An outdoor light is a great way to make your home more welcoming and safer at night. You can also use it to highlight features of your garden, such as a tree or shrub. If you want to create a more dramatic effect, consider using spotlights. You can install these in a line across your yard, or you can focus them on a single feature.
When choosing a light, it’s important to consider the style of your house and the size of the area you’re lighting. For example, a contemporary style may look good on a wall mount but it might be cartoonish on a pole post. Likewise, traditional styles work well on both wall mounts and pole posts.
You should always buy a bulb that’s rated for outdoor use, as it’ll be exposed to the elements. Bulbs that aren’t rated for outdoor use can crack or break in the rain and won’t last as long.
While you’re shopping for bulbs, it’s best to compare lumens instead of watts. The higher the lumen rating, the brighter the light will be.
When selecting fixtures, it’s a good idea to think about the future. For instance, a newly planted tree might not need a light now but you should put one in to save yourself some work later. You should also consider whether you’ll need to move or replace the fixture in the future. This will help you plan your budget accordingly. If possible, avoid iron fixtures as they will rust in the rain. Instead, choose ones made from brass or copper that will develop a nice patina over time.