How To Select The Best Fitting Chandelier Light Covers
Chandelier light covers serve an important purpose in softening harsh light from bulbs while adding beauty and elegance to a room's decor. With so many options on the market, choosing the right fit can feel overwhelming. However, keeping a few key factors in mind will ensure you select shades that complement your existing lighting fixture and achieve your interior design vision.
We'll walk through everything you need to consider, from precise measurements to material and style evaluations to functional considerations around smart controls and energy efficiency. Follow our guidance, and you'll have stunning new chandelier lamp covers that become a stunning focal point rather than an afterthought.
Determine Your Chandelier Style and Size
Before shopping for anything, take stock of your existing chandelier. Is it a traditional style with arms and dangling crystals? Or a more contemporary rectangular shape? Count the number of visible bulbs and use a soft measuring tape to determine the diameter or dimensions.
Equally important is assessing the room itself - both the dimensions and how high your ceiling is. A statement chandelier suited to a grand two-story foyer would overwhelm a more modest dining nook. Use your exact measurements to find shades scaled appropriately.
Consider Proportions
An over or undersized chandelier shade fails to achieve the right aesthetic balance. To maintain harmony and flow, the general rule is that the chandelier's width should be two-thirds the width of the table underneath. There is flexibility here though - go even larger in a spacious room with high ceilings.
Evaluate Design and Material Options
The shades frame and soften the bulbs, so their design directly impacts the mood and style you want to create. Glass shades emit a warmer, transparent glow while opaque materials like fabric, stained glass or wrought iron make more of a statement.
Consider the ambiance you want and how the shades coordinate with other elements like curtains, furniture finishes and flooring. Neutral colors offer versatility to mix-and-match patterns over time. Or opt for a signature color that pops against dark walls and ceilings.
Mix Textures and Layers
An eclectic but cohesive look can be achieved by combining chandelier cover materials. For example, pair printed fabric shades over top pendant lights with clear glass covers showing on lower levels. This adds visual interest compared to all the same style.
Measure Precisely Before Buying
With your lighting assessment complete, it's time for exact measurements. Note the diameter of each bulb socket along with the vertical lengths from socket lip to ceiling and socket base to the bottom of the hanging crystals.
Leave about an extra inch all around for adjustments to the frame. You'll use these details when ordering replacement shades. Buyers also need to decide between covers for individual sockets versus a single full shade encompassing all lights.
Allow for Imperfections
Even in quality fixtures, individual socket heights and positioning isn't perfectly uniform. Expect around a quarter-inch in variation. Shade frames should have some play for adjustments during installation. You want symmetry in the final look - avoid rigid frames that won't bend and align smoothly across uneven sockets.
Shop Smart Based on Budget
Chandelier shades range dramatically in pricing starting under $10 up to several hundred, impacted most by materials used and workmanship details. Set realistic expectations around what you can spend. But also consider long-term value from an investment in your everyday atmosphere.
Those looking for serious savings might customize by spray painting or adding decorative touches onto basic glass shades. Though take care not to affect inner lampshade workings when attempting DIY upgrades.
Factor-in Added Purchases
Your existing chandelier may require new lighting components to work with replacement shades. Check bulb type and wattage requirements so additional purchases don't catch you by surprise. A handful of LED bulbs can transform both the lighting and your covers' appearance.
Consider Functional Factors
Beyond aesthetics, today's shade possibilities include energy efficiency upgrades through LED or CFL bulb compatibility. Smart options even allow app and voice controls for adjusting brightness, color temperature and automating schedules.
For hard to reach fixtures, focus on materials that withstand dust buildup and humidity without needing frequent involved cleanings. Or choose smooth surfaces over intricately etched glass or fabrics.
Read Retailer Details
Understand requirements around wiring modifications, drivers or additional components needed based on any smart features and light wavelengths supported. Returns tend to be trickier for custom shades - thoroughly review product descriptions before purchase commitments.
Read Reviews and Compare Brands
The quality and durability of shades varies widely among manufacturers. Search chandelier cover reviews rating factors like light diffusion, brightness impact, ease of cleaning and customer service responsiveness for problems.
Established lighting brands generally offer the best consistency. But also look into options from interior design suppliers and specialty boutiques for unique artisan-made lamp covers you won't find anywhere else.
Consider Your Timeframes
For special order pieces, customization adds beauty but extends wait times. Factor possible delays into any upcoming events or before expiring return periods. Or choose in-stock pieces for more immediate gratification once ordering.
Tips For Installing New Covers
Taking off old shades first requires untwisting any screws or wire fittings to gently lower the frame. Set aside all hardware and supplies to reuse. Thoroughly but delicately clean bulbs and sockets eliminating any corrosion or grime.
Then raise each replacement shade section into position, carefully adjusting and centering while ensuring stability. Reconnect cords reusing or replacing any deteriorated wire. Check pendant drop lengths and make final tweaks before enjoying the finished lighting statement.
Confirm Alignment Before Finishing
Verify cover positioning and height uniformity as you secure the new pieces. Subtle realignments now prevent frustration over misplaced shades once fully tightened. Celebratory first lighting should show cohesion, not call-out adjustment oversight.
The right chandelier light covers should tie together your decor by achieving the desired ambiance, style and functionality. Keeping our guidance around precise sizing, materials, special features and brand comparisons in mind will ensure your lighting becomes a stunning focal point that delights for years to come.