Do you know about the types of track lighting?
Finding the right lighting can be tricky, especially when you want something that looks good and works well. Track lighting is a flexible option, but it can be confusing to understand with all the different information out there.
We’ve put together a guide to different types of track lighting systems to make it easier for you to choose the right fixture for your kitchen or living room. We’ll also look at the pros and cons of these types of track lighting. With the basics explained and common questions answered, you’ll have a clearer idea if track lighting is right for your space.
What is Track Lighting?
Track lighting is a system where lights are mounted on a track on the ceiling. Instead of each light having its own connection, they all get power from this track. This setup gives you more flexibility in positioning the lights and customizing the arrangement.
Types of track lighting come in various options, such as incandescent, halogen/krypton, CFL, and LED. These systems allow you to change the direction and position of the lights without needing extra wiring or outlets. You can even extend or curve the track to fit different room layouts, making it a flexible and versatile choice for lighting.
Read more: Top 10 Tips For Track Lights Installation
Types of Track Lighting
These types of track lighting provide a flexible and fashionable way to light up rooms. The three primary types of track lighting are linear, monorail, and cable. Let’s take a closer look at the characteristics of each of these track lighting systems.
1. Linear Track Lighting
Linear track lighting, commonly known as the “traditional” form. This types of track lighting is straightforward to install and works well with current electrical setups. It consists of a hollow, square-edged bar fixed to the ceiling, with light fixtures inserted and twisted into the tracks.
The internal exposed electrical conduit runs along the length of the track, sitting in specific grooves. When the metal base of the luminary touches these connections, it powers the individual light using the circuit at the end of the track, making it a simple and efficient lighting solution.
2. Monorail Lighting
Monorail lighting is different from standard linear track lighting. It hangs from the ceiling using rods called standoffs and has flexible and narrow rails. The light fixture can bend and curve up to 30 degrees, offering more design options.
In monorail lighting, the rail conducts electricity through its exposed metal. Usually, a transformer is needed to lower the voltage for safety. Low-voltage electricity flows along the rail through metal plates of an insulating connector. Light fixtures are then attached to the rail, getting power from it. This setup offers flexibility and customization for different spaces.
3. Cable Lighting
Cable lighting creates a distinctive and industrial look using robust cables and turnbuckles to hang track heads from the ceiling, instead of bars or boxes. It’s great for spaces with exposed ductwork or vaulted ceilings, adding a unique touch to the décor.
Cable lighting systems offer flexibility across different architectural styles, perfect for areas with limited ceiling access. They can be suspended from the ceiling, stretched between walls, or adapted in various configurations, providing a versatile lighting solution for different spaces.
Advantages of Different Types of Track Lighting
Easy to Install
Installing track lighting is straightforward because it doesn’t involve complex wiring or structural changes. You typically mount the track onto the ceiling or wall, connect it to an electrical power source, and then attach the light fixtures onto the track.
Highlights Features
Track lighting is like having a bunch of spotlights you can move around. You can use it to shine light on important things in a room, like artwork or furniture. This helps make those things stand out and look really nice. For example, if you have a painting on the wall, you can point one of the lights right at it to make it pop.
Different Styles
Track lighting comes in lots of different styles, so you can pick one that matches how your home looks. This is great because it means you can find something that fits in well with your decorations.
Especially in modern homes, track lighting can blend in nicely with the rest of the design. There are so many options for track lighting, so you can make it fit your space exactly how you want it to. This way, you can make sure your lighting looks just right in your home.
Disadvantages of Track lighting
Poor Overall Lighting
One downside of track lighting is that it might not brighten up the whole room enough. When you’re picking out lights, you need to think about things like what kind of light it gives off, what type of bulb it uses, what you’re going to use the room for, and what kind of mood you want to create.
Track lighting works better for making certain things stand out in a room rather than lighting up the whole space. It can work well in places like kitchens and living rooms if you have other lights too, but for places like bathrooms or smaller rooms where you need lots of light for everything, there might be better options.
Fixtures Can Be Expensive
One big drawback of track lighting is that it can be more expensive than other types of lighting that connect directly to the electrical box. The price of track lighting can vary depending on things like the type of fixture and how long the track is.
For example, a basic track with a few lights might cost between $50 and $100 for a track that’s about 4 feet long. But if you need a longer track with more lights, especially if you want fancy or specialized fixtures, it could end up costing over $500. So, it can get pretty pricey compared to other options.
Final Words
Choosing the right types of track lighting for your home can be tricky. Track lighting is one option that gives you flexibility and looks good, but it can be confusing with all the choices out there. We’ve made it easier for you by explaining the different types of track lighting and their pros and cons. Explore best types of track lighting at the best tracklights manufacturer.