When it comes to outdoor lighting, there is definitely a right way and a wrong way to do it. Not only does high quality outdoor lighting boost the value of your home and the curb appeal, but it can also make your home much safer at night. The right type of lighting in the right placement, can really put a finishing touch to your landscaping and home exterior. When lighting isn’t done right, though, it can be unattractive and impractical. Here are a few outdoor lighting mistakes that you’ll want to avoid.
Failure to Plan
Great lighting starts with careful planning. Simply grabbing the cheapest fixtures at the home improvement store won’t be enough to create stunning outdoor lighting. You’ll want to take a walk around your property and consider the areas that will need lighting. Some people find it helpful to draw a map of their property as well. This can help you plan more strategically. Before you head to the lighting store you should have a clear idea of how many lights you’ll need, where they’ll be placed, and how big you’ll want them.
Choosing the Wrong Locations
It’s imperative that you place your lights in the right areas of your yard for the best results. The placement will be a big part of the overall lighting situation you’ll create. If some of your outdoor lighting plans includes security lighting, then you’ll need to know the most strategic places to install them. You’ll need to look for areas of the property that are particularly dark so that you’ll get the most benefit.
Too Little Lighting
Having too little lighting in your yard won’t achieve your objectives. According to Forbes, lighting at the front entry should be between 1,000 and 2,000 lumens, and 300 lumens is recommended for pathways. If you’re working on a budget, you might be tempted to go too small or too dim in hopes of staying on budget. You obviously want to keep an eye on how much you’re spending, but you also want to make sure you’re using your money wisely on a good investment and that means quality lighting which often costs a little more.
Too Much Lighting
On the other hand you also want to make sure you’re not going with too much lighting either. You want lighting choices that are adequate and achieve your purposes. If you want to light up a walkway or a porch or front area you need just enough. Too much will be overpowering and unattractive.
These are a few mistakes to avoid when installing outdoor lighting. If you’re interested in viewing our lighting fixture inventory, please stop by to see up soon.
Posted 4/29/24
