Tracy If you’re looking to add some outdoor lighting to your property, you’ll want to choose fixtures that complement your home’s style and landscaping.
You’ll also need to choose weather-resistant fixtures that will withstand the elements. To do this, check the UL rating of the institution and the material it’s made from.
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Style
There are a variety of outdoor lighting fixtures available that you can use to enhance your home. These can increase curb appeal, boost safety and provide a more polished look to your yard.
The style of the building that your home is built in and its surrounding area can help you determine what kind of outdoor lighting Tampa will match best. For example, ornate outdoor lighting might fit well if the building has a European style with fancy scrollwork and fluid details.
Fixtures come in various styles, including floodlights, hanging, and ceiling lights. The size and placement of each will depend on your needs and budget.
Material
When choosing outdoor lighting fixtures, you must consider the material used. Some materials are proven to withstand the environmental demands better than others.
Brass is a good option for outdoor lighting because it’s a hard metal that will hold up in any weather conditions. It also will “patina” over time, giving it a desirable aged look ideal for a coastal home.
Copper is another excellent choice for landscape lights because it doesn’t rust or bend when subjected to the elements. However, it does oxidize over time and will eventually need to be replaced.
Stainless steel is also a popular option because it’s a durable metal that reflects the sun’s rays. It also corrodes less than other alloys, but it does require polishing regularly to keep its shine and protect it from corrosion.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is one of the most crucial considerations when selecting outdoor lighting equipment. Using less energy reduces the money you spend on electricity and lowers environmental pollution.
Energy-efficient lighting is available in a wide range of styles. Many of these fixtures use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce brighter, whiter, more natural-looking lights.
LED bulbs also last longer and stay more relaxed, which helps decrease fire risk. They use 50-80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and offer a warm or cool color temperature.
In addition to reducing your energy costs, upgrading to LEDs and CFLs can help to protect the environment by avoiding greenhouse gas emissions. It’s also a good idea to include motion and photoelectric sensors in your outdoor lighting fixtures so they switch on and off at the correct times.
Durability
Outdoor lighting fixtures need to be durable and withstand the ravages of nature. They also have to stand up to lawnmowers and other manufactured hazards.
The materials used to make the fixtures can affect their durability. For instance, brass is an excellent metal that can last for years.
Stainless steel is also a good choice, but it must be regularly cleaned to keep it looking new and prevent corrosion. It can also develop a patina over time, which can change the appearance of the fixture.
Plastic is another material that is popular among many homeowners and landscapers. It is inexpensive and practically wholly moldable.
Safety
A well-lit yard looks beautiful, enhances home security, and helps protect your family from accidents. A lighting designer explains that outdoor lights can illuminate walkways and entrances, help residents navigate the yard safely, and highlight specific areas.
Use energy-efficient LEDs instead of traditional incandescent bulbs to keep your outdoor lighting safe. Change the bulbs on all your fixtures annually to ensure a bright and even light.
When choosing a new fixture, ensure it’s rated for outdoor use. Look for an IP (ingress protection) rating that indicates how well light can withstand water or solids such as dust, says Hines.
