Bulkhead lights are rugged, durable lighting fixtures commonly used in both indoor and outdoor settings. Known for their tough construction and resistance to harsh environments, these lights are ideal for areas where reliability, weatherproofing, and safety are top priorities.
What Are Bulkhead Lights?
A bulkhead light is a wall- or ceiling-mounted fixture designed with a protective housing—often oval or round in shape—that encloses the bulb and shielding (usually a frosted or clear diffuser with a metal or plastic grille). Originally designed for ships (hence the name), they’re now widely used in:
Commercial buildings
Parking garages
Corridors and stairwells
Outdoor walls and walkways
Industrial sites
Utility rooms and basements
Key Features
Weather-resistant: Often rated IP65 or higher (dust-tight and waterproof)
Impact-resistant: Made from robust materials like polycarbonate or die-cast aluminum
Vandal-resistant: Secure housing protects against tampering
Efficient lighting: Available in LED versions for long-lasting performance
Types of Bulkhead Lights
1. Material-Based
Plastic/Polycarbonate Bulkheads: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and budget-friendly.
Metal (Die-cast Aluminum or Steel): More rugged and durable; suitable for high-impact or industrial environments.
2. Shape and Design
Oval: Classic look; often seen in traditional or marine-style settings.
Round (Circular): Modern, sleek design for contemporary environments.
Square/Rectangular: Boxy look for utilitarian spaces.
3. Light Source
LED Bulkhead Lights: Most popular today; energy-efficient, long-lasting, and low-maintenance.
Fluorescent: Older technology; less efficient and being phased out.
Halogen or Incandescent: Rarely used now due to high energy use.
4. Mounting Options
Surface-mounted: Fixed directly to walls or ceilings.
Recessed: Embedded into walls or ceilings for a flush finish.
Ceiling vs. Wall Mounted: Most are versatile, but placement affects beam spread and brightness.
Common Applications
Residential: Outdoor walls, garden paths, garage areas.
Commercial: Entrances, corridors, service areas.
Industrial: Warehouses, workshops, loading bays.
Marine: Boat decks, docks, ship cabins.
Advantages of LED Bulkhead Lights
Up to 80% energy savings vs. older bulbs
Lifespan of 20,000 to 50,000 hours
Minimal maintenance
Instant-on with no flicker
Compatible with motion sensors and timers
Special Features to Consider
Dusk-to-dawn sensors: Automatically turn on at night
Motion sensors (PIR): Enhance security and save energy
Emergency backup versions: Stay lit during power outages
Dimmable options: Allow control over brightness levels
Colour temperature choices: From warm (2700K) to cool daylight (6000K)
Final Tips for Buying Bulkhead Lights
Check IP rating for outdoor or wet-area use (IP65+ recommended).
Match brightness and color temp to the intended space.
Choose LED for efficiency and longevity.
Look for robust housing for high-traffic or high-impact zones.
Install with sensors for security and automatic operation.