Outdoor lighting has become a necessity for all homes. This lighting should create a safe and inviting atmosphere outside of your home to welcome your guests and help you find your way in the dark. Today, there are a number of outdoor lighting options for you to choose from but how do you know which will achieve your lighting goals and fit with the style of your home?
What outdoor light works for my home entry?
At your front door, your outdoor fixture should illuminate the entrance allowing you to easily lock and unlock it. This outdoor wall light should also allow you to identify anyone who is at your door at night. If your space allows, you should install an outdoor wall light on either side of your front door. This symmetrical look will add curb appeal to your home, making it look more inviting. These wall lights can also be used in an outdoor kitchen area or backyard hangout space. If you have a porch or roof over your backyard deck you should utilize an outdoor ceiling light fixture. This decorative light will add the perfect finishing touch to your front porch or backyard patio while enjoying time with family and friends.
What outdoor light works for stairways?
Add an elegant touch on the steps to your porch, patio or deck with LED step lights. This creates a beautiful look while illuminating each step for safety and ease of getting from place to place in your yard. Installing step lights gives you a sleek, modern design and provides beautiful warm white light for each step. These can be installed in the vertical panels of your stairs or in the wall to give each step a glow without having fixtures in the ground.
What outdoor light works for driveways and garages?
On the side of your home or over your garage door, you should consider adding LED security lights or floodlights. You will need to choose the ideal style security light depending on the size of your driveway and garage. Common styles have either 2 or 3 adjustable heads as well as energy saving features such as timers and motion sensors. Many security lights have photocell sensors (also called dusk-to-dawn sensors) that can automatically turn your security lights on when it gets dark and turn them off in the morning.
All of your outdoor lights should be suitable for damp locations and have a wide operating temperature range to ensure they can withstand any weather. Illuminating your home with exterior lighting improves your home’s curb appeal, security and design. Picking the right size outdoor lights is easier than you may think. Front door lighting can be done with one fixture or two. Keep in mind that you don’t want to over-light your outdoor space. Pay attention to the brightness or lumens of the light you’re purchasing. A little light goes a long way when it comes to outdoor lighting.