Frequently Asked Question's
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You must have lots of questions....
Welcome to our FAQ page. We've covered a lot of questions below, but please feel free to reach out to us with any queries that you have.
FAQ's
What's your lead time, how long will it take to make and ship?
The processing time, or estimated delivery time, depends on how long the design process takes and then sourcing materials in order to make your light. Rest assured it will be completed as soon as possible.
We hand make all of our creations in our studio there are two of us full time, and one part time member of staff. Sometimes orders before yours can be delayed and that has a knock on effect, our lead times are estimates and are subject to change.
If you have a deadline, then please send us a message and we will discuss if we can confidently agree to it.
You can view our current lead time, and status of your order, on the client page of our website.
When will I receive my order?
Please go to our client page to view current lead times and the order queue.
We hand make all of our creations in our studio. There are two of us full time, and one part time member of staff. Sometimes orders before yours can be delayed and that has a knock on effect to our other orders. We are a husband and wife team and so we can have family issues or illness that can delay us. Therefore our lead times are estimates, and are subject to change.
(Big sofa companies with huge infrastructure and hundreds of staff can struggle to ship orders within six months - we won't take that long). Having something handmade, just for you, can sometimes take a little longer than expected, but it will be worth the wait.
Your lead time is long, can I get my fixture quicker?
Our lead time is often 8 weeks or more, and we understand that you may be having work done now, or in the near future, and may not be able to wait for your fixture. Therefore to save time, and also the cost of having your electrician back, we can send an advance a hanging kit which includes your ceiling hooks, screws, ceiling cap with pre-wired small three pin connector plug with the drawing of your fixture for your builder/electrician to install in advance. That way, when your fixture arrives, it is simply a case of hanging and plugging in (we will have made sure that there is space in the top of the timber to hide the plug, so the view from below will still be seamless). This also makes it easy to take down your fixture for cleaning in the future. If you would like to see our current lead time, please vist our client page for more information. Once we have confirmed your order we will add you to our client page and you can keep an eye on the progress of your order from there.
Do you offer a guarantee on your lighting fixtures?
Our bespoke lighting fixtures should last for many many years to come, there is no reason why they should fail. However, sometimes things do go wrong, and so we do offer more than the standard legal warrantee or guarantee that you are protected by under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, which states that "items must be of satisfactory quality, as described, fit for purpose and last a reasonable length of time. You have these rights for six years in England and Wales or five years in Scotland." As long as your fixture has been installed by a professional competent person, has been installed as per our instructions enclosed with the fixture, and has not been altered or tampered with in any way, we will guarantee your bespoke lighting fixture for life. Items that we do not make, but we supply, will have their own manufacturers guarantee and we are happy to give you more details, please do get in touch.
What are my design choices for wooden lighting fixtures?
You choose the stain colour and finish of the timber, the cable colour, and finish of the bulb holders. We also need to know the distance that you would like between the ceiling and the top of the chandelier and also the maximum drop length (to the bottom of the bulb holder). Once you have chosen your components, and we have agreed on the overall size and finish, we will put the light together in our workshop and before the final wiring we will discuss with you the final lengths and juxtaposition (pattern) of the bulbs. We never make a decision on your behalf, we always ask you first and we keep you fully informed every step of the way to ensure that you receive exactly what you want for your home.
Can I choose my timber?
We will ask you about what rustic level of the reclaimed timber you would like on a scale of 1 - 10, one being neat and ten being super rustic, and knarly. We will send you photos and videos via WhatsApp of the reclaimed timber we have if you are unable to personally visit the studio. The you have hundreds of choices of cable and components styles and colours - but don't worry, we will guide you through the process.
What timber do you have to choose from, and how many bulbs can I have?
We have many gorgeous species of reclaimed timber in our studio, and if we don't have the perfect piece for your home, we will try to find it. We take into consideration many factors when designing the perfect lighting fixture for your home, or business. We have some basic recommendations about where to start when designing, but ultimately, the overall size, shape and finish is totally up to you. Some people like lots of bulbs clustered tightly together, others prefer the bulbs further spread apart across the canopy to show off the reclaimed timber more. Some wish to wrap the cables around the outside of a reclaimed timber beam, others prefer the cables passed through the centre.
