[color=blue]
> While the coffee can shades most of the light and transfers most of the
> heat, my concern is that a small amount of light does leak out from the base
> of the coffee can while the light bulb is on - I'm worried that this may
> affect my beer.
>
> Anyone know if the light from an incandesant light bulb will damage my beer
> ? does it take hours, days or weeks of exposure ?[/color]

Generally speaking, incandescent light should NOT affect your beer.
The "skunking" light wavelengths are present in florescent light and
sunlight, but not in incancdescent light.

If you still have concerns, perhaps a T-shirt over your carboy would
help your feelings!? :)