Backlight options
Lighting can be internal, external and decorative.
Outdoor
Can be used:
- Separate remote lamps.
- Small sconces that eliminate harsh shadows on the face.
- Point mounted sources. This option well illuminates not only the mirror and what is reflected in it, but also the room.
Internal
In this case, the LED strip is built directly into the surface of the mirror. On top, in order to ensure dispersion, it is covered with white frosted glass. As a result, the lighting and mirror look like one.
LED modules can be located on the sides, on top of the contour or along the perimeter of the mirror. The location is determined by the dimensions of the reflective surface. In some cases, the backlight is framed with an aluminum profile coated with gold or silver. This makes it possible to hide parts of the wiring and give the product completeness.
Decorative
The tape can be attached both to the mirror and to the wall where it is located. Minimum power LEDs are used here
Sometimes multi-colored ribbons are used, but in this case caution is important, as they can distort the image
The backlight can be supplemented with heating. In this case, films with an infrared heater are used.
Is it possible to glue a mirror to tiles?
To avoid the difficulties that arise in the first two cases, the mirror can be glued by performing a predetermined surface preparation. It should not be dirty, as in this case there is a high probability that the mirror will not hold. For fastening directly to the wall, double-sided tape and special sealants are used, and better results can be achieved with their simultaneous use.
First, tapes of adhesive tape (two are enough) are glued to the center of the future mirror, and the surface of the accessory is coated with adhesive sealant. The mirror is attached to the wall and leveled, and this must be done very quickly, before the sealant sets; besides, the adhesive tape is fast-acting.
Remember!
When applying sealant, be careful at the corners - it is not necessary to apply the adhesive mass here, but if this happens and the glue extends beyond the structure, the excess must be immediately removed using available means.
Bath lighting
It is very important to properly equip the lighting of the place where water procedures are taken. For the bath, you can make one of the following types of lighting:
- LED around the perimeter;
- autonomous:
- built-in;
- decorative;
- in Japanese style.
Each type of lighting is suitable for certain procedures. To take a relaxing bath, you can add quiet lighting around its perimeter and hang a dim ceiling lamp above it. To create an unusual design in a room, you should use LED lamps with colored lenses. A more expensive option would be to install a bathroom with built-in lighting. However, the design of the room will look more luxurious, and in addition, it will save you from having to install light sources yourself.
If you plan to use the bath more often for more practical activities: washing, bathing, pedicures, bathing children, you should take care of brighter light sources that will allow you to clearly see the necessary objects. To do this, you can install ceiling lighting or wall sconces. It’s great if the lamp has the ability to change the brightness and direction of the light: then it can be used to illuminate different parts of the bathroom.
Types of illuminated mirrors
One of the main differences will be the type of lighting - both white cold spectrum and daylight or usual warm spectrum are used for mirrors. Colored lighting options are also possible - usually they serve only a decorative function and have a separate switch.
The following types of lighting are most often used for the bathroom:
- Internal - the light is directed from the mirror, evenly illuminating the face of the person standing in front of it. This is achieved using a frame through which rays of light of varying degrees of brightness pass.
- External - light also comes from the mirror, but is directed to the side and scatters, reflecting from the walls. It looks like an even glow around the mirror frame; this effect greatly decorates the bathroom interior.
- Combined option - uses both types of light direction. This ensures the highest quality lighting combined with visual design.
- Decorative is a type of interior lighting, only the glow is directed directly through the surface of the mirror on which the ornament or design is made.
In addition to various options for arranging light sources, several methods of equipping a switch are also used. A regular push-button can be located on the wall or on the mirror frame - this option is convenient and familiar. More expensive mirror models are often equipped with a touch switch - then the light turns on after touching the surface of the mirror.
IMPORTANT: The quality of reflection in the mirror will be influenced by all factors - from the direction of the light to its intensity and color shade. To avoid problems, it is always recommended to use backlighting independent of the main lighting, which can be turned off if necessary
It is also better to install a light intensity control and leave the ability to rotate the lamps.
Illuminated mirrors are also divided according to cost - on the market you can find both many budget options that perform their functions well, as well as luxury designer mirrors designed mainly to create style.
