Outdoor lighting can turn a boring deck into a stylish nighttime retreat, a front porch into a grand entrance, and a backyard into a veritable paradise. Such is the power of a well placed light source. Along with the beauty aspect, a good lighting plan can increase the functionality of your outdoor spaces, giving you twice as many hours of use each day, not to mention a perfect place to entertain your guests through those gorgeous summer nights.
But as anyone who’s ever even thought about starting an outdoor lighting project will tell you, there are a lot of options out there. You might decide to go with quick DIY lighting, a movable option for the warmer months, or a more permanent installation. Whichever way you choose, here are some handy outdoor lighting ideas you should know before you begin.
Uplights
Uplighting is a subtle way to create the illusion of space in your outdoor deck. By illuminating upwards, this outdoor deck lighting option accents several points in your area, without revealing too much about the actual space. You can even choose different colored lights for a creative and eye-popping attraction your guests will love.
Wall Lights
Built-in wall lights are a permanent fixture you can install on the outside of your house. They can face upwards or downwards, and usually require a skilled contractor to install. If you do decide on these outdoor lights, be sure to tell your contractor you want illumination on all potential tripping hazards, like low walls or stair risers. Wall lights are a great idea for an outdoor lighting scheme you can enjoy for years to come, just make sure you choose a style that you can live with for a long time.
Solar
Outdoor solar lighting is an easy DIY method of installing lights on your backyard features. Created with an ingenious design, solar lights absorb energy from the sun throughout the day, which charges their batteries and releases that energy at night. This backyard lighting option is an easy way to light up trees, stairs, rocks – any attractive areas you’d like to draw attention to. Just stick them in the ground and you’re good to go.
String Lighting
This movable, hanging light option is perfect if you live in a condo or apartment, or if you simply want to change up your outdoor lighting scheme from time to time. String lights give an ethereal quality to your outdoor spaces, and if you don’t mind doing some of the hanging yourself, are a great option for decks large or small.
Stair Lighting
Installing embedded lights in your stairs is an excellent and safe idea for anyone with a deck. Not only does it give your deck stairs a subtle beauty, but it also protects you, your family and your guests when walking down them at night. It is much easier to install stair lighting as you are building your deck, than it is with a pre-existing deck, so make sure you take this into account when planning your deck construction.
Whether you’re starting your outdoor deck from scratch or just giving it an upgrade, the right lighting can make all the difference. To keep your deck looking its best so your lighting can really show it off, you’ll also need the proper protection. Without waterproofing, your prized deck could quickly deteriorate as a result of the rain, sun, or general wear and tear. If you are planning on a new deck construction, or even a deck renovation, go with the experts at WICR. With over 40 years of experience, WICR’s certified deck experts.
