Guide to outdoor lighting
Lighting is an essential component of interior and exterior home design . Not only does lighting add style and make spaces more appealing , when done correctly , it also makes a home safer and more functional .
Homeowners who plan to utilize outdoor spaces like backyards , front porches and walkways to the fullest should think carefully about lighting . These guidelines can assist with selecting outdoor lighting fixtures .
Security lighting
Flood lights and security lights are a good investment for those who want to beef up visibility and security around the home . These lights are high-intensity and designed to illuminate large areas . The brightness and reach can serve as a preventive measure to keep animals and even criminals away . Motion-sensor lights will immediately engage if something crosses the path of the sensor . Some lights will remain on from dusk until dawn . Lowes Home Improvement suggests using the correct wattage on outdoor security lights so they flood an area thoroughly without affecting neighboring properties .
Wall , post and ceiling lights
Outdoor lighting fixtures beyond security options come in a variety of styles , according to Lamps USA . Wall lights are mounted to the outdoor wall of the home . These typically flank doorways or the garage . Post lights are often installed on the posts of decks and porches , or are free-standing on properties , providing visibility but also style . Ceiling-mounted lights may be above doorways or installed in any structure that has an overhead area . Warm-colored temperature bulbs in these fixtures can create an inviting atmosphere that is not too bright and jarring , especially when multiple lighting fixtures are working together . When selecting lighting for wall-mounted fixtures , experts suggest sizing up if you are not sure of the size to pick , as lights will look much smaller in scale from a distance .
Accent and landscape lighting
A bevy of accent lighting choices are available . Accent lighting is designed to enhance the mood and appearance of certain elements of a landscape . Accent lighting is not intended to add bright light . For example , upward-directed lights can be cast on trees or shrubs to accentuate their shapes . Accent lighting also may call out a structure , such as a garden or a fountain . While accent lighting may be hard-wired , homeowners who want the luxury of changing lighting can opt for solar fixtures , which are more mobile but not as bright .
Additional pointers
When shopping for bulbs , consider the number of lumens . A standard 100-watt bulb produces around 1,600 lumens . Security lights should range from 700 to 1,300 lumens for optimal brightness . Other lights needn ’ t be so bright .
Furthermore , ensure that any fixtures that are being used are safety-rated for outdoors . Wet-rated fixtures are designed to withstand direct exposure to outdoor elements , advises the design experts at Schoolhouse , a lighting and lifestyle goods company . Damp-rated fixtures are built for outdoor locations protected from harsh weather . Look for the product details or work with an electrician to choose the right lighting choices .
Lighting can transform outdoors spaces for the better . n
34 June | July 2022 Thomasville Scene