Bathroom mirror with lighting De Aqua Moon 9090
A striking mirror with circular LED lighting is a design project ideal for the most sophisticated bathrooms.
The characteristics are as follows:
- mirror surface diameter 90 cm;
- the universal round shape of the mirror makes its location convenient;
- the internal lighting is made in the form of a strip that surrounds the surface of the mirror with a frame;
- a reliable moisture-resistant housing protects the backlight from damage and corrosion;
- The touch switch type allows you to turn on the light with one touch on the frame.
The model was made by a well-known Russian manufacturer that has won the trust of discerning customers. The LED lighting has a cool tint, emphasizing the expressiveness of the Art Nouveau style. The cost of the mirror is from 23 thousand rubles.
Mirror De Aqua Mun 9090 with LED backlight, https://xn—-8sbpjdhfvboyogl0a.xn--p1ai/zerkalo-de-aqua-mun-9090-s-led-podsvetkoj
Mirror Style Line Provence 65
A budget model from a Russian manufacturer, made in a modern style. The mirror has the shape of a vertical rectangle, LED lights are built into the frame.
Other characteristics of the model:
- dimensions 65x80 cm, thickness 4 cm;
- body material - MDF coated with moisture-resistant film;
- lamp power is 14.4w;
- separate push-button switch located on the frame.
The model is distinguished by its versatility - its laconic modern style will suit various interior options. The cost of the mirror is from 6 to 8 thousand rubles.
Mirror Style Line Provence 65 with lighting, https://buy-plumbing.rf/zerkalo-style-line-provans-65-s-podsvetkoj
At what price can you buy an illuminated bathroom mirror - review of current offers
The price depends on the manufacturer, shape, size, type of lighting, the presence of shelves, cabinets, and product design. On average, you can buy a beautiful mirror for 2,000 rubles. The Belarusian brand Evoform offers a mirror measuring 120x3x75 cm for 5,200 rubles. The Russian model from Sanvit with perimeter lighting will cost 10,000 rubles. If you choose a mirror with lighting and heating, such products are more expensive - 13,000-20,000 rubles. Decorate your bathroom with a suitable mirror and admire yourself in good health!
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Illuminated mirror types of accessories and nuances of choice
Mirror with external lighting
There are three options for mirrors with lighting for the bathroom:
- For lighting, external devices such as spots are used, directing the rays to the right place;
- Internally illuminated design, ensures full illumination and good display;
- Lighting a bathroom mirror is done by placing a device (lamp) behind the mirror.
Now you need to figure out which illuminated bathroom mirror will not only be a nice stylish touch, but will also take on a functional load.
- A wall mirror with external lighting has a lot of options. The mirror lamp can be attached to a cabinet, mounted on a wall (above a mirror surface or on the side), or simply hanging separately from a mirror surface.
- A mirror equipped with internal lighting is a design that uses LED strips harmoniously built into the surface. The lighting is softened by the mirror surface and does not hurt the eyes, while the reflection is solid and accurate. As a rule, such mirrors are sold built into wall cabinets, but today there are also free-hanging compositions.
Bathroom mirror with built-in lighting
- Decorative lighting. Lighting has absolutely no functional load, it’s just decor! In this case, lights for the bathroom mirror can be placed on the back of the accessory or built inside. In the latter case, the mirror surface is illuminated from the inside.
In addition to the variety of lighting, all mirrors can have different shapes, which also needs to be taken into account when purchasing an accessory. The main thing is to figure out which mirror you need. If the bathroom is equipped with a large fluorescent lamp, then there are more options to choose from, and if you prefer soft but clear lighting, option 1 or 2 will suit you. The photos at the bottom of the article will help you make your choice. The gallery presents all the options and possibilities of illuminated mirrors.
If your room is already equipped with a mirror and you do not want to change it, it is quite possible to make the lighting yourself. The process does not contain any major difficulties; you just need to understand all stages of the work and take into account the nuances.
Classification
To illuminate bathroom mirrors, special lamps for wet rooms are used. Due to the design features, moisture does not get inside. An atmosphere of peace and comfort is created with the help of multifaceted lighting, consisting of several light sources. Lamps next to the mirror are a must-have attribute of modern rooms.
