The key to spectacular outside lights is in the presentation. Every part of your outdoor space can be accented with lighting to produce an inviting and functional place to dwell. Today, consumers have practically unlimited choice in lighting solutions, making it possible to take your creativity to a whole new level. If you are a newcomer to this type of lighting, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a system and keeping safe during installation. There are many systems out there today that allow people with no prior knowledge in electrical installation to own, install and use a great outside light system.
Getting Started
With all of the choices available, you may be wondering where to begin. While there are more options that can be covered in a single guide, we will go over some great ways for beginners to jump in and get started. You may have heard of “low voltage lights” for outdoors. These systems come with a built in transformer box with a timer that allows you to set the lights for automatic use. Modern day consumers appreciate the convenience and elegance of a timer system because it is a no-hassle way to turn on lighting at night or any time you need it. These systems can be used without digging up the ground or walls to feed the wires, although this is the most professional way to go.
Getting a general idea of your lighting needs is a great first step in choosing a system. If you have outdoor furniture, consider placing lights around these areas. Tables and sitting areas are key areas to have lighting. These areas are where people will be dining and conversing. Keep in mind that a lighting solution is not limited by one type of light. For example, a table would be best paired with an outdoor lamp, but a sitting area would be best suited with a wall-mounted or free-standing light. If your outdoor space lies close to your home, consider installing light mounts into the wall at various places. If you have any outdoor kitchens, this can be an excellent place for good lighting.
Lighting systems can really shine through during events like birthday parties, pool parties, or any get-together. If you find you have a lot of empty space with nowhere to mount a light nearby, consider using free-standing units. The free-standing variety allows for light placement anywhere it is needed. Many are portable and can be moved at will. Keep in mind that you will have a cord running off of the light that will need to be routed so people do not trip over it.
Styles And Lighting Options
When installed correctly, outside wall lights produce a truly professional appearance. Homes vary greatly in colors and design, but wall mounts come in so many varieties that you can find the perfect match with ease. Just a few of the styles include rustic, modern, and elegant. Many mounts come with more than one light fixture built in for better light coverage. Consider the type of light bulb that is used in the mount. Incandescent bulbs provide a soft, yellowish tone that we are all accustomed to. However, these bulbs have a shorter lifespan than their LED counterparts. This means that replacement will be more frequent, so be sure to keep extra bulbs on hand. LED lights have an exceptional lifespan and require much less power to operate. People with extensive light systems should consider these cost-effective lights for a lower electricity bill in the long run. Personal preference comes into play when using LED light fixtures, because some people consider the light more unnatural than incandescent. A great alternative to either type is an energy smart “spiral” bulb. You can expect excellent light coverage and low power use with these kinds. They are slightly more costly but make up for it with energy savings.
Installation
Installation can be easy or tricky, depending on your expectations. For the proper look and feel of wall lighting, the cables must be run through the walls. With a “cable-less” look, people will pay attention to your fixture and lighting choice and not an unsightly cable. If doing this yourself is not an option, consider contacting a local electrician or lighting company for a free quote. Show them what lights you have purchased and where you would like them installed. A professional can give you expert advice on what placement is best and make recommendations that you didn’t think of. Non solar powered fixtures like an outdoor sconce or flush mount almost always require electrical installation.
Solar Power
For a wireless solution that can be installed by just about anyone, consider using outside solar lights. Solar technology takes energy from sunlight and coverts it into electricity which is stored in a rechargeable battery. At night, the outside lights will come on and be powered by the battery. Most systems will come with the batteries included. Outside solar lights come in a variety of mounts, including lamps, path lights, wall mounts, and hanging varieties. This is a very flexible solution for people looking for a quick and easy way to get a light system going. Solar lights use LED bulbs because of the low power consumption. Generally, solars do not provide as much light coverage as corded varieties. They are, however, more cost effective and can be used in greater abundance.
Fixtures
Choosing the right fixture material is not just a matter of looks. Consider the lifespan and upkeep of materials like wood, steel and aluminum. If you come across a fixture that appears to be wood, it is more likely it is made of a synthetic material with a veneer or plaster coating. These kinds will last a good while if kept clean. Check the product details to see if it has any UV light protection, as most plastics will degrade over time from sunlight exposure. However, being that these are lights built for the outdoors, most respectable manufactures build their products to last. Steel is a sturdy and long lasting material, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Unless it is stainless steel, make sure the fixture has a lacquer or paint coating, as steel can rust when exposed to water and rain. If scratched, the fixture can become exposed to water and rust, so treat it with care. Aluminum, however, is rust-proof, lightweight and durable. Aluminum can be coated with an abundance of paints, textures and styles and has an exceptional lifespan.
Colorization is a great way to add dimension to different areas of your outdoor space. For example, areas where dining and conversing take place would benefit from a yellow, white, or even blue light tone. But for your garden or pool area, you can add eccentric colors like purple, red, orange, or green for a unique look. Garden areas can be easily accented with solar or path outside lighting. Brighten up those dark and foreboding areas of your yard with some color to make it more inviting. Visitors will appreciate your creativity by using outdoor garden lights.
