Conceivably, only as thick as the ballast! That's the thickest component. But realistically, the total thickness (or height) depends on the structural frame because each component has to mount on something. Here I'm using 1/4" plywood, aluminum flashing and 3/32" thick acrylic diffuser. The resulting fixture measures less than 1 3/4".
 Maple end pieces define the shape. Aluminum flashing was cut to length, folded slightly and sandwiched between the maple and plywood. A small piece of aluminum covers the ballast for appearance. Fasteners are staples (spring and pneumatic driven) and screws (1/4" for sheet metal). There was hardly any drilling — just aim and shoot (or screw). |
Why so thin?
Because it had to clear the overhead garage door.
Total cost
The 36" 30W T8 fluorescent tubes were relatively expensive at about $6.00 each due to being less common than the 48" size. For this garage, its brightness and proportions are perfect. Total cost including ballast, sockets, aluminum and tubes: $35 each. I built two.
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