By lamp type
The type of lamps used determines the power consumption, intensity and color of the light output.
Luminescent
Energy-efficient option with a long service life (2.5-20 thousand hours). When purchasing fluorescent lamps, pay attention to 3 parameters:
- base type E14, E27, E40 (E14 for small luminaires);
- power;
- the nature of the color spectrum (cold, warm, white).
Halogen
This type of lamps is used in spotlights. They are not afraid of moisture, have increased light output, and last a long time (2 thousand hours). Capsule-type halogen bulbs are used for illumination. They have small dimensions. The G9 base is suitable for a 220 V network.
The service life of halogen lamps is reduced by:
- frequent switching on and off;
- pollution.
LED lights
Light-emitting diode lamps (LED) fit perfectly into the bathroom interior. They last up to 30 thousand hours, emit light that does not irritate the eyes, and consume little electricity. LED lamps intended for illumination have a GX53 base type.
LED strips are used for internal and external illumination of mirrors. They have a uniform glow of different colors and brightness. LED strips are produced in 2 types:
- SMD (single color);
- RGB (multicolor).
By shape and design
In small rooms, mirrors of small (40 cm) and medium (60 cm) height are appropriate. Owners of large bathrooms can use mirror panels 1-1.2 m high in their design.
With shelf
Practical and easy to use model. There is enough space on the shelf for oral, skin, and hair care products. The shelf holds everything family members need for daily hygiene procedures. The lighting creates a feeling of comfort.
See also
How to use a roller to paint a ceiling with water-based paint yourself
Mirror cabinet
Allows you to make the most of your bathroom space. The shelves contain cosmetics, hygiene products, and household chemicals. The mirror canvas visually increases the size of the room. Illumination (internal, external) increases the level of comfort.
Round
A round cosmetic mirror fits well into the bathroom interior. It emphasizes the original design of the sink and visually deepens the space. The backlight eliminates shadows and helps to create high-quality makeup.
Perimeter light
Lamps are placed under or around the mirror surface. A mirror with external lighting around the perimeter is a full-fledged light source in the bathroom. Interior lamps create the effect of diffused light. It helps you relax.
Touch activation
Touch switches are suitable for luminaires with low-voltage halogen and fluorescent lamps; they are connected to LED light sources. They turn the lights on and off with a light touch of the hand. Mirrors with a built-in touch switch have a modern design. They are easy to use. High cost does not affect demand. He grows. Models with remote control provide maximum comfort.
Magnifying
A modern gadget that makes it easier to care for your skin and apply makeup, and is mounted on the wall. The magnifying cosmetic mirror can be rotated. The backlight and magnifying effect are chosen by active young women and older ladies.
Lighting rules
We have already mentioned that the bathroom needs good lighting the most, and this is not surprising, because here all the inhabitants of the house begin and end their day, and it is the amount of light that determines how comfortable it will be for a woman to apply makeup and for a man to shave.
In order to calculate what lighting will be optimal for the bathroom, you need to have basic knowledge of this area. First, you need to remember that the illumination of a room is measured in lux, and in order for it to be comfortable to be there and perform all the necessary actions, this indicator must exceed 200 lux.
Lighting in the bathroom should be intense, but not too bright.
Now, knowing what level of lighting we need, it will be quite simple to calculate how to achieve this. Lamps have different wattages. The best ones for the bathroom are:
- halogen (23-27 W/m2);
- fluorescent lamps (6-8 W/m2);
- accumulation lamps (10-30 W/m2).
Brightness of various lamps
Choosing lighting for the bathroom
As can be seen from the list, the power of lamps varies within one type, so it is advisable to follow the following rule: if light colors predominate in your bathroom, then when choosing lighting you need to focus on the first number, if in dark rooms, then on the second.
How to choose a lamp
Option for installing a lamp above a mirror
bathroom mirror light
Design and installation features
All of the above points must be taken into account before drawing up a lighting design for the bathroom. The installation of LED devices will be taken into account in such a scheme.
Usually you need to decide on the main and additional lighting, provide switches for them, and determine the location of sockets for connecting various household appliances.