Adding dimension and elegance to your home through the use of outside lights doesn’t have to be a daunting task. The more you let the creative juices flow, the better you can picture what you want. Don’t let yourself be limited by lights which require a bit more complicated installation – there are professionals near you that can get the job done quickly and easily.
| The key to spectacular outside lights is in the presentation. Every part of your outdoor space can be accented with lighting to produce an inviting and functional place to dwell. Today, consumers have practically unlimited choice in lighting solutions, making it possible to take your creativity to a whole new level. If you are a newcomer to this type of lighting, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a system and keeping safe during installation. There are many systems out there today that allow people with no prior knowledge in electrical installation to own, install and use a great outside light system. With all of the choices available, you may be wondering where to begin. While there are more options that can be covered in a single guide, we will go over some great ways for beginners to jump in and get started. You may have heard of “low voltage lights” for outdoors. These systems come with a built in transformer box with a timer that allows you to set the lights for automatic use. Modern day consumers appreciate the convenience and elegance of a timer system because it is a no-hassle way to turn on lighting at night or any time you need it. These systems can be used without digging up the ground or walls to feed the wires, although this is the most professional way to go. Getting a general idea of your lighting needs is a great first step in choosing a system. If you have outdoor furniture, consider placing lights around these areas. Tables and sitting areas are key areas to have lighting. These areas are where people will be dining and conversing. Keep in mind that a lighting solution is not limited by one type of light. For example, a table would be best paired with an outdoor lamp, but a sitting area would be best suited with a wall-mounted or free-standing light. If your outdoor space lies close to your home, consider installing light mounts into the wall at various places. Lighting systems can really shine through during events like birthday parties, pool parties, or any get-together. If you find you have a lot of empty space with nowhere to mount a light nearby, consider using free-standing units. The free-standing variety allows for light placement anywhere it is needed. Many are portable and can be moved at will. Keep in mind that you will have a cord running off of the light that will need to be routed so people do not trip over it. When installed correctly, outside wall lights produce a truly professional appearance. Homes vary greatly in colors and design, but wall mounts come in so many varieties that you can find the perfect match with ease. Just a few of the styles include rustic, modern, and elegant. Many mounts come with more than one light fixture built in for better light coverage. Consider the type of light bulb that is used in the mount. Incandescent bulbs provide a soft, yellowish tone that we are all accustomed to. However, these bulbs have a shorter lifespan than their LED counterparts. This means that replacement will be more frequent, so be sure to keep extra bulbs on hand. LED lights have an exceptional lifespan and require much less power to operate. People with extensive light systems should consider these cost-effective lights for a lower electricity bill in the long run. Personal preference comes into play when using LED light fixtures, because some people consider the light more unnatural than incandescent. A great alternative to either type is an energy smart “spiral” bulb. You can expect excellent light coverage and low power use with these kinds. They are slightly more costly but make up for it with energy savings. Installation can be easy or tricky, depending on your expectations. For the proper look and feel of wall lighting, the cables must be run through the walls. With a “cable-less” look, people will pay attention to your fixture and lighting choice and not an unsightly cable. If doing this yourself is not an option, consider contacting a local electrician or lighting company for a free quote. Show them what lights you have purchased and where you would like them installed. A professional can give you expert advice on what placement is best and make recommendations that you didn’t think of. For a wireless solution that can be installed by just about anyone, consider using outside solar lights. Solar technology takes energy from sunlight and coverts it into electricity which is stored in a rechargeable battery. At night, the outside lights will come on and be powered by the battery. Most systems will come with the batteries included. Outside solar lights come in a variety of mounts, including lamps, path lights, wall mounts, and hanging varieties. This is a very flexible solution for people looking for a quick and easy way to get a light system going. Solar lights use LED bulbs because of the low power consumption. Generally, solars do not provide as much light coverage as corded varieties. They are, however, more cost effective and can be used in greater abundance. Choosing the right fixture material is not just a matter of looks. Consider the lifespan and upkeep of materials like wood, steel and aluminum. If you come across a fixture that appears to be wood, it is more likely it is made of a synthetic material with a veneer or plaster coating. These kinds will last a good while if kept clean. Check the product details to see if it has any UV light protection, as most plastics will degrade over time from sunlight exposure. However, being that these are lights built for the outdoors, most respectable manufactures build their products to last. Steel is a sturdy and long lasting material, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Unless it is stainless steel, make sure the fixture has a lacquer or paint coating, as steel can rust when exposed to water and rain. If scratched, the fixture can become exposed to water and rust, so treat it with care. Aluminum, however, is rust-proof, lightweight and durable. Aluminum can be coated with an abundance of paints, textures and styles and has an exceptional lifespan. Colorization is a great way to add dimension to different areas of your outdoor space. For example, areas where dining and conversing take place would benefit from a yellow, white, or even blue light tone. But for your garden or pool area, you can add eccentric colors like purple, red, orange, or green for a unique look. Garden areas can be easily accented with solar or path outside lighting. Brighten up those dark and foreboding areas of your yard with some color to make it more inviting. Visitors will appreciate your creativity. Adding dimension and elegance to your home through the use of outside lights doesn’t have to be a daunting task. The more you let the creative juices flow, the better you can picture what you want. Don’t let yourself be limited by lights which require a bit more complicated installation – there are professionals near you that can get the job done quickly and easily. |
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