Wow, what a thread. After three nights of reading I’ve finally made it all the way through the thread. First off, thanks to all, particularly Platonic Solid who have contributed their time, knowledge and expertise to illuminating this subject. (Sorry, couldn’t resist.) It was interesting to see the transition from the start of the thread until now in reference LED’s versus the other options. At this point it seems that the time for LED has finally come, especially for new construction which is my situation.
That said, I’m currently in the process of looking for lighting for a 30’ x 46’ wood shop that I am currently having built. A small office, bathroom and dust collection room will consume up about 8’ on one end with a loft above them. So, the effective space that I’m really concerned about lighting will be 30’ x 38 or 1140 square feet. The walls will be 12’ high with a peak of about 19.5’. The slab has been poured and framing started today in between the gushing downpours of rain we had. Currently, my builder has allowed for 16 fixtures in four rows of four. He has suggested holding down costs by using the cheap porcelain fixture which takes a screw in bulb and then using LED flood lights. Based upon my research thus far I haven't found any floods that would provide enough lumens.
I’ve read, and re-read the updated version of the first post and, because some of this is still beyond my own understanding I’m looking for suggestions. I’d like the shop to be well lit.
So, thus far, I’ve come to the following conclusions:
Get as close as I can afford to 100 lumens per square foot.
Frosted lamps seems to be a wise decision as far as glare is concerned.
LED seems to be more cost efficient all things considered, including the cost of electricity itself.
CRI of about 85.
Does anyone have any suggestions?