Installing Bathroom Lights Above a Vanity Mirror
Stage 1: Preparation and Shopping
The bathroom mirror is a major focus of attention, so whether you are replacing an existing fixture or putting a new fixture into a brand new bathroom, selection of lighting for this space is a key decision, and doing it right can add a touch of class to any bathroom. Therefore, there are two important tasks before the installation of a light fixture above the bathroom vanity mirror can even begin. This first is to take a good look at your bathroom - any existing fixtures, the tile work, the sink, the mirror itself - and choose a light fixture that matches and enhances them. The second is to measure the space the fixture will be placed into, and avoid buying something that is too big.
You also need to consider how much light you need for using that mirror. Most vanity lighting fixtures use bulbs in the 20 to 40 watt range, and compensate for the small light output by using several of them. You may need a bigger fixture, something that accommodates bigger bulbs, or more than one fixture if you intend the vanity lighting to be the bathroom's main light source.
You will also need to collect your tools, which will include at the very least a rubber mallet, a marker, a drill, a level, and a screwdriver. Once you have your lighting fixture, look at what is included in the kit. If there are no drywall anchors and wiring connectors, you will need those as well.
Stage 2: Wall Anchors
It is unlikely that your fixture will be sized to mount entirely on wood studs. Thankfully, they do not weigh very much, and drywall anchors should be sufficient. For this reason, you may want to simply bypass the studs and employ the anchors alone. Measure and mark spots to match the mounting points on the fixture, trace a line through them and check it with the level, drill small holes through the spots, and then tap the drywall anchors through the wall.
Stage 3: Wiring
Turn off the power to the bathroom from the fuse box/circuit box. Match the neutral leads and the positive leads together and twist the copper wiring together, and then cover with the plastic, screw-on wiring connectors.
Stage 4: Mounting
With the anchors prepared and the wiring ready, mount the fixture. This is usually done by screwing it into the wall anchors, but specifics may vary with the fixture chosen. With the fixture mounted, screw in the light bulbs, put on whatever lamp shades there are, and turn the power to the bathroom back on.
Tags: drywall anchors, Above Vanity, Above Vanity Mirror, also need, Bathroom Lights, Bathroom Lights Above