Chandelier hanging pointers

Hanging a chandelier is always a challenge, even for someone who hangs lights all day long! A chandelier is a large investment, and should be treated with respect and care. If you are hanging your own, I will assume you've installed basic lighting before :) If you haven't, stop  and call an electrician right now! A chandelier is not a starter project!

Step one: check your ceiling junction box.

Is it in good repair and securely fastened? If its doubtful,  wobbly, and or plastic, replace it or have it replaced. A deep secure metal box is the ideal (deep to accomodate some extra wire and the connection hardware.) You can install a chandelier to a shallow ceiling fan pan but will need to make adjustments, and probably have to purchase some replacement hardware.

Is it centered, where you want it? If you are going to move the junction box, this is the time to do it. You may be able to cover the repair area in the ceiling with a decorative medallion

Step two:Get the right tools. 

The basics are good screwdrivers and nutdrivers in a variety of sizes,measuring tape, wire strippers, pliers,  a sturdy ladder rated for electrical work and a working platform for your tools and parts that you can easily reach . A helper on the ground is always useful to "go-fer", to help steady your ladder if necessary and to pick up the small parts your will inevitably drop!

You will also need a specialty tool for opening and closing the links on the chain...Chain pliers. Not to be... ... More »

How to Choose the Right Chandelier

Chandeliers Grace Every Room of a Home

Homeowners are seeking more than just the traditional chandelier for the foyer or formal dining room; they are placing chandeliers throughout the home. Chandeliers are appearing in the bedroom, bathroom, living room, and even the kitchen. With the wide variety of chandelier styles, designs and finishes available, there is always that perfect one to suit any room. The following guide will help you selecting the perfect chandelier based on style, room size, ceiling height, lighting requirements, and installation requirements.

Lighting Styles

Homeowners have a wide variety of looks to choose from whether their style is modern, elegant, simple or formal. Whatever your fancy, the lighting choice should complement the style of furnishing in the home. Chandeliers finishes range from crystal, brass, art glass, wrought iron, satin nickel, bronze, or even painted finishes. They are available with or without crystals, shades or faux candlesticks, or adorned with metal florals or bobeche.

Characteristics of Various Lighting Styles

French- Crystals, Venetian glass, Bobeche, Elegant, Shimmering

Transitional / Art Deco- Polished Nickel or Chrome, Art Glass, Sleek, Shiny, Modern

Lodge - Wrought Iron, Antler, Pot Rack, Weathered Finishes, Wagon Wheel

Tropical - Wood, Rattan, Bamboo, Exotic

Traditional - Tiered, Wrought Ir... ... More »

What chandelier should I hang in my home or office?

What light fixture or chandelier should I hang in my home or office?
Academy Award Lighting -

http://stores.ebay.ca/Academy-Award-Lighting

In your home:
The dining room & entrance hall is the perfect place to display the right statement.  An elegant chandelier should be the inspiration to decorate the rest of your home. 
In your office:
A sparkling chandelier in an entrance way of an office & board room will impress your customers/clients.  It will represent wealth & confidence.
What size?
Fixtures should be proportional to both the table and the room.  The diameter should not be larger than the width of the table minus 12 inches, or people may hit it when rising from the table. Do not get a fixture that looks too small for the room.  It will look out of place, and will not provide you with enough light. It is always better to have a bigger fixture, especially when you have a high ceiling.
How to hang a fixture:
Hang a fixture so that the bottom of the chandelier is between 27 and 36 inches above the top of the table.   Make sure to allow for enough head room.  Hire a good electrician and don't forget to install a dimmer.  A dimmer to set the right mood in any room.
Academy Award Lighting
Please visit our store!  Thank you.  :-)

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