Expert: Stephen Major (Owner--Major Design Group) - 5/4/2007

Question
QUESTION: What kind(a manufacturer would be helpful)of lighting housing do I need to get for the cement people to imbed in the cement for the 2 recessed lights planned for the shower ceiling? My electrician doesn't seem to be familiar with that process. I was advised by Home Depot to get 2 of the Halo enclosed "boxes" (they are round however) but they have extension bars on them that are meant for attaching to floor joists so I'm not sure they are the most appropriate things. Thank you.
ANSWER: Eunice,

I need to know more about the construction of your shower ceiling.  When you say that the light will be embedded in cement, are you referring to a concrete structural slab, or simply cement tile board with a cement plaster leveling layer on it, or something else?

Otherwise it is difficult for me to make an accurate recommendation.

Halo makes an enclosed light that is extendable for up to a 1-1/2" ceiling thickness.  Visit this link:
http://www.cooperlighting.com/specfiles/pdf/Halo/ADV060300–H38ICAT.pdf

Thanks,

--Steve Major

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: A concrete structural slab 5" thick. This shower is doubling as a storm shelter since we have no basement.
Thank you for your help.
Eunice

Answer
Eunice,

Trying to cast a light fixture into concrete is not a good idea. The proper way to do this is to have the concrete contractor place a "blockout" at each future light location, and run PVC electrical conduit into it.  

The size and shape of the blockout will depend of the shape of the light.  I would recommend the Halo P600TW, which is a low-profile square light.  Buy these and show one to your contractor so he can form the proper blockout.  You may want to consider tiling the shower ceiling, so any gaps, etc., can be covered prior to installing the fixture.

Please let me know if you have additional questions.

--Steve Major