Brighten Up Your Yard: 10 Tips to Choose the Right Landscape Lights

Are you looking for great landscape lights to brighten your outdoor spaces but can't find good options? Then, let us help you with that. Your outdoor spaces are as important as your indoors because they are the first thing people see when they enter your home. This is why keeping them upgraded, cleaned, and well-lit is crucial.

Proper lighting is very important to increase safety and highlight the features of your landscapes. However, given the choices available in the market, choosing the right landscape lights can be pretty challenging. This is where Billy.com comes in; we are a team of professionals who work closely with industry experts to stay updated on leading market trends.

This blog will update you on Brighten Up Your Yard: 10 Tips to Choose the Right Landscape Lights. Learn about the best landscaping tips and tricks and get guidance for choosing formal or informal Landscape Styles.

6 Trending Styles of Landscape Lighting

Landscape or garden lights are designed to illuminate the outdoors. They can be installed in residential or commercial properties, gardens, tree bases, or behind shrubs. This lighting highlights places' features, increases safety, and enhances nighttime ambiance.

It showcases architectural features and landscaping elements while illuminating walkways and steps to prevent accidents, creating a visually appealing atmosphere. We want you to know about their different types before you learn how to choose the right landscape light.

This is why we have provided you with the seven most popular styles of landscape lights to install in your garden. Also, check out our guide on common landscaping mistakes to make your home exterior more visually appealing.

Here is the list of styles of landscape lighting to help you make a better decision for your gardens:

1. Spotlights

This is one of the most basic types of landscape lighting available. Spotlights are beams of illumination that focus on a small area or object, typically from a distance. Recently, they have become one of the most popular trends in outdoor lighting because they make large spaces look gorgeous.

The ambiance they create leaves a lasting impression on your guests. These strong lights can cover your lounges, gardens, and yards while providing bright, wide-spread light perfect for lighting indoor and outdoor spaces.

You can put a spotlight anywhere, from pathways to entryways, to cover dark spots around your home exterior. Spotlights are perfect for enhancing visibility and improving safety outdoors. With spotlights, you don't have to worry about break-ins in the dark, as they can keep intruders away from your home.

2. Inground Light

Other popular options for home lighting are in-ground or well-lights. These lights are installed on concrete walls or floors and are usually used to improve lighting in pathways or driveways. They are a popular choice for interior designers in residential and commercial spaces to create soft background lighting. They can create a warm night atmosphere and enhance outdoor aesthetics, safety, and functionality.

You can install them in various landscaping elements with minimal visibility, such as trees, bushes, and fountains. In-ground lights are the right choice if you want a hidden view of the landscape design without paying attention to the fixture. These low-profile well lights can add dramatic lighting for public or private spaces.

3. Outdoor Post Lights

Post-lights are among the most popular styles and some of the best outdoor lighting solutions. These lights are commonly installed on poles along roads, paths, or parks. They are also trending for residential, commercial, and educational properties. This lighting option is available in various styles at low prices.

Create a street lighting illusion to improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians. Identifying potential hazards will help them navigate the streets better and avoid accidents, injuries, and property damage.

4. Path Lighting

This is the fourth on our list, but it is one of the best lighting solutions for increasing curb appeal. This lighting option can be used for multiple purposes in your outdoor landscape. They make your lawns, gardens, and curbs safer by illuminating potential hazards and guiding visitors along walkways. Path lights are well-designed path lighting that can create a warm and inviting ambiance.

5. Deck and Step Lights

This is the most elegant lighting option available for your home exteriors. They can efficiently provide various benefits, such as decorative lighting for your outdoor spaces. You buy decks and paths in different mounts, finishes, and styles to match your home exterior perfectly.

Our outdoors are usually shaded and dime-lit because of the other plants, trees, and fixtures. These lights enlighten each step, ensuring maximum visibility and reducing the risk of tripping, missteps, or falls.

6. Underwater Lights

If you want to make your outdoor more effective and unique, add an underwater light. These lights come in various types and are designed to fulfill specific lighting requirements. Also, they create distinct visual effects for each outdoor.

These lights are installed directly onto the surface of the water feature, illuminating the water from above. You can install LED landscape lighting in your ponds, fountains, swimming pools, and waterfalls to make your outdoor look like a background from a fairy tale.

Top 10 Tricks to Pick the Right Landscape Lights

Now that you know all the trending landscape lighting options, it is time to learn some tricks for picking the right ones. For more convenience, explore our low-maintenance landscaping ideas for rental properties.

Here are the ten tips that will help you choose the perfect landscape light for your outdoors:

