You can't install them in a 1/2" space. I have didn't read well enough and they are thick.I bought a 10 pack from another supplier and they were set at 1/2". That means if you have 1/2" thick drywall you put them anywhere I never paid attention to how thick they are. When I cut the hole over the shower I only had 1/2" beam at the top. Needless to say I had to trim it to fit. They are about 1" thick and have a junction box on the back. The 1/2" have a cord with a separate junction box so you can place them anywhere. The light was already blinking twice when I turned it on. I'll see if it holds up. I have it at the beach and we only use it on weekends so hopefully it will last a long time. Decent light but if you want 1/2 inch you won't get it.