To avoid confusion and correctly connect the ends of the electrical wires leading into the junction box, it is recommended to use color markings
After this, a wiring plan is drawn up, the location of distribution boxes, etc. is determined. A cable with a cross-section of 2.5 square meters is laid from the general apartment electrical panel to the bathroom junction box. mm. It is suitable for lamps and also for lighting.
A more powerful cable intended for large equipment is laid separately. It is recommended to color-code the different cables to prevent them from being accidentally mixed up. After this, lay the wire to the switch.
If all lighting fixtures are turned on with one key, then it will be enough to use a regular double wire.
But LED lighting in the bathroom is usually turned on separately from the main lighting. In this case, use a triple cable. If a switch with three keys is used for lighting, i.e. for three separate groups of lamps, you will have to use two double cables. The cross-section of such a wire should be 1.5 square meters. mm.
After this, the cable is laid from the switch directly to the lighting fixtures. It is worth immediately taking into account that it is not recommended to carry out open wiring in bathrooms, so you will have to make grooves. In some cases, it is possible to lay the cable in a special plastic box.
Groups of auxiliary spotlights can be connected in parallel or in series. In the first case, you will need to connect a separate power line to each lamp, in the second - connect the lamps along one line one after another.
With a parallel connection, both cable consumption and the amount of work increase significantly. In the second case, everything is much simpler and cheaper.
But serial connection has a number of disadvantages. For example, if one lamp burns out, the supply of electricity to the entire circuit will be interrupted. In addition, there is no way to diversify the LED backlight control system.
With a parallel connection, a burnt-out element will not in any way spoil the operation of the remaining lamps.
If there is a desire to arrange the possibility of turning on not all lamps at the same time, but only some, for example, every second lamp, then a parallel connection will be needed. This allows you to adjust the level of illumination in the room.
If desired, methods for connecting lamps can be combined, for example, lighting a mirror can be done in a sequential way, and to decorate a bath or ceiling, use a parallel connection, etc.
For this type of lighting fixture, it is recommended to use a flexible stranded wire. Monolithic cable can make it difficult to install fixtures correctly by changing their position. Installation work with flexible wire is usually not difficult to perform, but all twists should be carefully soldered and insulated.
ShVVP type stranded wire has conductors twisted from copper wire, covered with a polyvinyl chloride plastic coating, which protects the structure from the influence of foreign factors
Typically, for bathroom fixtures, it is recommended to use wires of the ShVVP, PVA or similar types, in which the stranded cores are securely covered with a layer of polyvinyl chloride plastic.
Such protection will prevent the spread of fire in case of fire, prevent the formation of fungi, and is resistant to moisture.
Exiting wires through the mounting hole in the wall and connecting them to a two-key switch
The supply cable must be laid in a protective corrugated channel. For systems with grounding terminals, a four-core wire is used, but if such an element is missing, a three-core design will be sufficient. Holes of a suitable size are made in the suspended ceiling canvas for spotlights.
Wire outlets should come out of them, two segments for each switch key, as well as two more wires for the reverse connection. To facilitate installation, it is recommended to leave the length of the outlets approximately 15-20 cm. The ends of the outlets of the same color must be cleaned and connected into twists.
At least two wire outlets about 20 cm long must extend into the mounting hole intended for installing a spotlight.
If you intend to connect to a switch with two keys, then three twists will come out of each hole. One of them will be common to all lamps, and the other two will be for the switch keys.
Accordingly, the first twist is attached to each lamp, and the rest - only to those elements that will be controlled by a specific key.
One common wire must be connected to each lamp and brought to “zero” (blue wire), the rest are connected to different lamps and connected to the “phase” of different switch keys. 1 and 2 are groups of lamps
The common wire in the distribution box will be connected to the neutral wire, and the phase should be connected to the switch and divided into two lines leading to the corresponding keys for different groups of lamps.
Advantages and disadvantages
Illuminated mirrors have the following advantages:
- They are convenient for performing daily toilets, since the main light does not turn on.
- The backlight allows you to see even the smallest details, so using such a mirror is convenient. Also, some models allow you to direct the lighting in the required direction.
- Another advantage is the creation of additional lighting in the room. You can keep the mirror on all the time, creating a light corridor. And the use of several such products at the same time allows you to make a tunnel, which will be a very interesting solution.