Know Your Backyard Needs: Assessing your needs is important before starting your outdoor lighting project in your lawn, garden, or backyard. Identify the specific areas in your outdoor space that require lighting, such as pathways, trees, water features, and patios. Evaluate these areas' visibility and lighting requirements to make informed decisions when choosing the right landscape lights. Awareness of your landscape lighting needs allows you to select the most cost-efficient choice.
Consider the Purpose of Lighting: It's important to understand the purpose of your landscape lighting before choosing the right one. Each home exterior has unique features and specific landscape lighting requirements. You should be clear on why you need outdoor lighting. People typically install landscape lights for security, ambiance, accent lighting, or to create a warm aesthetic. Different types of lights serve different purposes; for example, pathway lights are the best option for making your walkways safer, and deck lights are a better option for preventing tripping.
Try Different Landscape Lighting Styles: Choosing the right landscape lighting is essential for your garden. Popular options include spotlights, path lights, and floodlights. Ensure your lighting complements your outdoor space, like using LED lights near artificial plants. If your yard has many plants, opt for low-voltage lights to reduce heat and energy use.
Consider Energy-Efficient Lights: If you want a durable, long-lasting, sustainable lighting solution for your landscape, try installing energy-saving light bulbs. Many energy-efficient and eco-friendly lighting solutions, including LED and solar-powered lights, are available on the market. An energy-saving bulb can last up to 12 times longer than traditional bulbs. These lighting options use less electricity to emit the same amount of light as a conventional bulb. An energy-efficient option can have many benefits, such as a reduced carbon footprint, cost savings, and environmental impact.
Think about Outdoor Layouts: When installing landscape lighting, prioritize your outdoor layout. Look closely at your lawns and garden layout to design a well-balanced and visually pleasing outdoor area. Consider assessing the exterior features you wish to emphasize, such as trees, statues, or architectural elements. Choose from a variety of lighting options to accentuate your fixtures. Additionally, it's important to assess the lighting in your pathways and walkways to ensure they are well-lit for the safety of your guests. Consider installing a deck or stoplight to provide guidance and prevent accidents.
Durability and Weather Resistance: When selecting exterior lighting, consider its durability and weather resistance. Ensure that the fixtures you select have a long lifespan. Choosing lighting fixtures made from durable materials like stainless steel, brass, or copper can help extend their lifespan. These materials are designed to withstand rust and corrosion, guaranteeing durability even in challenging weather conditions.
Choose Smart Lighting: if you already enjoy a landscape lighting system but wish it could be automated. This is another excellent choice when selecting the appropriate lighting solution. Smart lighting options offer a range of advantages, including the ability to control your lights remotely, set schedules, and seamlessly integrate with your home automation system. Additionally, you can schedule your home's exterior lighting to turn on at a specific time or synchronize it with the natural light cycle, allowing you to enjoy the illuminated ambiance effortlessly.
Avoid Lighting Pollution: Manage your home lighting by installing shielded fixtures, turning off unnecessary lights at night, or utilizing motion sensors. Additionally, consider involving your community by advocating for a lighting ordinance that reflects your desired lighting standards. By incorporating dimmers, motion sensors, and timers, you can reduce illumination levels and save energy. Using outdoor lighting fixtures that reduce glare and trespass can effectively combat light pollution.
Explore Budget-friendly Options: Solar-powered lights are a great choice for those looking for a cost-effective option. They eliminate the need for wiring or electricity, which helps to lower installation costs and energy bills. Installing these lights is a breeze. Find a sunny spot, place them there, and let them charge during the day. Then, enjoy the illuminated beauty of your yard at night.
Ask for Professional Help: When selecting landscape lighting, consulting a professional can make a significant difference. While DIY projects can be rewarding, a professional ensures a polished and long-lasting result by designing a custom lighting plan tailored to your needs. Their expertise highlights your yard's best features while addressing specific goals like security, ambiance, or architectural accents. Professionals also help optimize the effectiveness of your lights. For the best deals, request estimates from experts like Billy.com, HireBestPros, and HomeProEstimates.

In Conclusion

Are you considering adding landscape lighting to your outdoor spaces to boost their visual charm? Then, allow us to assist you with that. Outdoor spaces hold just as much significance as indoor areas, as they are the initial impression people have when they enter your home. It is crucial to keep them upgraded, cleaned, and well-lit.

Having adequate lighting is crucial for enhancing safety and drawing attention to the unique aspects of your landscapes. However, with the wide array of options in the market, selecting the appropriate landscape lights can be quite a daunting task.

At Billy.com, we have a dedicated team of professionals who collaborate closely with industry experts to ensure we stay up-to-date on the latest market trends. Contact us today to find and hire landscaping companies and contractors in the area, depending on your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below, we have provided you with the answers to FAQs about choosing the right landscape lights:

Q1. What is the meaning of landscape lighting?

Ans: Outdoor lighting serves multiple purposes, whether in private gardens or public landscapes. It enhances safety, adds to the aesthetics, improves accessibility, provides security, facilitates recreation and sports activities, and creates a welcoming atmosphere for social and event gatherings.

Q2. What is the best type of landscape lighting?

Ans: Flood lights are incredibly effective for illuminating expansive outdoor spaces. These spotlights have a high brightness level and a wide range of coverage. They frequently provide lighting for driveways and patios from an overhead position.

Q3. Why choose landscape lighting?

Ans: Landscape lighting has multiple benefits. It can enhance your outdoor space, boost the attractiveness of your property, showcase its best features, and improve safety. It can also assist in deterring criminals, as you and your neighbors have better visibility of your property at night.

Q4. How do you calculate landscape lighting?

Ans: Calculate each light's total watt rating and multiply it by 1.25. For example, if you have 40 lights rated at 3 Watts each, the calculation would be 3 x 40 = 120. Next, calculate the product of 1.25 and 120, which equals 150 Watts.

Q5. What is the maximum distance for landscape lighting?

Ans: Consider the 100/100 rule: limit the cable length to 100 feet for every 100 watts of light using a 12-gauge cable. Also, remember to utilize a voltmeter to verify the voltage at the fixture. Installing Lights in the Wrong Place—Lawn maintenance can become challenging if landscape lighting fixtures are in the middle of your grass.