Understand Your Options for Outdoor Landscape Lighting

Tips on Understanding Your Options for Outdoor Landscape Lighting

Outdoor landscape lighting can add a unique aesthetic to the exterior of your home. It is the perfect way to create atmosphere and ambiance while enjoying the outdoors after dusk. Landscape lighting is continuing to become more popular, as it provides the perfect opportunity to transform your garden space into something extraordinary. However, there are several different types of outdoor landscape lighting, making it difficult to identify which one is right for you. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing the different types of outdoor landscape lighting, so that you can make an informed decision on which option suits you best.

What is Outdoor Landscape Lighting? 

Outdoor landscape lighting specifically refers to the installation of outdoor electrical fixtures with the purpose of enhancing (or even creating) a great atmosphere outdoors. It is most commonly installed amongst trees, plants, and other outdoor features, installing light in areas that would usually be in the dark. It is used for a variety of purposes, from providing homeowners and their guests with a fantastic showcase, to providing a more secure environment. 

Types of Lighting 

When it comes to understanding your outdoor landscape lighting options, it’s important to know the different types of lighting, so that you can better decide which option is the best for you. 

Task Lighting 

Task Lighting is light used to easily illuminate a specific area of the garden. This type of lighting can be used for a variety of things, such as providing a suitable pathway for your family and guests to follow when it is dark, and even allowing you to continue working in your garden, with enough light to be able to see. It is great for keeping your guests safe, and is a practical and functional type of outdoor lighting. 

Security Lighting 

Security lighting is another popular form of outdoor lighting. This type of lighting is designed to provide a secure environment around your home, using motion sensors as a way to provide extra security. This type of lighting is perfect for those looking for added security for their home. 

Accent Lighting 

Accent lighting is slightly different to security lighting. This type of lighting provides a more aesthetic and beautiful ambiance to the garden. It is considered to be mood lighting, as the purpose is to create atmosphere, rather than providing illumination for security purposes. Accent lighting is used to add colour and light to specific areas of your property, such as trees, flowers and walls. 

Uplighting 

Finally, uplighting is another type of outdoor lighting, and is most commonly used to add depth and dimension to their garden at night. Uplighting is quite different to accent lighting, as it is used to highlight certain elements of your garden that are otherwise hard to spot during the day. This is usually achieved by positioning lighting fixtures in a way that will cast light upwards, making the outdoor places you normally wouldn’t see a feature in the night. 

Additional Outdoor Lighting Options 

In addition to the four main types of outdoor lighting mentioned above, there are several other variations of outdoor lighting. These include post lights, spotlights, deck and step lighting, and flood lights. All of these are designed to make your outdoors look spectacular, and can be used in different ways depending on the look and feel you are trying to create. 

Lighting Materials 

When considering which type of outdoor lighting is right for you, it is important to understand the different materials the lights are made from. These materials range from metal to plastic, and will not only affect the look of your garden, but can also affect the overall functionality of the fixture. Let’s take a look at the various available material: 

• Plastic. Plastic fixtures are a very popular option when it comes to outdoor landscape lighting. Plastic is a very cost-effective material and can be used on virtually any landscape. It is also incredibly durable and resistant to weather, making it the perfect option for those who want an easy installation and are looking to save money. 

• Metal. Metal outdoor lighting fixtures are great for those who want a timeless look for their landscape. It is available in a number of finishes, including bronze and stainless steel. Metal is very durable and will last longer than plastic fixtures, making it a more attractive option for those looking to invest in outdoor lighting. 

• Glass. Glass lighting fixtures can be used to improve the look of your garden from season to season. They are also a great way to add mood lighting to your property, adding sparkle and illumination that can be truly captivating.

LEDs vs Incandescent Lighting 

When it comes to lighting for your property, it is important to consider the difference between LED and incandescent lighting. LED lighting is an effective and long-lasting form of lighting, with a minimal impact on your energy costs. It comes in a wide variety of colours and is the newer and more efficient option for lighting up your exterior. Incandescent lights, on the other hand, are slightly less efficient, and use more energy, but still provide good illumination with a lower price tag. 

How to Safely Install Outdoor Lights 

When installing outdoor lighting, safety must always be taken into consideration. A few things you should be aware of when installing outdoor lighting include: 

• Always contact a professional electrician for installation. This will ensure the job is done both safely and correctly 

• Make sure all lighting fixtures are firmly attached and in the right positions. This will prevent any movement and reduce any possible risks. 

• Consider headroom for your landscape lights. Make sure the lights are at least six feet above the ground to prevent them from being prone to wind damage. 

• Think about height. Make sure your lights are not too low that they could be bumped by someone walking through the garden, but not too high that they look disconnected from other elements.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, understanding your options for outdoor landscape lighting is key to ensuring you make the right decision for creating the best atmosphere in your garden. Additionally, it’s important to know what materials are right for you, as well as understanding the differences between LED and incandescent lighting. Ultimately, with the right guidance, you can create the perfect outdoor landscape that you have always wanted.