Our ceilings are low/we are not sure of headroom, how low does your light hang?
We design the lighting fixture to fit your space, so the overall hanging length is up to you and we will make it to your specifications. We can draw you a scale plan of your room so that you can better imagine the light in your space, we will just need few measurements from you to do so. We often ask the height of the tallest person in the house, and recommend that the lowest bulb is at the forehead height of that person. That way, when talking across the table when standing, or bending over the table, the bulbs are not obtrusive to eye lines or bumped. When designing for an open space such as a living room or hallway, we need to take into consideration practicalities such as lifting children, arms in the air or putting on and removing clothing, that way we can make sure that the bulbs are not hit.
I want only a little bit of space between the ceiling and the wooden part of my light, how close can you get to the ceiling whilst still using chains?
The minimum distance that the light can hang from the ceiling, using chain and hooks, is 12cm. We can also attach the timber directly to the ceiling.
I have really high ceilings and need a long chain, how much is included in the base price?
For our standard fixtures, typically distance of 50cm between the top of the timber and the ceiling is included in the basic price (unless stated otherwise in the listing as some are designed for very high ceilings).
If you need a longer distance please message first as there will be an extra charge. Similarly if you would like a very long drop of cable below the light please do message us for a bespoke design and quote.
What measurements do you need?
We will get you to take some measurements and send us photos of your home. We will then draw a scale plan so that you can better imagine the lighting fixture in your space, and you will sign off on the design before we begin work. We need to know your maximum hanging length (the lowest you want it to hang from the ceiling) in order to work out how long we should make the cables. Where your light will hang is important, is it going over a table or does it need to clear head height? How high are your ceilings? If we know this information then we can help you work out the measurements to make sure that we design the perfect light for your space.
Do you know the sizes of bulbs to take that into account when working out the maximum drop?
Yes, we can advise on bulb sizes and will take them into account when designing your hanging light, please let us know which bulbs you are planning on using. We can also advise on bulb shapes, sizes and the practicalities of certain shapes and colours. If you are not sure about which bulbs you would like, we can build the fixture and make it adjustable so that we can try different bulbs when it's finished and you can decide then.
Installation and Troubleshooting Videos
We are currently building our YouTube channel which will include lots of easy to follow installation, trouble shooting and repair videos as well as 'how to build your own' and time lapse videos. Subscribe to our channel @mooboohome3014
Whilst we can offer advice on suitable hanging surfaces, as we are unable to inspect your ceiling, we suggest consulting a qualified tradesperson if in doubt about the suitability of a fixture for your space.
Do you send any fixings with the light?
We will send you components that match your choice of lamp holders. You will receive 2 x ceiling hooks, ceiling cap and chains with matching screws to use with your ceiling hanging parts, however these are wood screws and if they are not suitable for you ceiling type then please ask advice from a qualified builder or electrician.
Our wooden beam chandeliers and wooden cascade lights must be attached to a suitable surface. Therefore we do not recommend that our fixtures are attached to plasterboard, the hooks must be fixed to sound, and free of rot, joist timbers. If there are no joists in the correct position then we recommend having noggins fitted by a competent builder.
Take a look at our handy installation video which takes you through what's in the box and how to install your bespoke hanging light.
How heavy is the wooden beam light?
That really depends on the overall size and the timber that we use, hard or softwood. If you want to make sure that you can safely hang our light please do send us a message with details of the design style that you are interested in, and we can give you a weight estimate.
Can I hang a chandelier from my conservatory roof?
It depends on the construction of your conservatory.
We recommend that our wooden beam chandeliers and wooden cascade lights must be attached to a suitable timber surface. Therefore we do not recommend that our fixtures are attached to plasterboard, or PVC. The hooks must be fixed to sound, and free of rot, joist timbers. It is possible to strengthen a conservatory roof with timber to provide a suitable hanging point but we recommend consulting a qualified person.
It may be possible to fix to a metal frame, and some conservatory roofs have a central nut which can be utilised and we can provide a variety of hardware to assist with installation, but we do recommend consulting a qualified person to confirm suitability before placing your order.
Take a look at our handy installation video which takes you through what's in the box and how to install your bespoke hanging light.
Can the light be attached directly to the ceiling?
