
Enhance Your Home with
Outdoor Lighting
Expert Advice & Tips
Think of outdoor lighting as the jewelry that accessorizes your home—it highlights your property’s best features and ensures everyone feels welcome and secure. But how do you choose the perfect lighting for your needs? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to buy outdoor lighting that fits your style and budget. With the right information, you can make informed decisions and create a beautifully lit outdoor space.
Why Outdoor Lighting Matters
Imagine coming home after a long day and being greeted by a dark, uninviting entryway. Or hosting a backyard barbecue where guests stumble around because they can't see. Outdoor lighting not only improves the aesthetics of your home but also enhances safety and security. It ensures that pathways are visible, deters potential intruders, and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for guests.
Think of outdoor lighting as the jewelry that accessorizes your home—it highlights your property’s best features and ensures everyone feels welcome and secure. The right lighting can transform a dull, dark yard into a vibrant, welcoming space. With the right lighting, you can showcase your garden, illuminate your pathways, and make your home feel safer and more inviting.
Types of Outdoor Lighting
Pathway lights are essential for guiding people along walkways and driveways. These lights not only prevent accidents but also add a charming touch to your landscaping. They come in various styles and designs, allowing you to choose the perfect look for your home. Whether you prefer modern, sleek designs or more traditional, decorative options, there's a pathway light that suits your taste.
Outdoor wall lights are perfect for illuminating entryways, patios, and other outdoor living areas. They come in a variety of styles, from sleek modern designs to classic lantern looks. Wall lights not only provide necessary illumination but also enhance the architectural features of your home. By choosing the right wall lights, you can create a welcoming and stylish entryway that sets the tone for your entire home.
For a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere, string lights are an excellent choice. They're perfect for decorating patios, pergolas, and trees, creating a cozy and inviting environment. String lights come in various styles, from delicate fairy lights to larger, more robust bulbs. They add a whimsical touch to any outdoor space, making them ideal for parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying a quiet evening under the stars.
Solar lights are an eco-friendly option that saves on electricity costs. They charge during the day and automatically turn on at night, providing a hassle-free lighting solution. Solar lights are available in many styles, including pathway lights, wall lights, and decorative accent lights. By using solar lights, you can reduce your energy consumption and enjoy beautiful, sustainable outdoor lighting.
Consider Your Purpose: Before purchasing outdoor lighting, think about what you want to achieve. Do you need bright lights for security? Soft lights for ambiance? Functional lights for pathways? Identifying your primary goal will help narrow down your options. Knowing your purpose ensures that you choose lights that meet your specific needs and enhance your outdoor space effectively.
Match Your Style: Outdoor lighting should complement your home's exterior. If you have a modern home, opt for sleek, minimalist designs. For a more traditional look, classic lanterns or rustic fixtures may be more appropriate. Matching your lighting to your home's style creates a cohesive and harmonious appearance. It also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your property, making it more attractive and inviting.
Check for Durability: Outdoor lights need to withstand the elements, so durability is key. Look for weather-resistant materials like stainless steel, aluminum, or durable plastic. Check the IP (Ingress Protection) rating to ensure the lights are suitable for outdoor use. Durable lights last longer and require less maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run. By choosing high-quality, weather-resistant lights, you can enjoy reliable illumination year-round.
Energy Efficiency: Consider energy-efficient options like LED or solar lights. LEDs use less electricity and last longer than traditional bulbs, while solar lights harness the power of the sun, reducing your energy bills. Energy-efficient lighting not only helps the environment but also saves you money on your electricity bills. By investing in energy-efficient lights, you can enjoy beautiful outdoor lighting without worrying about high energy costs.
Installation & Maintenance: Some outdoor lights are easier to install than others. Solar lights, for instance, don't require wiring, making installation a breeze. However, they may need more frequent maintenance to keep the solar panels clean. Hardwired lights require professional installation but often provide more reliable illumination. Consider the installation and maintenance requirements when choosing your lights. Easy-to-install lights save you time and hassle, while professional installation ensures optimal performance and safety.
How to Choose the Right Size and Placement for Outdoor Wall Lighting
To choose the right size light fixture for your door, follow these simple steps:
- Measure the height of your door in inches.
- For a standard-sized light fixture, multiply the door height by 0.25.
- For an oversized light fixture, multiply the door height by 0.33.
- For installation, the center of the light fixture should be positioned 66 inches from the floor.
This will ensure that your outdoor wall light is the right size and placed at the ideal height for maximum effect.

Lighting Placement Tips

- Entryways & Porches: Illuminate your front door, back door, and any side entrances. This not only enhances security but also creates a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Proper lighting in entryways makes it easier to see keys, locks, and steps. It also makes your home look more inviting and safe. By placing lights near your entryways, you ensure that these areas are well-lit and accessible.
