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What Are Wall Sconces?

Wall Mounted Lighting

By , About.com Guide

Wall Sconce

Wall Sconce

Timothy Thiele

Wall sconces are lights that are placed on walls to accent them or to provide indirect lighting. They are also used to light specific areas like staircases and hallways in your home.

Most wall sconces use a single light bulb. Some have a half-moon shaped cover that covers the bulb from view and provides an upward beam of light on the wall. Some wall sconces, like the ones in the photos, shine downward and are nice for lighting over end tables and shelves. Then there are sconces that have a full-cover lense that allows more of a moon-glow effect. The light is indirectly spread around the fixture.

Wall sconces come with mounting hardware to install your new light. The mounting bracket is secured the wall electrical box by securing it with two screws provided. It is powered by an electrical wire via a switch containing a hot, neutral, and ground. Once wired, a center stud is screwed into the bracket which the light fixture is attacked to with a locking nut. By simply adding a bulb, placing the lense cover on the light and turning on the light, you'll see the light glowing in no time!

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