Landscape Lighting Buying Guide


Landscape Lighting

Getting Started

The Importance of Landscape Lighting

What to Consider

Before installing the lights, identify the features that you like. It can be a tree or a pond – highlighting those will make them pop. Besides, think of adding intrigue to places that do not stand out duting the day. A stone wall can get new personality at nigh when lit with proper lights.

Cost Considerations

It is hard to estimate the final cost, but allowing around $350 per light fixture to cover installation and product will give you an idea of how much you should be ready to spend.

Functions

Stay Warm

Warmth is measured in Kelvinsand it varies from one product to the next and affects the visual appeal of your outdoor area. Fixtures with 3,000K (cool temperature) create a nice, warm, and inviting glow in your garden.

Decorative Styles

Key Design Principles

Size

One of the most common mistakes that many people make when choosing landscape lighting for the front of their homes is choosing small fixtures. Note, that decorative lighting enhances the curb appeal, so you want your visitors to see these fixtures (or at least some of them). Don’t be afraid to choose a bigger size – especially for homes with large facades.

Entry Lighting

The rule of thumb is exterior light fixtures that are used to illuminate the entryway should be sized in proportion to the door.

The Bigger the Better - Wall sconces by the front door should be anywhere from 1/4 to 1/3 the size of the door itself. Remember, that lanterns will only appear to be half the size from 50 feet away. Always place the bigger lanterns by the front door (versus the garage door, for example).

Get The Right Position - Quite often, outdoor lanterns should be placed at eye level. The main light source should be approximately 6 feet off the ground.

Garage Lighting

If you are thinking about installing garage fixtures on the top of your garage, be sure to center them over the door for proper illumination that stretches over the full width of the door.

LED Lighting

LED lighting is not common yet, but it offers several advantages over traditional light sources that are specific to landscape lighting. Consider getting LED outdoor fixtures to enjoy the benefits.

Safety - Because LEDs don’t produce heat like other light fixtures, they are cool to the touch and are less risky for outdoor lighting. Besides, kids can play around them without the risk of burns.

Energy - Landscape lights are left turned on for hours, so energy saving is an important benefit. LED bulbs allow for almost 80% savings on energy consumption.