Just like with your indoor space, creating a comfortable outdoor living area requires some thought and planning to make the space your own. If you’re redesigning an outdoor patio area, picking out some cozy furnishing and a few fluffy pillows is a great start, but what about the lighting? Choosing the right lighting can really put the finishing touch on your new outdoor retreat. However, with so many outdoor lighting options to choose from, how do you decide which one will create the perfect outdoor setting? What if you’re considering adding some new porch lighting or just want to brighten up your landscaping, what lighting options are best?
The choices can be confusing, so to make your decision a little easier we have put together a guide to review the different outdoor lighting options available, including some suggestions on which options might work best for your area.
Porch Lighting
Porch lighting goes beyond just welcoming family, friends and visitors to your home. On pleasant spring and summer evenings it can make for a lovely gathering spot (add a few rocking chairs and you’re golden). When considering different porch light options, it is best to avoid using bulbs and/or fixtures that are too harsh. Depending on the size of your porch area you might need several fixtures to provide adequate lighting (and that’s okay). If this is the case, it’s best to add a few more fixtures that are not as bright, than have lights that are too bright.
Lighting that makes your porch too bright can produce a glare that is unpleasant for both you and your neighbors (and it’s not very inviting). Creating this type of atmosphere will ultimately make your porch far less relaxing. Consider using dim, yellow-tinted LED bulbs. Another benefit of using yellow-tinted bulbs is they don’t attract as many bugs and are far less expensive than the anti-insect lights currently on the market.
Patio Lighting
Your patio is a great area to gather year-round. From BBQs in the spring and summer months to sitting around the fire pit in the fall and winter, your patio often serves as an extension of your living space. Since a patio is such a wonderful place to entertain, people are always looking for unique patio lighting ideas that can create the right atmosphere. If you have a covered patio, a ceiling fan with lights is one option to consider – especially if you live in an area where evening temperatures are warmer. Wall sconces and step lights are other popular options, especially if your patio area is not covered. One of the most popular patio lighting options is outdoor string lights. String lights create a festive mood when draped from fencing and in/around doorways.
Landscape Lighting
Lighting beyond just your porch or patio that highlights your landscaping can really make your property standout. Using floodlights to illuminate trees and accent lighting in and around plants and shrubbery creates an elegant look. Floodlights and spotlights are also excellent ways to draw attention to focal points around your property.
Lighting up walkways and paths around your home or adding a lighted post helps create an atmosphere that is both friendly and inviting. Since many of the pathways lighting options are solar powered, you don’t have to connect to an electrical source. This provides you with the flexibility to move them around as needed.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is truly the finishing touch to create outdoor lighting that is both elegant and stylish. A lighted front yard lamppost, underwater lighting for a pond or fountain, floodlight to highlight trees, garden and driveway lights to illuminate pathways, or some hanging string lights around fencing can really enhance the curb appeal of your property. While some of these exterior lights may require an electrical source, many are available in a solar option. If you prefer the reliability of electric, an experienced electrician can ensure everything is setup and wired correctly.
Don’t Forget About Security
Adding lighting to your yard and landscaping will not only improve the look and feel of your property, it also adds a level of security. A well-lit home feels more secure and is more inviting to family, friends and guests. Outdoor motion detor lights are relatively easy to install and they can deter unwanted visitors. If you don’t already have them, consider installing them near all entryways and exits, around your deck and patio, and near any potentially hazardous areas (like a swimming pool, stairways, and other trip hazards).
Whatever lighting options you decide to add to your home Mr. Electric can help you get it all installed and up and running. We can even help you with some design options and ideas to get you started. To learn more call us or go online to schedule an appointment today.
