Track lighting is an increasingly popular choice for lighting design in homes, offices, and businesses. Track lighting creates a modern look while providing flexible illumination that can be used to highlight artwork, architecture, or other features of the space. However, the cost is often a consideration when selecting any type of home improvement project – so what does it cost to install track lighting in your space?
The cost of track lighting installation will vary depending on the size and scope of your project. Factors such as the number and type of fixtures, wiring, supplies, and labor all contribute to cost. Generally speaking, a basic setup with two fixtures will cost between $500-$1500 for materials alone; more complex installations can cost up to $3000, depending on the size of the space and the number of fixtures needed. Labor costs will vary according to region, but typically cost between $100-$200 per hour for professional installation.
This article will cover more on the cost to install track lighting; the cost considerations such as light fixtures and wiring requirements. We’ll also discuss how costs can be reduced through DIY track lighting installation and other cost-saving measures.
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Factors That Affect the Cost of Track Lighting Installation
Track lighting cost is affected by several factors. Let’s look at each factor in more detail:
Type of track lighting system: The cost of a track lighting system depends on the type and size of fixtures you select. Type of track lighting system whether monorail, 3-wire, or 2-wire, the cost can range from as little as $69 for a 2-light starter kit to upwards of $400-500 per fixture.
Track lighting systems range from basic plug-in varieties to hardwired systems with specialized dimmers and switches. Hardwired systems cost more upfront but offer greater flexibility in terms of installation, control, and cost savings.
Type of fixtures: Track lighting fixtures come in a wide variety of styles: halogen, LED, and incandescent. LED lights cost the most upfront but cost less to run in the long term. Halogen and incandescent cost less initially but cost more to operate per hour.
The type of light fixture also affects other cost factors such as wiring, installation, and maintenance costs. It is best to know how much of a budget you will require for installing light fixtures.
Size and number of light fixtures: The cost of track lighting increases with the number and size of fixtures you select. Track heads, which are the lights that attach directly to the track, cost between $20-$200 each. Pendant lights cost between $50-$600 each.
Track lighting can be purchased with a variety of light fixtures, including recessed lights, pendant lights, and wall-mounted lights. The cost of fixtures can range from $5-$50 per fixture, with the cost depending on the quality and design of the product.
Lighting controls: In addition to the cost of fixtures, you may also need lighting controls such as dimmers or sensors. This can add another cost factor to the project; however, it’s an important consideration if you want flexibility in your lighting design.
Length of the track: The cost of a track is determined by the length of the track required to adequately illuminate the space. Longer tracks cost more but can provide cost savings due to fewer fixtures needed for installation. The average cost of a four-foot track is around $50.
Wiring requirement: Wiring cost for track lighting systems will depend on the complexity and extent of wiring required in your space. For example, if existing wiring can be used to install a system, the cost may be minimal; however, if new wiring needs to be installed cost could run up to several hundred dollars.
The complexity of the installation: Complex installations cost more due to the amount of time and expertise required. Professional installation costs will vary depending on region but can cost between $100-$200 per hour for labor.
Accessibility of the installation area: Installing track lighting in hard-to-reach areas costs more due to the difficulty of access. The cost of scaffolding or other equipment may need to be factored in, as well as additional labor costs for the time spent positioning and securing the fixtures.
Cost of labor in your geographic location: Labor cost varies from region to region, and cost can range from $100-$200 per hour for professional installation. DIY costs will be substantially lower but may take more time due to the complexity of the wiring and installation process.
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Average Cost Range for Track Lighting Installation
The cost of track lighting installation can be summarised into two;
- Low-end estimate: $100-$500
- High-end estimate: $1,000-$3,000
The cost range is largely dependent on the size and complexity of the project. Smaller, less complex projects cost at the lower end of this range while larger, more complex projects cost toward the higher end.
Cost Savings Measures for Track Lighting Installation
Here are some cost-saving measures that can help reduce costs when installing track lighting:
DIY installation: DIY cost is substantially lower than professional cost, and cost depends largely on the complexity of installation. For those with some electrical experience, this cost-saving measure can be a great way to save money.
Shop for cost-effective fixtures: Fixtures cost between $5-$50 each depending on quality and design. Shopping around for cost-effective fixtures can help reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
Use existing wiring: If possible, use existing wiring to install the track lighting system instead of running new wiring. This cost-saving measure can be a great way to save money on labor costs and material costs.
Choose shorter tracks: Longer tracks cost more, but the cost can be reduced through the use of shorter tracks. Shorter tracks cost less than longer tracks and cost can be further reduced through bulk purchasing of shorter track sections.
Re-use old fixtures: Old light fixtures can be reused in track lighting systems. This cost-saving measure can help reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
Final Thoughts
Installing track lighting is an investment that adds both beauty and value to a space, especially ceiling lights, but the cost is often a consideration when selecting any type of home improvement project. The installation cost depends on several factors such as the number and type of fixtures, wiring, and cost of labor. Generally speaking, costs range from $100-$3000 depending on the size and complexity of the project. Cost can be reduced through cost-saving measures such as DIY installation or reusing old fixtures.