Finding the right outdoor lighting for your porch can be a challenge. With so many different options to choose from - including various styles and colors – how do you decide? Whether it’s creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for family, friends, and visitors, or creating a specific look and feel the porch lighting you choose will serve a specific purpose for your home. So which type of lighting is right for your porch? Here are some things to consider before you choose what kind of porch lighting is right for you.
Start with Your Purpose
First, it is important to take some time to determine what your goal is in lighting your porch. Are you looking forward to spend more time outside? Or do you simply want to increase your home’s security? This will help narrow your choices between lighting that is more stylish or more functional – and should help guide you closer to a decision. However, just because you prioritize one over the other (leisure over security) this doesn’t mean that security still can't play a role in your final choice. You don’t necessarily have to sacrifice one for the other. There are lighting options that can satisfy both needs, as long as you are clear on what your specific needs are.
Determine Light Locations
Once you have determined your lighting goals, you’ll need to figure out the right location for your porch lighting. Depending on your wants, needs, and existing wiring you may have the option to install lighting overhead, on the side, directly below, or a combination of all three. The position and placement of your lighting will create a different look and feel for your porch and could even help enhance the value of your home.
If you have porch lights and want to know how to change porch lighting that you already have, contact a local electrician for advice. He can make recommendations based on your existing wiring or install new or additional wiring to meet your needs. He can also advise you on how to replace porch lights to update the look and feel of your home.
The point is that each lighting option can provide your home with a different look and feel while enhancing the appeal and value of your home. If you are installing lights in a new location, make sure the measurement(s) for the new lighting is accurate and will fit in the location you choose. It’s very frustrating to purchase new lights only to discover they don’t fit where you want them.
Select Types of Lights
There are many different types of porch lights to choose from. Flush and semi-flush lights provide widespread lighting for large front porches. While wall scones create visual interest, and can be placed next to doors, or hung overhead as pendants. Some homeowners even choose to use string lights that crisscross above their porch – creating a beautiful ambience. String lights can be added to complement your existing lights or used separately. Although string lights help create a mellow, understated look, they don’t provide as much light as more traditional lighting, which may be an issue if security is one of your lighting priorities. However, if you decide to add string lights to your porch lighting, research ‘how to hang string lights on front porch’ for some creative options. What’s also great is that you can find many of these lighting styles with a motion-activated feature!
Choose the Right Light Materials
When it comes to materials, choosing a light fixture that matches the existing theme of your home is key. For example, if your home has brass doorknobs, finding brass lighting fixtures can add to your home's existing beauty. Or, if your home has black railing, black matte fixtures could be just the right choice. Choosing colors that complement rather than contrast your existing exterior usually work best to enhance your existing look.
Consider Bulb Options/Colors
Warm lights tend to work well for porch lights and entertainment areas since they are not harsh on the eyes (but still provide enough light to move around safely). But there are other bulb options too. Ever wonder how to keep bugs away from porch lights? Many people opt for lights that have a yellow, pink, or orange tint, since they are stylish, and tend to attract less insects! Porch lighting can also make a statement. For example, blue porch lighting are often used to show support for police officers, and green porch lighting to support members of the military. Researching the different bulb color options will help you understand what each one means so you can change yours out accordingly.
Install, Upgrade, Replace Your Porch Lighting
Whether you spend a lot or very little time on your porch, choosing the right lighting can help create an inviting atmosphere, improve home security and add value to your home. If you would like to know how to change your porch lighting or if you’re interested in installing new light, the professionals here at Mr. Electric can help. We’ll inspect your existing wiring and provide you with some lighting options that will meet your needs. To get started, call us or schedule an appointment online today.
