Mobile Lights & LED Lamps

In steel structures used to do work that requires great lighting, some of the other options may not be quite enough. While they can be used in combination with other types of lighting, having mobile lights or bright LED on stands may be needed as supplemental lighting, especially for work that needs a great deal of focus or detail.

Skylights

Though it’s technically not a lighting option in the traditional sense, skylights are a great way to let a lot of light into your steel building. If your structure is something you will mainly be using in the day, skylights are the perfect way to take advantage of the daytime. Don’t be afraid to use alternate forms of lighting in addition if you anticipate extended use or to access it when it’s much darker outside. Lamps and hanging bulbs are good types of lighting to use in conjunction with skylights

Take some time to consider these types of finishing touches to your steel building by having an understanding of exactly what you need it for so you can plan, purchase and install accordingly.