Tips for Creating the Perfect Lighting Setup in Your Garage

The garage can be an incredibly functional and productive room in the house–if you can see correctly, of course. No matter what you use your garage for–parking, projects, or even an apartment, you will want to make sure it is properly lighted. There are a few fundamental rules when you are choosing lighting for your garage. Read on to learn the basic tenets of effective garage lighting.

If you’re using your garage as an apartment: The best way to feel comfortable living in a renovated garage is to keep the lighting as natural as possible. An apartment is best as an open, breezy room that is pleasurable to spend time in–that makes it feel like home. To accomplish this feel, you must invite as much natural light as possible into your garage. If you’ve got windows, use filmy curtains over your windows that let the light in and pick light paint colors (such as yellow) that reflect the sunshine instead of absorbing it. If you don’t have windows, use plenty of lamps with warm-colored bulbs–fluorescent lighting can be irritating, especially in a living space. If you’re feeling a bit cramped, mirrors are a great way to open up a small garage, so place mirrors around the room to give it a more spacious feel.

If you’re using your garage as a workspace: Overhead lighting is best. Track lighting is a great way to brighten up your garage—make sure you get bright overhead lighting for evening and night work. Many people prefer adjustable lighting—this way, you’re in charge of how bright it is in your garage. If you use your garage for woodworking, painting, or both, buy light bulbs with a CRI (color rendering index) of 85 or above. This lighting will allow you to see the true color of paints and stains.

No matter what you use your garage for, leave no places dark. Don’t leave pockets of garage space unlighted—make sure that all corners are illuminated. Wall sconces are an inexpensive and tasteful way of achieving this goal, and if you have space that escapes the light of your overhead lighting or lamps, there are lights you can easily install anywhere you need to.

Pro-tip: Whether you’re living or working in your garage, ensure that the garage door is always functional. It is important to have it inspected regularly and fixed immediately if something is amiss. For expert garage door repair and replacement, let the team at Ponderosa Garage Doors take care of everything. Have a look at our gallery and give us a call at (503)-730-0444. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!