How To Pick Outdoor Lighting - Outdoor Lighting Ideas

How to Pick the Perfect Outdoor Lighting for Your Home

Outdoor lighting can add beauty, safety, and security to your home. But with so many different types of lights available, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing outdoor lighting:

Purpose of the lighting

The first step is to decide what you want your outdoor lighting to do. Do you need it to illuminate a walkway, highlight a landscape feature, or provide security? Once you know the purpose of the lighting, you can start to narrow down your choices.

Type of lighting

There are two main types of outdoor lighting: floodlights and spotlights. Floodlights emit a wide beam of light that can cover a large area, while spotlights emit a narrow beam of light that can be used to highlight a specific feature. Choose the type of lighting that best suits your needs.

Brightness

The brightness of your outdoor lighting is measured in lumens. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light. Choose a brightness that is appropriate for the purpose of the lighting. For example, you will need a brighter light for a walkway than you would for a landscape feature.

Color temperature

The color temperature of your outdoor lighting is measured in Kelvins (K). The higher the Kelvins, the cooler the light. Choose a color temperature that complements the style of your home and the surrounding landscape. For example, a warm color temperature (2700K-3000K) can create a welcoming atmosphere, while a cool color temperature (4000K-5000K) can provide a more modern look.

Style

The style of your outdoor lighting should complement the style of your home. For example, a traditional home might look best with carriage lanterns, while a modern home might look best with sleek, contemporary fixtures.

Energy efficiency

If you are concerned about energy efficiency, choose LED outdoor lighting. LED lights use less energy than traditional incandescent lights and last longer.

Installation

Some outdoor lighting fixtures are easy to install yourself, while others require professional installation. If you are not comfortable installing electrical fixtures, it is best to hire a qualified electrician.