- A mirror with LEDs will fit into any interior. The models are presented in a wide variety, they differ in size, shape, and also in design: there are battery-powered, battery-powered, and mains-powered models.
- LED lamps are very economical in terms of electricity, but at the same time they provide high-quality light and a stylish appearance. They are durable and last more than 10 years, and are safe for the eyes. Backlighting in the form of LED strips is popular. It can have different colors and switching modes.
Features and advantages of illuminated bathroom cabinets
Equipping furniture such as lighting will allow the furniture to acquire a number of additional advantages:
- Increasing the decorative appearance. In the twilight of the bathroom, all lamps with small dimensions contribute to relaxation and create a relaxing atmosphere;
- Makes it easier to find the item you need. You no longer have to navigate by touch, spending half an hour finding what you need;
- Additional convenience when applying makeup. You will see your face with maximum accuracy and illumination. This is true for models equipped with mirrors;
- Wide choice of placement methods. You can attach the lamps to the facade or install them directly inside the cabinet.
Manufacturing technology for bathroom mirrors
Using a mirror in conditions of high humidity and frequent changes in air temperature is caused by the fact that it loses brightness and the reflection in it becomes cloudy. The mirror cloth can be damaged by fungus or mold. To prevent such changes, they are manufactured using special technologies.
Bathroom accessories are produced using the latest innovative equipment, which covers the back surface of mirrors with an even layer of silver. Products coated with a layer of silver are not subject to corrosion, easily withstand the humid climate of the bathroom and perfectly perform the usual functions of a mirror. In addition, mirror surfaces are made colored, combined, matte and tinted.
Mirrors in different rooms and interiors (15 ideas)
A mirror has long ceased to be only utilitarian; now it is a full-fledged piece of furniture. For example, a mirror with a frame made of stucco will look great in a loft style, a gilded frame will take root in a classic style, and a frameless frame of an unusual shape will be a bright accent in a modern interior.
Suitable here ×
Mirror-sun in a gold frame 61 cm Arizona
Small sun mirror above the fireplace in the living room
Mirror in the kitchen
A mirror in the kitchen is installed as a kitchen apron to increase the space. Additional lighting can be installed under wall cabinets.
Mirrored apron in a white small kitchen
Kitchen apron mirror tiles kitchen
Kitchen mirror apron in the kitchen interior
Mirror in the living room
Oval and round mirrors in the living room fit well into classic interiors, while mirrors in square and rectangular frames will suit modern interiors.
IMPORTANT: It is best to place mirrors in the living room behind all the furniture, for example behind the sofa, so that the reflection in the mirror does not distract and create tension
Round mirror in a gold frame in the living room
Mirror in the living room interior classic style
Large round mirror in the living room modern interior
Horizontal floor mirror in a wooden frame living room
Wall mirror in a wooden frame in the living room
ADVICE:
If you place the mirror vertically, it increases the height of the light, and if horizontally, it expands the room.
Mirror in the bedroom
A mirror in a bedroom is used in different interpretations: together with a dressing table, as decor, or just a large floor mirror against the wall.
Suitable here ×
Round wall mirror “Salute” diameter 60 cm
floor mirror in a metal frame in the bedroom
Floor mirror in a gold frame in the bedroom
Make-up mirror in a white bedroom
IMPORTANT: psychologists do not recommend placing a mirror opposite the bed, because in the dark any reflections in it cause fear and anxiety. But also a very common bedroom decoration is a large rectangular mirror with a wide frame, which is simply installed on the floor and rests on the wall.
But also a very common bedroom decoration is a large rectangular mirror with a wide frame, which is simply installed on the floor and rests on the wall.
Mirror in the hallway
A full-length mirror is usually installed in the corridor. Such a mirror not only fulfills its main function, but also dissolves the wall, increasing the space due to its large size.
Mirror on the entire wall in the hallway
Unusual shaped mirror in the hallway
Suitable here ×
Large round metal mirror on a belt, diameter 75 cm Iron and Rope Round
Round mirror suspended on a rope in the hallway
Features of bathroom mirrors
The special conditions of the bathroom, associated with high humidity, temperature changes, the possibility of steam and condensation, dictate their requirements for all furniture and accessories placed in the bathroom. This also applies to mirrors - they can become cloudy, susceptible to fungus and mold.
