A cellar light (Dutch: kelderlicht) is a window, grating or floor light that admits daylight (and sometimes air) into a cellar space. It is set in the cellar wall above ground level or — for a cellar under the pavement — as a walk-on light panel in the paving.
Types
- Cellar window in the facade — a small window just above ground level, often combined with a light well: a box-shaped structure in the ground that guides light and air to the cellar window.
- Floor light (pavement light) — historically built up from glass blocks in an iron or concrete frame with reinforcement, forming a walkable glass floor through which light falls into the cellar below.
- Rooflight or light well — modern versions to bring daylight to a sunken space.
Application
- Cellars used as living or working space — daylight is needed to make a cellar pleasant and usable.
- Semi-basements — extra light entry below street level.
- Cellars under the pavement — where no facade window is possible, a floor light still brings daylight in.
Points to watch
- With a facade cellar window, provide good drainage in the light well so no water stands against the window.
- Walk-on floor lights must be strong enough and slip-resistant.
- Combine daylight with ventilation to prevent damp in the cellar.
- A watertight connection to the cellar wall is essential to avoid leaks.
Related terms
- Cellar
- Light well
- Semi-basement
- Daylight factor
- Glass
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