If you are thinking about using recessed cans, you are correct in that it will require more fixtures to produce a decent amount of light and the cost to run them will be higher. There are companies that make recessed fluorescent fixtures (example http://www.goodmart.com/products/1101619.htm ) which might be more economical in the long run.
In my current garage I have surface mounted fluorescent modules, But.
In my previous garage I recessed 2 x 4 four bulb fluorescent 'troffler' style dropped ceiling units into the ceiling - 2 per bay (one over engine and one over trunk). They are inexpensive - and sometimes free from office building remodulers if you look around. Use natural day light bulbs for best effect.
Recess them by installing the units between the ceiling joists by cutting away the drywall and 'flush' mounting them to the joist directly. To trim them out - I used 2.5 wide door casings 45'd in the corners like a picture frame and finish nailed them to the joist and caulked on both sides of the casing. I got mine free and the only cost was the better bulbs I wanted. I also did my Dad's garage that way - so yell if you need pics and I'll get them.
And don't forget to wire the hot line from the switch to the light so that when the switch is off - there is no power to/in the lighting circuit. Don't power the assys full time and only switch the return wire. A short in the ballast or somewhere in the circuit if wired hot has resulted in a ceiling fire - and I'd hate to see that gorgeous car get burned to the ground.
Jim
ADDED:
I also recommend recessed 'task' lights while you're in there - with fluorescent for bright general area lighting.
Last edited by Garage Dog 65; 10-02-2008 at 07:51 PM.
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