Can you install a Can light in stairwells??

[rt66electric]

A large remodel of an Old wood structure, Mostly paint and patch the wall coverings.
In the main old wood stairwell, it is fairly narrow 48in wide? It currently has t-grid under covering the wood stair-treads from the floor above, The ceilings are not very tall and are constantly damaged by teenagers. currently there is a 2x4 t-grid fixture at each landing
The plans call for single layer of sheetrock and can lights to be installed, I feel it is a fire hazard,
What is the best method for illumination???

Dennis

 

[Dennis Alwon]

IC cans can be installed and can even touch the wood however you may feel heat thru the treads. Non IC Cans must be 1/2" from combustibles. Generally I try and keep it clear of wood -- you can also use an LED or cfl bulb and you won't get the heat as you do from an incandescent

 

[PowerSupportElec]

I feel it is a fire hazard

What do you think makes this a fire hazard?

Recessed lights are installed in single layers of drywall and in close proximity to wood framing and plywood flooring all the time.

 

[conmgt]

You can put some .5" Hardie Backer tile board against the wood the you are worried about.
I had a customer complain that the hardwood floor directly above each can light was quite warm and worrisome for him.
Now I try to put some backer board or drywall above a can with a little air space between it and the wood above.