Recessed lighting, commonly known as 'can lights,' is a popular choice for professionals looking to enhance lighting without cluttering ceilings. But how much does it cost to install can lights? Installation costs typically range from $185 to $275 per light for retrofits, with new builds costing $120 to $175 per light. Additional costs for smart LED options can add $40 to $65 per light. Here, we break down the factors influencing these costs and provide insights for trade professionals.
Several factors influence the cost of installing recessed lighting:
Based on data, typical costs include:
These figures cover UL-listed fixtures, IC-rated housings, wiring, switches, and trim-out. Permit fees and ceiling repairs are additional. For a typical home needing 16 lights, costs range from $2,500 to $3,800.
Trade professionals should be aware of potential hidden costs:
CountBricks AI identifies these during estimates to prevent surprises.
1. Compliance with electrical codes requiring licensed work.
2. Avoiding fire hazards from incorrect installations.
3. Professional efficiency vs. DIY time investment.
4. Warranty protection from vetted contractors.
DIY savings diminish when considering materials, tool rental, and potential rework from failed inspections.
CountBricks streamlines estimating with AI and real-time interaction:
1. Capture room dimensions and light count.
2. AI models wiring paths and load calculations.
3. Present fixture packages.
4. Convert estimates to contracts.
5. Track progress via homeowner portal.
Combine lighting with other upgrades to reduce fees. Use dimmable LEDs for energy savings and rebates. Maintain consistent spacing to avoid extra fixtures. Schedule work during drywall installation to cut labor costs.
LED lights last 25,000 hours, reducing maintenance. Lighting upgrades recoup 60-70% of costs at resale, enhancing property value and marketability. CountBricks partners with lenders for convenient financing options.
For precise estimates on installing can lights, start a session at CountBricks.com. Get a fixed-price proposal and timeline in minutes.
The Ramirez family sought to upgrade their 1,800 sq ft ranch home with recessed lighting. CountBricks provided an estimate before they finalized their remodel budget.
Foil-faced insulation required IC-rated housings. Rafters necessitated slim can profiles. A new 20 A breaker was needed due to circuit capacity.
The initial estimate for eight tunable LEDs was $2,160. The final cost was $2,120, demonstrating the accuracy of real-time pricing.
Energy use dropped 58%. Dimmable scenes enhanced living spaces. Property value increased by $3,500, exceeding project costs.
Knowing the cost of installing can lights allowed the Ramirezes to allocate funds confidently, avoiding budget overruns.
CountBricks offers precise estimates and local contractor execution. Start with an instant quote at CountBricks.com.