Yes. We can make a light that attaches flush to your ceiling (that does not include the chain, hooks and ceiling rose). There will be space for the electrical wiring and we will send instructions and hardware to assist with hanging. Take a look at our Flush Mount Chandelier for more infromation.
My ceiling is lathe and plaster, can I hang one of your chandeliers?
Yes! We just need to know this so that we can send you the appropriate length screws. Usually the screws that we provide with our hooks are 2" long. With lathe and plaster ceilings we will need to send you 3" or 4" screws to get through the lathe and plaster surface and safely into a joist.
Do I have to use vintage style bulbs?
No, you can use any bulbs that you like, but we find that decorative LED bulbs compliment our hanging lights perfectly, and are an important part of the design. The bulb holders for UK and EU fixtures are E27/ES, a standard screw fit. For North America and Canada, we use E26 screw fit bulb holders. We supply Calex LED decorative bulbs for use in the Uk and Europe and have a wide range in our web shop. These bulbs are tried and tested by us, are dimmable, have a long life (15,000 - 10 years of on 4 hours per day) and look just as good off as when on.
Will the chandelier work with a dimmer switch?
Yes, it is the bulbs that are dimmable, not the fixture. We supply Calex vintage style LED bulbs that are dimmable, if you buy from another supplier please make sure that it states that the bulb is dimmable in the product description/on the box. We highly recommend that you have a dimmer installed to get the full beauty from your wooden beam light. Being able to dim the bulbs from 1% to 100% gives you the versatility of having a main light with lots of output for everyday tasks and then you are able to dial it down for ambience when desired.
Why aren't bulbs included in the price?
The selection of bulbs available is vast and we want you to be able to choose your own look. Unless the bulb size, shape and colour are part of the overall design, bulbs are purchased separately. Prices vary depending on the size and shape of the bulbs and so it would be impossible for us to fold it into the price of the chandelier without knowing which shape, size and colour you want to use.
We can help you decide which bulbs to choose, theres lot to consider including practicality, size, shape, colour and ambience. We have bundles of experience with our range of bulbs and are happy to help.
If we don't have the exact type of bulb that you would like, we can help you source them from other manufacturers.
Where can I buy bulbs?
Vintage style decorative LED bulbs are widely available on online and now in most high street DIY and electrical shops. We stock a wide range of Calex bulbs, take a look at our bulb web shop. Calex bulbs are tried and tested by us and are very reliable, but there is no obligation to buy bulbs from us, there is a wide range available online.
How long do the bulbs last and are they guaranteed?
Calex bulbs generally have a life span of 15,000 hours - that means if you had them on for four hours per day, every day, they should last 10+ years. Of course sometimes things can go wrong. The standard warranty period on electrical items is two years within the EU. In case of a problem with a Calex bulbs we advise you to contact Calex directly with proof of purchase.
Can I put shades or mason jars on the bulb holders?
Yes, but please let us know when you order as we will need to use different bulb holders with shade rings to make sure that you can securely attach your shade or jar.
Do you use solid pieces of timber
Yes. We never use strip wood or multiple pieces to make it look like a beam. Our timbers are reclaimed solid, whole pieces.
Do you use rotten wood or pieces with woodworm?
If any of our pieces show any signs of past woodworm they are thoroughly treated as soon as they come into the workshop as we cannot afford to have worm in our studio spread to other timbers. Superficial rot can add to the rustic charm, however we won’t use anything too far gone and never screw hanging parts onto an un secure area. Before the chandeliers leave the studio they are hung for at least 24 hours to ensure that the fixings are solid and safe.
Quality Control, Safety and Compliance with Regulations
Before leaving our workshop each of our fixtures and lamps are thoroughly checked to make sure they are working correctly and are safe. We certify our fixtures with the UKCA mark which is the replacement for the universally recognised CE mark since the UK left the European Union. The UKCA(CE) mark is a certification mark that indicates conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area (EEA). The UKCA marking is the manufacturer's declaration that the product meets the requirements of the applicable UKCA directives. You can request to see a copy of our DoC (declaration of conformity, we are happy to share it with you).
Can you design lighting for more rooms in my house?