A mirror in the bathroom is a very important element of the interior.
Modern technologies make it possible to protect mirrors from the negative effects of the atmosphere, making them attractive and functional. In addition, bathroom mirrors are often used not only with lighting, but also with heating, which will protect the mirror from fogging and damage to the amalgam. Mirror lighting in the bathroom is an additional source of lighting, a way of zoning space and a decorative design element.
Lighting can act as a stylish decorative element
Features of lamps for illuminating mirrors in the bathroom
Bathroom lamp Philips 34082/11/16 Hydrate
Since the bathroom, due to high humidity, is an extreme place for electrical appliances, it is necessary to take into account some features of such lamps:
- The devices have additional elements to protect the wire joints from moisture. These are rubber seals in the lampshades, sealant plugs on the wires.
- The minimum IP value is 44, the maximum is 67.
- The devices are designed for installation by zones. There are 3 of them in the bathroom. In the first zone, the protection is maximum; the devices can be temporarily immersed in water - this will not cause harm. In the second zone, protection is not lower than index 45. In the third – 24 and higher.
All types of lighting devices have degrees of protection - LED, incandescent, fluorescent and halogen.
Lighting location
The location of the lighting depends on the design decision and the wishes of the owners. Here the repair budget is taken into account, during which the wires are laid and the number of lamps and their cost are calculated. It may be decided to make autonomous lighting with a remote switch, in which the wires are connected only to the lamps, and the switch is programmed to operate from anywhere in the apartment or house.
Durability of the lamp
The durability of a bathroom lamp is determined not only by the type of lamps, but also by the characteristics of the materials that can withstand long-term operation in wet conditions with frequent temperature changes.
Lamp power
The higher the power of electrical appliances, the shorter the service life, so you can install one powerful appliance in the bathroom, and let the rest be of medium or low power. It is recommended to connect them to different lines so that they turn on independently of each other. If any group fails, the rest will perform their functions properly.
Reflector design
Light diffuser
The following can be used as a light flux reflector:
- mirror surfaces;
- aluminum;
- chrome surfaces;
- plastic with aluminum coating.
Plastic reflectors are not very reliable as they heat up quickly. They require lamps that give off little heat - LED, halogen. Incandescent light bulbs can warp plastic or even cause a fire.
The thickness of the coating matters. For rooms with a non-aggressive environment - up to 3 microns, for a bathroom you will need more - up to 10 microns.
The matte coating creates brighter light, while the mirror coating absorbs the flow of photons. The shape of the reflector also affects the intensity of the radiation. The most commonly used are circle, ellipse or parabolic shapes of the lamp.
Do-it-yourself lighting for a mirror, what’s useful to know
Using an LED strip to create lighting
It’s easy to create mirror lighting in the bathroom; all you need to do is place the sconces at the ends of the mirror surface and you have an excellent accessory for personal care. It is only necessary to provide for the connection of lighting devices. The option is simple and fairly standard. But don’t underestimate the beauty of this method: a framed mirror will look like the most advantageous option. In addition, it is easier to understand the process of turning on/off lighting fixtures and there is no need to spend money on expensive equipment.
A mirror with a lamp can be equipped with both LED lighting and spotlights, but depending on the amount and type of lighting, you need to make holes in the mirror panel. It's even easier to create light in the bathroom above the mirror with a clothespin light. Accessories do not require any additional work, just find a suitable lighting fixture, hang the mirror and fix the lamp on either side - your illuminated mirror is ready.
Option to create a frame with spot LEDs for a mirror
Such simple lighting of the mirror in the bathroom is not suitable for all users. But if you want something exquisite, you should contact a glass workshop, having first drawn the shape of your future mirror. Well, it’s nice to have a piece of a mirror surface so that the craftsmen have something to cut from. By the way, in the same workshop they will cut the required number of holes in the mirror.
So, an option with a mirror wall and lighting. You can cover both the entire wall surface and part of it. By the way, this decorative technique will allow you to comfortably organize an area for brushing your teeth and at the same time visually expand the space of a small room. Nuances of the work:
- The mirror can be mounted even if the renovation is completed and the wall is covered with tiles. All you have to do is remove the tiles and calculate the area of the mirror.
