Choose The Outdoor Lighting Fixtures Right For Your Outdoors

Outdoor lighting fixtures should be considered in your outdoors' design and layout. The types of fixtures you choose will heavily determine the finished look of your outdoor lighting design.

By now you should have some idea of the type of lighting design you have in mind.

If you haven't planned your outdoor lighting design, click here and get some insight on what you need to do first.

If you still have no clue what your looking for, no worries, keep reading and grab a handful of ideas.

Things You Need To Know Before Deciding On Your Outdoor Lighting Fixtures

These are a few things you will want to consider before choosing an outdoor lighting fixture.

Examine Your Outdoors' Surroundings

Look around and get an idea of the style of architecture you will be complimenting. Is it a modern look you want to emulate? Maybe its a contemporary look you want. Either way, get a basic idea of what you like and what fits your outdoor scheme best.

Sizing Up Your Fixtures

The size of the lighting fixture depends on the location of the fixture and what size lamp you will be using. Your main entrance may require large wall sconces in order to welcome your guests into your home. However, you may feel that your deck may be better suited with smaller fixtures.

Determining the size of the fixture will be based on your own observations. Before making a final decision on size, trace out a template of the fixture's base and tape it into position to give you an idea of the size of the fixture in relation to it's surroundings.

Wattage & Light Output

Remember to always use the manufacturer's recommendation of wattage for a particular fixture. You don't want to have a situation where the higher wattage lamp causes the lens to warp or melt. This will compromise the fixture's protection of the lamp and diminish the quality of light it should produce.

You want to be considerate of light output especially if there will be a lot of traffic in the outdoor space you wish to light. The fixtures you choose should provide enough light, you don't want to blind people. Consider using low voltage lighting in high traffic areas.

Weather Proof Fixtures

A waterproof seal is extremely important in outdoor lighting fixtures. Its always best to try and position the fixture in a location thats away from water, such as under an overhang.

For those of us without that luxury, no sweat. The manufacturers make lighting fixtures designed to prevent water from getting inside.

Some fixtures have drainage ports built into the lamp's housing while others are completely sealed. Check the fixture's drainage to see if it will accommodate your needs. Those ports should be clear and unobstructed.

If its a sealed fixture, make sure to check with the manufacturer to see the maximum lamp wattage that the fixture can withstand without damage. This will prevent the fixture from overheating and causing a fire.

Test Your Soil

If installing outdoor recessed lighting it's important to take your soil type seriously. Have your soil tested to see the amount of clay, silt, and sand present as well as any other chemicals that will compromise the strength and durability of the recessed lighting fixture.

Doing so will allow you to choose the fixture best fitted to withstand corrosion from your soil. This can save you lots of money and aggravation.

8 Kinds Of Outdoor Lighting Fixtures Available For The Picking

Ready to shop? Got your list of ideas? Shopping for outdoor lighting fixtures can be a lot of fun or a pain in the you know what.

Lets make it easier by discussing some of the different types of fixtures available to you.

• Welcome guests by using outdoor step lighting all while providing safety and helping to avoid unnecessary accidents.

• Draw attention to your home using outdoor path lighting

• Safety and beauty connect in a commercial environment with outdoor bollard lighting. Their strength and durability are second to none.

• Create cool effects with outdoor wall lighting.

• Outdoor recessed lighting will keep your lighting hidden and give your outdoors a clean finished look.

• Enjoy the calming effects of a beautifully lit pool with underwater lighting fixtures.

• Enrich your outdoor environment with elegant outdoor post lighting.

• Energy efficient outdoor fluorescent lighting is a great alternative to traditional style lamps.

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