- Pathways & Driveways: Place lights along pathways and driveways to guide the way and prevent accidents. Make sure the lights are spaced evenly and provide enough illumination. Pathway and driveway lights make it easier to navigate your property, especially at night. They also enhance the beauty of your landscaping, creating a well-lit, attractive exterior. By lighting these areas, you improve safety and aesthetics.
- Gardens & Landscaping: Highlight your garden’s best features with well-placed lights. Use spotlights to showcase trees, shrubs, or garden sculptures. Garden lighting adds depth and dimension to your outdoor space. It highlights the beauty of your plants and creates a magical atmosphere. By strategically placing lights in your garden, you can create a stunning visual effect that enhances the natural beauty of your landscape.
- Patios & Decks: Create a cozy outdoor living area with ambient lighting. String lights, lanterns, and wall lights can transform your patio or deck into a relaxing retreat. Ambient lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for entertaining or unwinding after a long day. By lighting your patio or deck, you create an outdoor space that feels comfortable and welcoming. It also extends your living area, making it usable even after the sun goes down.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Lighting
To ensure your outdoor lights last as long as possible, regular maintenance is essential. Clean the fixtures regularly to remove dirt and debris. Check for any damaged or burnt-out bulbs and replace them promptly. For solar lights, ensure the panels are clean and positioned to receive maximum sunlight. Regular maintenance ensures that your lights continue to function properly and look their best. By taking care of your outdoor lighting, you can enjoy beautiful, reliable illumination for years to come.
Buying Tips
At Lighting New York, we want to ensure you have the best experience when purchasing outdoor lighting. Here are some quick tips to guarantee a seamless purchase:
- Reputable Retailer: Always research the retailer(s) you're considering purchasing from.
- Lighting New York is nationally recognized for their outstanding customer service, with industry certified Lighting Experts available seven days a week to assist you every step of the way. Backed by an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, we are also trusted Google Partner.
- Read Reviews: Reviews are a great tool to find out firsthand the experience customers, like you, have had with a product and/or company.
- Lighting New York has over 60,000 verified 5-star customer reviews!
- Return Policy: No one should fear returning a product if they are unsatisfied.
- At Lighting New York, we offer 60-day risk-free returns and no restocking fees.
- Price Guarantee: At Lighting New York, you'll never overpay for your purchase. We offer our 150% Lowest Price Guarantee; if you find a lower advertised price elsewhere on the same item, we'll gladly meet that price and beat it with an additional 50% difference!
Choosing the right outdoor lighting can transform your home's exterior, enhancing its beauty, safety, and functionality. By considering your needs, style, and the durability of the lights, you can find the perfect lighting solutions for your outdoor spaces. Remember to maintain your lights regularly to ensure they continue to shine brightly and serve their purpose for years to come. Happy lighting!
FAQs
Q: What are the best types of outdoor lights for security?
A: Flood lights and motion sensor lights are the best options for security. They provide bright, wide-angle illumination and deter potential intruders. These lights cover large areas and can be motion-activated, providing an extra layer of security. By using flood and motion sensor lights, you can enhance the safety and security of your home.
Q: How do I choose the right brightness for my outdoor lights?
A: LED bulbs are ideal for home offices. They are energy-efficient, have a long lifespan, and come in various color temperatures to suit different needs.
Q: How can I maximize natural light in my home office?
A: The brightness of outdoor lights is measured in lumens. For pathways and garden beds, 100-200 lumens is sufficient. For security lights, opt for 700-1300 lumens. The right brightness ensures that your lights provide adequate illumination without being too harsh or glaring. By choosing the appropriate lumens, you can create the perfect lighting for each area of your outdoor space.
Q: Can I use smart lighting in my home office?
A: Yes, smart lighting is a great option. You can adjust the brightness and color temperature to suit different times of the day, enhancing comfort and productivity.
Q: Can I install outdoor lights myself?
A: Yes, many outdoor lights, especially solar and battery-powered options, can be installed by homeowners. However, hardwired lights may require professional installation for safety and compliance with local electrical codes. DIY installation is convenient and cost-effective, but professional installation ensures that your lights are installed correctly and safely. By considering your installation options, you can choose the best method for your needs.
Q: How do I maintain my solar lights?
A: Keep the solar panels clean and free of debris. Replace rechargeable batteries as needed and ensure the lights are positioned to receive adequate sunlight. Regular maintenance keeps your solar lights functioning properly and efficiently. By taking care of your solar lights, you can enjoy sustainable, hassle-free outdoor lighting.
Q: Are LED lights a good choice for outdoor lighting?
A: Yes, LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and durable, making them an excellent choice for outdoor lighting. They use less electricity than traditional bulbs and have a longer lifespan. By using LED lights, you can reduce your energy consumption and enjoy bright, reliable illumination. LED lights are also available in various styles and colors, allowing you to create the perfect ambiance for your outdoor space.