Cans Vs Conventional Lights / Ceiling Fans

williefb

We are about to start a new spec house and were looking at installing cans instead of conventional lighting. What about the total cost. Do the cans cost less or more when you figure in the cost of fininshing sheetrock etc.

I realize the type of fans and lights that we might choose make this a somewhat difficult question to answer.

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Willie

mdshunk

It takes a lot more cans to cover the same area with light that a conventional ceiling fixture will do. It's a trend that's real hot now. As far as the rock goes, the hangers and finishers normally charge so much per board. They don't seem to care about cans with regard to their pricing.

Speedy Petey

I will say folks are obsessed with fans these days. Recessed lighting has it's share of attraction, but fans are generally more widely accepted.

I have the opposite opinion myself. I like fans, but disike fans with lights.
I am a very big proponent of recessed lighting.

For a spec house though, I'd say go with the fans. Dollar wise they will be much cheaper as well.

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thom

In my specs I put recessed cans in the kitchen, 6 or 7 depending on the layout. Ceiling Fan/Lights in all bedrooms, living room, family room. Use a brushed nickel finish fan with white alabaster globe (I won't use the light kits that have you looking at a bare bulb) and match with hall and other lighting that has the same nickel finish and white alabaster globe.

daveselectric

On a new house I punch in $70.00 per recessed light. This includes the trim and lamp. I've never heard of a sheet rocker charging extra for the openings, they usually bid by the foot. Spec or custom I always prewire (14/3) and nail in backing for fans even if the plans show ceiling lights. This works out great on a spec home if the new owners want to upgrade to a fan.

Speedy Petey

$70? I thought I was low at $80-$85.

I also rough in 3-wire to every ceiling light in rooms. No reason not to.

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williefb

Exactly what my partner suggested.

Thanks for all the comments!

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Willie