When it’s time to spruce up the look of your yard, outdoor lighting can really make a difference.
There are many types, styles, and colors to choose from.
Whether you are looking to accentuate a walkway or a flower bed you will find many options available.
However, it can be very confusing to determine which types and styles will work best for your yard. Consider the following tips and techniques when you want to light up your landscape design.
Design Your Layout First
The first step in selecting the appropriate lighting for your landscape is creating a layout. This isn’t as hard as it may seem. Start with a basic design of your yard or properties, making sure you include any walkways or outdoor living areas.
Next, you need to decide which areas you want to light up. In most cases you will want to light up walkways for safety, and living areas so that they can be enjoyed at night.
You may also want to accentuate things such as waterfalls, flower beds, or sculptures in your yard. Once you have decided which areas should be lit, you can move on to picking the best design.
Stay with Your Current Theme
When choosing the appropriate fixtures for your outdoor lighting needs you will want to think about the theme or style of your home. If you use wrought iron for your gate and fencing you’ll want to choose lighting fixtures that match.
In this case plastic lights or colored lights may not be appropriate. However, if your home is of a more modern design you may want lighting fixtures stand out.
Any fixtures you choose should match to the appearance of your home. However, the fixtures should not take away from the natural appeal under home. Don’t overdo it!
Consider Cost
When choosing the best outdoor lighting fixtures for your home you will want to consider price. First, your lighting fixtures should never cost more than the objects they are accentuating.
Second, you have to think about the home energy efficiency of any lights you choose. In this aspect you will want to select lower voltage lighting fixture. Lower voltage lighting fixtures are much cheaper to power and install.
They are also much safer in the event that a storm or accident should damage the product. Lower voltage fixtures are also much easier to place sense wires and cords can be buried a few inches below the surface of the ground.
As you can see there are many options to consider, when selecting the appropriate lighting fixtures for your landscape or yard. However, if you take the time to develop a plan and decide what is best beforehand the process will be much smoother.
Trying to buy and install one light at a time can end up costing you a time and money, as you try to find matching fixtures and reroute power supplies. If in doubt you may want to seek the help of a professional landscape company.
