Flex Track Lighting

When to Use Flex Track Lighting

The term ”flex track” means that instead of inserting fixtures, or track heads, into a straight metal runner, homeowners and decorators can maximize light stream options by turning the runner itself.

Flex tracks, also referred to as monorails, are curved, coiled, or angled to accommodate a variety of lighting situations. Many models are hand bendable, so you can customize the shape to suit your needs. This flexibility converts the lighting unit from a utilitarian device to a design element.

The versatility of flex track lighting makes it the perfect choice for:

• Task centers, such as countertops and workshop tables.
• Highlighting artwork, plants, and other home décor features.
• Overhead expanse lighting, instead of a singular fixture stuck in the middle of the ceiling.
• Dramatic effect, such as over a dining table or in an entryway.

Preparing for Track Lighting

Walk off the room and assess your needs before choosing a flex track system.

• Do you want more ambient light in the room, or a concentrated focus, often referred to as downlight?
• Do you need to create the illusion of more space in a room through the use of wall illumination?
• Will this system be the only light source, or will it accompany lamps positioned throughout the room?
• Does the runner have the option to share different light heads, such as spotlights and pendants?

Most flex track lighting units are contemporary in design. Nevertheless, you might be surprised when you see pictures of how easily most models flow into more traditional-style homes, especially in kitchens and family rooms.

Understand the Power Supply

Before installing track lighting, it’s a good idea to gain an understanding of your available power sources. Hardwiring into the area’s junction box is usually the best solution to avoid having a cord run across the ceiling and down the wall to an outlet.

Additionally, take into consideration the amount of voltage you require. Line voltage is the most adaptable, as it accommodates both line voltage and low voltage light fixtures. Low voltage, however, produces a whiter light and consumes less electricity.

Also note that the transformer for the unit may burn out. This is probably the biggest complaint homeowners have about flex light systems. Transformers are easy to replace, but this will add to your maintenance cost over the years, as will the cost of using halogen bulbs, common in most track heads.

Learn more about selecting track lighting, voltage outputs, and other requirements at Form and Function.

Sources for Flex Track Lighting

Many home improvement stores have comprehensive lighting sections that let you see first-hand the directional options and the casting of various lighting systems. However, the selection isn’t as vast as at specialty lighting stores and websites.

Take time to visit a few home centers, and then compare what you find to these online retailers.

• Lighting FX stocks a wide selection of track and monorail systems. The company extends free shipping on orders over $100.
• Progress Lighting has a number of illumination solutions, as well as a dealer locater so you can work with a lighting specialist close to home.
• Express Lighting carries different straight and flex track options, and an unusual collection of heads, and offers free shipping on orders of $75 or more.
• Lighting Direct has a helpful step-by-step process to build your track system based on room dimensions, a good selection, and free shipping if you spend more than $50..