There are several uses for outdoor lights. Safety, security, creating an atmosphere, or highlighting a focal point are just a few examples. There are also a variety of types and styles available. Lighting can be found that suits any preference, color scheme, space, and budget. A few outdoor lighting tips can be helpful when selecting the right lighting for a specific purpose.
Positioning of Lights:
Where lights are placed primarily depends on the desired effect of the lighting. Those for security, for example, are usually placed directly over an entrance, above the garage doors, or on fence posts. Some can even be placed on the house itself, such as flood lights for the back yard.
Safety lights are strategically placed on steps, along paths and walkways, around a pool, or on the deck or patio. Lights for safety should be at different levels, and always pointing downward. That directs the eye to where the feet will be heading. Lighting for the patio, for example, should include low lights close to the ground, and higher lights for steps and doorways.
Soft lights can be placed around a water feature or a central garden to create a focal point for the yard. Recessed lighting casts a glow without creating a bright light. That effect highlights the feature without overpowering it.
Brighter lighting for outdoor entertaining, cooking, or parties can be hung from tree branches, strung up with cables, or connected directly to the ceiling of the patio or back porch. Many spaces designed for night time use have fixtures and outlets included for convenience
Types of Lighting:
Motion sensor lights are the most common lighting for outdoor area that are close to an entrance or garage. The lights stay off until someone, or something, enters the area. After a certain amount of time without any additional movement, the lights shut off automatically. It is a great way to provide cost-effective lighting for family members and guests that will be arriving at different times during the night.
Solar lighting is also perfect for outdoor uses. Lights are charged during the day, and glow well into the night. Gardens, seating, and decks can be lit without raising utility costs. Popularity of these lights has increased significantly, resulting in many varieties of styles. There are rustic and simple lamps and fixtures; elegant and ornate stones and pedestals; and fun and whimsical shapes.
LED lights are also available, as well as regular lights that are plugged into outdoor outlets. Dimmer switches can be added to lighting, as can programmable timers to control the operating of the fixtures. Enclosed candle holders are also available so the wind will not blow out the flames.
How to Select Lighting:
One of the most useful Outdoor lighting tips provided to homeowners is to search for lighting online. Department and home improvement stores, even lighting stores, are limited by physical space and storage capacity. There are only small display sections dedicated to outdoor lighting. In order to view hundreds of styles, in a wide range of pricing, the internet is the place to start looking for the perfect lighting outdoors.
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