Choosing the Right Outdoor Light for Your Home

Outdoor light brings the beauty of your property into focus after dark, making it safe for family fun and relaxation. Lighting also highlights features and accentuates your home’s architecture. Choose from a wide variety of styles and fixture types to create the perfect lighting for your property.

The first step in choosing the right outdoor lights is determining how you’ll use your property. Do you want to highlight plants or trees in your yard for a dramatic look? Or maybe you want to illuminate pathways for safety and convenience. Many cities and homeowners’ associations have regulations on the type and brightness of outdoor lighting, so be sure to check them out.

Consider your budget as well, since some outdoor lighting options are more expensive than others. However, don’t let your budget discourage you from creating a beautiful outdoor space. You can find a variety of affordable options, from low-cost string lights to more elaborate gooseneck garden lights that transform your lawn into a magical wonderland at night.

If your outdoor lighting will be exposed to the elements, look for weatherproof fixtures. Many of them will be made of aluminum, which doesn’t rust and is lightweight, so it won’t damage or dent easily. Plastic is often used in cheaper styles of outdoor lighting, like the solar-powered sets you can pick up on the discount rack at the hardware store.

LED bulbs are usually recommended for outdoor lighting, since they don’t produce as much heat as incandescent bulbs. They also turn on instantly and adjust easily to changing temperatures.