- You only need to remove solid fragments in an area 100-200 cm high above the floor and the width of the entire wall.
- To install a mirror, you need an absolutely flat surface, so it is better to remove the tiles along with the adhesive base.
- Measure the area of the freed wall again and adjust the mirror according to this size.
Mounted mirror option with rear LED lighting
- An important part is illuminating the mirror in the bathroom; this must be done before installing the surface.
- Illumination can be done either using spots (install a lamp for the mirror above the top panel) or equipping the plane with an LED strip.
- To install an LED strip, you need to purchase an aluminum profile (special for backlit shelves), charge the strip to the required length and put the frame on the lower and upper sides of the mirror piece.
Now you need to stick the mirror onto a cleaned and degreased surface using special glue or liquid nails. If you need a switch for the mirror, then it will also have to be built into the power circuit. But if your knowledge is not enough, it is better to entrust all electrical work to professionals, especially if the wiring diagram for a bathroom mirror has its own difficulties and nuances.
Mounting the surface and connecting the mirror to power were the last stages of the work. All that remains is to frame the mirror with tiles or mosaics and enjoy your work! Believe me, all the bathroom mirrors with lamps cannot be compared with yours; money cannot buy this.
Tools required for installation
The necessary tools are selected depending on the selected type of lighting . The main parts for installing a mirror surface are plastic dowels and screws, which are usually supplied with the purchased lighting fixture. Tools you may need:
- Yardstick.
- Hammer drill (can be replaced with an impact drill).
- Building level.
- Screwdriver.
- Drill (for brick or concrete, the choice depends on the material of the wall on which the installation will be carried out).
Types of lamps for illumination
When choosing a model, the type of lamp used is also important. The efficiency, brightness of light and durability of the product directly depend on this.
Incandescent lamps, common in the last century, are used less and less today; they were replaced by more technologically advanced lighting elements
Making your own illuminated mirror
It’s not difficult to make a bathroom mirror with lighting yourself. It is not necessary to cut out a round or square mirror sheet yourself with a glass cutter; it is better to entrust this part of the work to professionals. For those who want to make an illuminated mirror themselves, we offer some tips for solving this problem.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=LNiJEGS538c%3F
- First you need to determine the style and design of the bathroom. If it is made in high-tech style, then the shape of the mirrors and lamps will be square or rectangular. If this is, for example, Provence style, then we advise you to choose a round or oval mirror and appropriate lighting.
- Having decided which illuminated mirror you want to install in the bathroom, draw it and indicate the dimensions.
- Think about where the lights or LEDs will be built in on the mirror if you decide to build them into the mirror canvas and make the necessary notes on the sketch.
- To study in detail the issue of the location of lighting lamps, it is better to purchase them at this stage in order to know their size and luminous intensity and provide all this for marking the holes for them on the mirror, if they are needed. It is better to buy lamps in advance in order to think in advance whether you need to purchase and install additional electrical wiring.
- Finding a good glass master or glass workshop is not a problem now. When ordering, you need to fully discuss all your wishes and preferences with the masters.
- If you understand that in order for the backlit mirror to be connected to the network, you need to run an additional cable, provide and install a new socket, then this must be done in advance, before the workshop completes and delivers your order.
- For small baths, it is better to order the production of a mirror wall with lighting. This design will visually increase the space and lighting of the room.
- It is difficult to install a mirror wall entirely on your own; it can be divided into fragments, which can then be connected with moldings, or you can entrust the manufacture and installation to craftsmen.
- If the tiles on the wall are new and the renovation has come to an end, then to install the mirror wall you need to carefully remove the layer of tiles in the place where you decided to place it, without damaging the flat surface for applying glue.
- To illuminate a mirrored wall, two options are usually used: simple and complex. The first option is to use wall lamps (spots), which are installed either on the ceiling or next to the mirror. The second option is to use an LED strip. This option looks more impressive and makes the bathroom design romantic.
- To install the LED strip yourself, you need to correlate in advance the size of the mirror and the length of the profile into which the LED strip will be charged.
- The tape is connected to electricity using switches and a power supply, and the mirror coating itself is glued to a leveled surface, cleared of tiles.
