Planning and Safety
From How to Install Recessed Step Lights in a Stairwell Wall · Step 1 of 7 · Video by Home Love Construction
Showing 0:00–0:27 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
Before beginning any work, ensure the power to the area is turned off at the circuit breaker. This is a critical safety step. Then, locate a suitable position for the recessed light under the stairs. Use a stud finder to check for ceiling joists or other obstructions in the proposed installation area. Confirm there is enough clearance above the ceiling surface for the recessed light housing. Use a tape measure and pencil to mark the exact center point for the light.
Goal: Safely prepare the work area and identify the optimal light placement.
What's used
Tools
- Pencil
- Stud Finder
- Advanced electronic stud finder
- Tape Measure
- Voltage Tester
About the full video
This project highlights the benefit of installing recessed lighting, often called can lights, in the often-overlooked space directly underneath a staircase. By illuminating this area, homeowners can transform a dark, potentially unused corner into a functional or decorative space suitable for displaying furniture or art. The video showcases an existing installation, implicitly suggesting a DIY approach to enhance home lighting and aesthetics.
What's said in this clip
Did you know that this is actually a great place for a can light underneath a set of stairs like what I'm standing under under right here. This would normally be kind of like a Harry Potter closet, but no closet here. So, the issue that you have with these is your light isn't going to come down from the second story. So, you kind of get a dark corner here. Adding a little cam light in here like this homeowner has in the existing home. It's actually a pretty cool and good way to light this little area. So, you can put some furniture here, maybe some art.
Automatically transcribed from the source video.
Step 1 of 7: Plan Light Layout
Decide on the number of lights needed and their spacing along the stairwell walls. Consider the height of each light from the riser and the distance from the nosing to provide adequate light without glare. Mark the exact center of each planned fixture location on the wall.
Every video in How to Install Recessed Step Lights in a Stairwell Wall
Step 1: Plan Light Layout
- 0:34–0:49 Mark Light Placement
- 5:10–6:00 Integrate Stair Niche Lights
- 0:00–0:27 Planning and Safety (this video)
Step 2: Cut Fixture Openings
- 0:04–0:10 Mark and Cut Drywall Hole
- 0:00–0:01 Trace Cutout with Template
- 0:17–0:22 Cut the Ceiling Hole
Step 3: Run Electrical Wire
- 0:59–1:18 Run Electrical Wires
- 4:35–5:25 Run New Electrical Wires
- 1:57–2:46 Run Electrical Wires to Light Fixtures
Step 4: Connect Fixtures to Power
- 2:01–3:49 Connect Electrical Wires
- 0:41–0:51 Connect Electrical Wires
- 0:00–0:02 Connect Electrical Wires to Fixture
Step 5: Install Light Fixtures
- 4:51–5:50 Mount the Fixture in the Ceiling
- 0:18–0:22 Install Recessed Light
- 0:11–0:18 Connect and Install Recessed Light Fixture
Step 6: Restore Power and Test
- 0:00–0:30 Test and Finalize Installation
- 1:36–1:44 Restore Power and Test Functionality
- 0:24–0:26 Test New Lighting System
Step 7: Finishing Touches
- 0:16–0:33 Install Decorative Trim
- 2:19–2:48 Install Trims
- 2:19–2:28 Final Installation and Snap into Place
How to Install Recessed Step Lights in a Stairwell Wall
This project outlines the steps for installing recessed lighting fixtures into the walls alongside a stairwell. This involves planning the layout, cutting openings, running electrical wire, connecting the fixtures to a power source, and finishing the installation.
Read the full guide Browse all guides
Planning this project? Shop Oak Valley Designs.
Subscribe for exclusive updates
Be the first to know about promotions, new products, and sales.