Creating an outdoor lighting plan can be a grueling task, especially if you have no knowledge of exterior design and landscaping. However, it does not mean that it is impossible! Even if you have no prior experience, with some research and guidance on dos and don’ts, you can craft a spectacular outdoor lighting setup that will be the envy of the neighborhood. Before starting your exterior makeover, let’s go over these common outdoor lighting mistakes.
Not Having a Lighting Plan
Without a proper plan, your lights may be chaotic. You may also go over your budget, install mismatched light fixtures, run out of materials, and/or end up with a puzzling mess. No matter the type of lighting plan, having a blueprint will guide you through the process and assure you that you’re going in the right direction.
Look at your space and note the areas that need illumination and those that only need soft lights. From there, create a plan you can complete in stages. This can include electrical diagrams, the light elements you will need, and the positioning of the fittings.
Choosing the Wrong Location
Choosing the proper location for each lighting fixture is a crucial part of the planning process. Some light fixtures make a statement in daylight hours but blend into the background at night. If a light is too close to a seating area, it can shine too bright and create a glare.
Consider location when planning your outdoor lighting operation, and consider what fixtures might go where before buying them. Consider how the light looks from your street or the backyard. Essential outdoor lighting areas could include paths, entries, driveways, steps, and patios.
Adding Really Bright Lights
Outdoor lighting helps prevent potential intruders from breaking into your property. However, turning up your fixtures to full brightness is not the best move. At night, you only need subtle brightness to protect your property and beautify your home. If security is your main concern, add motion sensors to your lights and install them around your driveway or walkway. You do not want to create light that will blind drivers or send unwanted illumination into your neighbors’ windows.
Questions? Lehnhoff’s Supply is Here to Help
If you still have more questions about outdoor lighting, the trained professionals at Lehnhoff’s Supply are here to help you.
Find us at 2708 Belair Road, Fallston, MD 21047 and give us a call at 410-510-7646. For tips, tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Facebook, X – Twitter, and Pinterest!
We serve but aren’t limited to, the following parts of Maryland: Harford County – Fallston, Forest Hill, Joppa, Edgewood, Bel Air, Churchville, Havre de Grace, Jarrettsville, Street, Aberdeen, Abingdon, and Joppatowne. In Baltimore County: Kingsville, Perry Hall, Overlea, Fullerton, Nottingham, Parkville, Towson, Carney, Loch Raven, Lutherville, Timonium, Hunt Valley, Cockeysville, Sparks, Glyndon, Pikesville, Reisterstown, Ruxton, Parkton, Glen Arm, Baldwin, Monkton, Long Green, White Marsh, Rosedale, Phoenix, and Fork.