If you are looking for a more than a single fixture and a more comprehensive lighting design scheme throughout your home, we can then look at other places in your home where we can match lighting, be it with complementary lamps or wall lights, or pendants using the same cables, components and bulbs. This way you can have continuity across your space and be reassured that no one else will have interior lighting design like yours.
Can you make a chandelier or lamp for North America and Canada?
Yes! We design, make and ship our fixtures all over the world.
We will use US UNO thread lamp holders which are UL listed/recognised components, suitable for both the USA and Canada, but you will need to purchase light bulbs locally for an E26 screw fit in your correct voltage. Please feel free to ask any question you have, or to learn more click here.
I don't live in the UK, can you design and make a chandelier for me?
Many people are surprised to learn that we can design and make items for them even if they don't live in the UK. We have a lot of experience in designing and making custom lighting at a distance, so we are confident that we can do a great job for you regardless of where you live.
"It doesn't matter whether you live in London or Lisbon, New York or Milan, we can design and make you perfect lighting fixture, even if you're not local to us in Devon and can't pop into our studio".
At MooBoo Home, we understand that not everyone is able to come into our studio in person. That's why we offer a design service for those who can't come to us. Whether you live in the next town over or on the other side of the world, we can still help you get the perfect bespoke lighting for your home or business.
For more information about NorthAmerica and Canada click here.
I'd like an acoustic speaker with a vintage horn, do you have any in stock?
Please do get in touch and ask about our current vintage horn stock. If we don't have what you'd like in stock, we are more than happy to source the perfect horn for you. You are also welcome to source your own horn (eBay is a great place to start) and send it to us to be adapted.
How are large branch lamps shipped and what are the costs?
Shipping our large branch lamps is not possible by traditional couriers due to their size and delicacy. We use van couriers where the lamps are strapped to the van walls at collection and do not move until delivery. This eliminates excessive handling at depots, reduces the need for cardboard and plastic packaging, and ensures safe and damage free delivery. Therefore, the cost of shipping is not included, or charged at check out, as the cost varies depending on how big the lamp is, and its destination. Once we know the size and shape of the lamp we can get a quote. We use Shiply to put the job out to tender, then courier companies bid for the job and once we have found a good quote with a trusted company, we will confirm the price with you and if you agree, book the job. The cost of delivery will then be invoiced to you. You are more than welcome to collect your lamp from our studio.
If you would like a delivery estimate before placing your order, please get in touch to discuss your ideas for size, shape and design (and your delivery post code) and we can ask for courier estimates.
Why is it more expensive to buy your designs via a third party platform like Etsy?
Third party platforms such as Etsy and Amazon Handmade charge fee's for listing items as well as taking a percentage of the sale, charge fee's for processing payments and advertising costs. Buying direct from us will always be the cheapest option. Read more about this in our blog Understanding Pricing Differences: Why Buying Direct Saves You Money
I live in Devon, can you install my hanging light?
I'm afraid not, please take a look at our installation page for more information and recommended installers.
Do you deliver locally
We do not offer an in house delivery service, however we can ship our lighting fixtures directly to you.
If you are coming to collect your fixture, you can park right next to our studio for ease of loading.
Do you offer a recycling service?
Yes, but only on like for like items - for example, if you order a chandelier we can recycle your old lighting fixture for free, but we can't take your old TV. We do not offer a general recycling service.
WEEE (Waste Electrical and and Electronic Equipment) recycling compliance refers to the obligations on producers and retailers of electrical and electronic goods. Under the WEEE Regulations we must ensure processes and collection systems are in place so that old electrical and electronic appliances get reused and recycled, rather than being thrown away.
Can I provide my own timber?
Yes! In the first instance send us some photos and dimensions and we will discuss the design with you. We can send a courier to collect the piece and transform it into the perfect light fixture for you.
Do you refit old lamps, or do lamp adaptations?
We can strip out old electrics from lamps and replace the cables and components wiht modern safe versions. We can change lamsp from bayonet fittings to screw fit to allow you to use exposed decorative bulbs with the lamp base.
We can take pretty much anything and make it into a lamp! We have transformed wooden block planes, wooden spirit levels, cine projectors, storm lanterns, ceramics and hand made items into lamps. Please send us a photo of your piece and we can advise how to transform your piece into a lamp.