- After all the work done, you need to make a beautiful connection between the mirror and the tile.
A hand-made mirror with lighting for the bathroom will add a unique design to the room and allow you to enjoy your project brought to life. In your spare time, you can think about how to heat up the mirror so that it never fogs up.
Rules for connecting the backlight
The type of illumination determines the order of further work. If the lighting fixtures come with a mirror (cabinet), then there are assembly instructions. Otherwise, the work plan is drawn up independently.
LED Strip Light
To install an LED strip, you need an aluminum profile and 1-2 12V power supplies. The profile removes excess heat, which extends service life. Without a profile, you can install SMD 3528 tape. It is low-power. The tape is sold in coils. The length of the segments is determined during installation. The lighting scheme includes:
- Dimmer;
- Remote Control;
- power unit;
- ribbon.
To connect the circuit elements you need: PuGV - installation wire, VVGng-Ls (1.5 mm²).
LED lights
Power to the high-power fixtures is supplied from a distribution box located outside the bathroom. The wires are connected with self-clamping terminals. For designer lighting of mirrors, less powerful LED lamps are used. There are enough batteries to power them.
Product operating instructions:
- insert batteries of the same capacity into the compartment;
- the battery cannot be revived by heating;
- Install batteries with the parameters specified in the operating instructions for the mirror (cabinet).
Fluorescent lamps
Power must be supplied to the installation location of the lamp. Installation of the product begins with assembly. The kit comes with detailed instructions. It lists all structural elements, provides a connection diagram, and provides detailed assembly instructions.
The housings of modern lamps are universal. They can be mounted on any surface (vertical, horizontal). Marking of attachment points is done using a laser level or level. The fasteners are fixed with a dowel and a self-tapping screw with a press washer, and the body is fixed to them. The input cable is inserted in the required places. To control fluorescent lamps, a switch is provided in the circuit; for 2 groups of lamps, two-key models are used; for a single lamp (group), a single-key switch is sufficient.
With motion sensor
For convenience, motion sensors are included in the lighting circuit. Products with degree of protection IP65 are suitable for bathrooms. Mini sensors fit better into the interior. PD9-V-1C-SDB-IP65-GH is installed on the ceiling. This model has small dimensions - 36 * 52 mm. Using spring clips, the sensor is mounted in a lamp or suspended ceiling. It can be placed in the first humidity zone.
During installation, high-quality insulation of the wires is performed and the operation of the sensor is adjusted. If there is no movement, the lights turn off after a certain period of time. When a moving object appears in the bathroom, light sources connected in the same circuit with the sensor turn on.
Motion sensors save energy by 40-80%. Increases comfort level. Classic switches are not needed. The lights light up when a person enters the motion sensor area. Installation instructions included:
- choose an installation location in the area where the mirror is located (cabinet);
- the lamp is attached to the wall or ceiling;
- connect the device wires to the electrical network wires;
- The twisted areas are wrapped with electrical tape.
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Peculiarities
Mirrors with LED lighting have a number of characteristic features:
- First of all, they have an interesting design, which allows you to transform the room.
- Typically, products are used as an additional, rather than the main source of light. They can work separately from the basic lighting, creating a romantic atmosphere in the room.
- The shape and dimensions of the mirror sheets can be any. They can complement even a small space well.
- You can choose the best option for any interior style.
- You can choose the location of light sources and their number yourself.
- Many LED-illuminated mirrors are equipped with a transformation mechanism, which makes them convenient and compact to use.
- Products can fit perfectly into fittings and furniture, and be combined with other interior elements.
- Models are often equipped with additional devices, for example, a monitor or telephone connection. You can also find all kinds of light control systems that make the process of using the device more convenient.
- The product is complemented by a set of accessories, which may include batteries, an AC adapter, and carrying cases. In the bathroom, options with an outlet are often used.
- Mirrors with ice lighting can be used for zoning space. By arranging them correctly, you can divide both large and small interiors into cozy zones.
List of sources
- vanna-expert.ru
- ciscoexpo.ru
- vannapedia.ru
- moyavanna.com
- design-vannoy.ru
- www.sdmeb.ru
- mebeltrends.ru
- www.brigada.biz