Outdoor landscape lighting can enhance a property by increasing its safety and security and highlighting its beauty after the sun goes down. But how does one get started with outdoor landscape lighting?
Look no further than this week’s blog post, which is perfect for beginners looking to upgrade outdoor spaces with landscape lighting. This blog outlines the basics of outdoor landscape lighting and how it will truly make a difference in transforming an outdoor space into the perfect outdoor nighttime setting.
Why Install Outdoor Landscape Lighting?
There are multiple ways in which installing outdoor landscape lighting transforms an outdoor space into a safe and aesthetically pleasing nighttime wonderland.
Outdoor landscape lighting increases a property’s safety levels. Hazards such as steps or a change in elevation can be hidden in the dark. Step lights, deck lights, and path lights are ways in which to illuminate these hazards and allow for safe navigation.
Security of a property is also increased with outdoor landscape lighting. With path lights, up lights, and flood lights, there are no shadows in which trespassers can hide. Feel safe in knowing that a well-lit property is not a target for break-ins.
Outdoor spaces usually have their own unique elements that make them special such as tall trees, water fountains, flagpoles, and statues. These elements make great focal points and outdoor landscape lighting can keep attention on them all night long.
The Essentials of Outdoor Landscape Lighting
While outdoor landscape lighting systems and designs will largely depend on the unique qualities of an outdoor space, there are shared common elements.
- Transformer: A transformer is an essential component of an outdoor landscape lighting project. It will reduce the 120V of a typical residential building to a safer 12V. Make sure that a transformer that can handle the electrical load and don’t exceed more than 80% of its capacity.
- Direct burial cable: This is how the lights will be connected to the power source. Direct burial cables are specially designed to be buried underground, which makes them easier to hide after installation. This ensures a cleaner look.
- Light bulbs: Think about what the desired effect would be and choose the appropriate light bulb to achieve that look. For example, to create a cozier feel, opt for lights that are warmer in color temperature and won’t be too bright.
- Lighting Fixtures: The variety of light fixtures caters to different needs. For example, lights may be needed for illuminating pathways or provide a gentle wash of light. Select light fixtures that will serve a specific purpose while also giving the desired effect.
- Connectors: Choose connectors that will be able to withstand the challenges of being outdoors and buried. High-quality connectors will ensure that the outdoor lights are reliable and operational.
Types of Outdoor Landscape Light Fixtures
A variety of outdoor landscape lighting fixtures are available to create a uniquely stunning lighting design, one that will showcase an outdoor space in all of its glory. Below is a list of common outdoor landscape lighting fixtures to use in an outdoor landscape lighting design.
Path lights
If there are any walkways in an outdoor space, make sure they are illuminated for safe and easy navigation throughout the space at night. Path lights are perfect as they provide a nice, soft glow. Stagger them along a walkway for a better look.
Up lights
Features such as trees, water fountains, statues, or flagpoles make an outdoor space unique. Use up lights to highlight them and give them the attention they deserve.
Downlights
Downlights provide nice, ambient lighting. Mount them in trees to give a moonlight effect that’s sure to transform any outdoor space into a magical wonderland.
Deck lights
Deck lights offer visual appeal and increased safety for outdoor decks. Use them to line the deck’s perimeter or light up stairs.
Well lights
For a more discreet look, consider well lights, otherwise known as in ground lights. These lights are installed flush to the ground and aim a beam of light upward at night. They are concealed during the day, but offer a big punch at night. They are used for applications similar to up lights.
Hardscape lights
Outdoor hardscape lighting illuminates steps, walls, and paths, reducing the risk of trips or falls. They also add a creative touch by highlighting shapes and shadows, giving an outdoor area an appealing look.
Flood lights
Sometimes a gentle wash of light is needed. Garden flood lights offer the perfect solution. Use them to blend different lighting elements for a more cohesive lighting design that results in a comfortable, yet stylish look.
Underwater lights
Light up water features at night with underwater lights! Underwater lights are specially designed and built to withstand being in a wet environment. From ponds and pools, they’ll definitely shine with underwater lights.
7 Expert Tips for Outdoor Landscape Lighting
To upgrade an outdoor landscape lighting system from beginner to expert, check out these tips:
- Create a lighting plan. Walk around the outdoor space and take note of which areas or spots will benefit from being lit at night. Areas such as stairs and pathways definitely need to be lit for safety. Focal points such as trees, arches, or water features should be lit to grab people’s attention.
- If one transformer can’t handle the electrical load, choose a bigger transformer or add another to avoid electrical damage or issues.
- Mix and match different lighting fixtures to create a layered lighting look, further customizing an outdoor landscape lighting system to perfectly suit an outdoor space.
- Use only lighting that is rated for outdoor use as these fixtures can withstand the challenges of being outdoors.
- Opt for high-quality fixtures made of a material that is durable and long lasting. One popular material for outdoor landscape lighting fixtures is brass. Brass can handle the harshest weather conditions. It will also patina over time, giving the brass light fixture a unique look.
- The color light temperature for an outdoor area will affect its ambiance. A warm color light temperature will make a space cozy and comfortable. Cooler color light temperatures are more suited for task oriented environments such as outdoor kitchens.
- Use features like glare guards to prevent glare and light trespass. They will also help prevent light pollution, which affects humans and wildlife alike.
Get Started with Outdoor Landscape Lighting at LightCh8in
Outdoor landscape lighting offers plenty of options to enhance an outdoor environment. For safety, security, and increasing a property’s curb appeal, outdoor lighting will make an outdoor space stand out in the dark.
With a free LightCh8in account, gain access to the lowest direct-to-contractor pricing and additional benefits on all the essentials of an outdoor landscape lighting system. From brass outdoor light fixtures, energy-efficient LEDs, premium direct burial cable, and other high-quality outdoor landscape lighting accessories, get everything needed to transform an outdoor environment into a well-lit and aesthetically pleasing setting that’s perfect for any occasion.