Fancy Bath Lighting
Judging from our mailbox, This Old House readers love to hang fancy lighting in their bathrooms. But, to be completely honest, some of your photos make us a little skittish. Safety codes and common sense call for added caution when installing a pendant-style fixture in a wet environment. Keep the following pro-vetted practices in mind, and you’ll avoid sparking any problems.
Leave Proper Clearances
By code, the bottom of the chandelier must be at least 8 feet above the highest point on the tub’s edge or 3 feet beyond it.
Plan for Moisture
Choose a fixture that’s U.L.-rated for wet or damp locations; the fixture should feature tight construction that keeps out water and condensation.
Protect Yourself From Shocks
Make sure that the wiring in the bathroom is protected with a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), which will cut the current if it senses unsafe conditions.
Go off The Grid
Don’t have high ceilings for a chandelier? Consider a decorative candle fixture instead. Use dripless candles; keep flames at least 12 inches from flammable materials and always extinguish them before leaving the room.
