Home Improvement: Track Lights

Halogen track lighting is practical as
well as decorative. Use spot to highlight pictures and objects

From the Family Handyman - Affordable Home Improvement Ideas

Track lighting lets you put light exactly where you need it—on countertops, walls or objects—and brighten just about any area. The tiny halogen bulbs emit a dazzling white light that illuminates colors brilliantly.

The price of track lighting has dropped in recent years. And many systems now operate on standard household voltage. That means you don't have to install a Transformer—just connect to any existing junction box in the ceiling.

The “rail” system that hangs below the ceiling like we show will hold both spotlights and pendants. Rails typically run either 4 or 8 ft. You can bend the rail for a more decorative appearance and position the lights anywhere on it.

Look for rail system kits (typically with three to five light fixtures) in home centers, lighting stores or online. Check manufacturers' Web sites or check the catalogs at a lighting specialty store to see all the options. This is especially important if you want to assemble your own system or add extra lights to the rail. You want to be sure you get all the correct parts.

Cost: $150 and up for a basic kit.

Time: One to two hours if you have an existing electrical box in the ceiling.

Hang pendants from the rail to 

brighten work surfaces. 

Photo courtesy of Seagull