Outdoor lights aren’t just for the holiday season. Outdoor lighting’s functionality extends far beyond one-season decor.
Outdoor lights require just as much attention as your indoor ones. They can add comfort, beauty, and security to your home. Keep reading for our five outdoor lighting tips!
1. Go Solar
Outdoor lights can have three different power sources: electric, battery, and solar. Today there are so many outdoor solar lights to choose from, you won’t even have to consider the other two options.
Solar lights are best for the environment. They are powered by natural daylight and thus don’t consume any energy. This also means that once installed, you won’t be spending even a dime on your outdoor lighting.
Compared to electric and battery-powered lights, solar lights also require no monitoring since they are self-starting. No need to worry about unplugging or changing batteries. The only necessity with solar lights is that their panel is placed in a spot that receives enough sun to charge.
2. Think About Your Climate
The weather where you live will have a large impact on your lighting choices. If you live in a temperate climate like California and are always entertaining outdoors, you might want to put the majority of your solar lights on a patio or deck. This lighting will be practical for nighttime outdoor dining.
A winter climate like New England can also have patio lighting. It might also be important to focus on decorative lighting for the long winter to cheer up gloomy nights in addition to security lighting for when it gets dark early.
3. Security Lighting
The strategic placement of lights will make your home feel more secure. Make sure to place lights around doors and entry points. Place lights outside of a garage door to keep your space secure.
For added safety, illuminate any dark corners of your house. These changes will also make it more comfortable for you when coming home at night.
4. Build Ambience
Outdoor lighting is also about building a cozy space, but there are so many options, it can feel overwhelming. It’s a good idea to work with a professional who can help map your entire outdoor space from expert drainage design and installation to patio lighting.
Some things to consider are: Do you want white lights or amber? Small bulbs or large? String lights or individuals?
Think about how your lights will be used. Entryway and garage lights should be bright to make things clear. Dining lights should be dim to create a relaxed atmosphere.
5. Consider Indoors
Placing a blazingly bright light outside that reflects into a bedroom will quickly prove to be a poor decision. The light can reflect into the house at night and make it hard to sleep. Before permanently installing any outdoor light fixtures, think about how they will interact with your indoor spaces, especially at night.
Outdoor Lights For Your Property
There are so many lighting styles and placements, the combinations are endless. Make sure that all lights serve function and style simultaneously. For more tips on creating your oasis, continue reading our “House and Garden” blog!
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