3 Things to Remember When Installing Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor spaces can be hard to enjoy at night if they do not have the proper lighting. At the same time, installing lighting without a full plan can result in dangerous areas and nuisances inside the home as well as for neighbors. There are many other challenges as well, such as outlet availability and loose wires.
For tricky projects, you might need special considerations and creative solutions for poorly lit areas. Let’s discuss what you can do to ensure proper lighting.
Related Article: Lighting Up Your Deck and Outdoor Living Space
Install Lights In Strategic Places
Depending on the size of your space, you will have different lighting needs. Smaller spaces or less trafficked areas can use simpler and less expensive strategies and design. Simple outdoor string lights can bring a soft glow to any outdoor space. These inexpensive lights simply need an outlet and some posts, a pergola, or a few trees to hang from. Some homeowners string these lights above their decks or patios to create a low-light ambiance for relaxation.
Uplighting can highlight architectural features and trees dramatically as well and easily get installed in the ground or mounted. If you’ve been updating your siding, creating a new entryway, or adding some accessories like trim to your home, uplighting can make these additions even more stunning.
More elaborate outdoor areas may require complicated lighting design plans. Multi-level decks, for example, may require extensive lighting to ensure safely lit areas. For example, the lower deck space may need overhead lighting so it can be enjoyed at night. For staircases, safety often requires small lights to illuminate the steps as well. In addition, you may want to add more elaborate lighting on the upper deck, such as an outdoor chandelier or ceiling lights, accompanied by table lamps or torch lights.
When it comes to the brightness of your lights and the direction they are pointed in, you’ll want to be extra careful. Most neighborhoods are restricted by local regulations to avoid lighting nuisances. For example, you won’t be able to have any lights that point towards other peoples’ properties.
Related Article: Deck Designs: Platform and Raised Decks
Plan Beforehand How You’ll Conceal Wiring
Different lighting strategies and designs require varied amounts of voltage and electrical consumption. Simple overhead lights often only have one outlet or plug per string of lights and only require access to one electrical source. In other words, you will only have to worry about one wire to keep out of the way or laying flat on the ground. Make sure this one wire is not laying anywhere that creates a tripping hazard, such as by a walking path or staircase.
If you have a more complex lighting design, you’ll need to have a plan for tidying up and hiding all the wiring. Make sure to discuss your options with your contractor to ensure your space is wire-free.
Avoid Water Lines, Sprinklers, and Voltage Issues
There are other safety considerations for planning your lighting designs that go beyond trip hazards. It is crucial to understand the voltage of your lighting and how you will accommodate these needs properly. You will not want to create any issues with the power to your home. An experienced contractor will have ideas for how to set up outdoor lighting properly.
Also, make sure your outdoor electrical systems do not interfere with any of your water lines or sprinkler systems. Mixing these two systems can cause damage to your home and injury to you or a family member or friend. Ensure you know where all underground lines and utilities are before you dig anywhere or stick anything into the ground.
Contact Advance Inc. to Discuss Your Lighting Needs!
No matter what your outdoor space looks like, having lighting will always add a welcoming glow to the space and allow extended use into the night. While these lighted spaces are warm and welcoming, calling a professional to discuss your backyard designs will ensure they are safe as well.
Contact your Advance contractor today to discuss how to bring extra light to your outdoor space!