Landscape Lighting Supply: What to Look for
Landscape lighting supply gives you a variety of ways to make your outdoor space more beautiful and functional. There are many aspects of a landscape lighting system to consider, but the following factors should be considered first and foremost before making any decisions.
- Light fixture placement
When it comes to outdoor lighting, you typically have two options: floodlights and spotlights. Spotlights are more effective for highlighting specific features, like trees or garden sculptures. While floodlights produce a wider beam that is great for illuminating larger areas of your yard at once, such as the front porch or garden path. You also need to consider how far away you’ll be placing the light fixtures from what they’re illuminating.
- Type of fixture
Landscape lighting fixtures come in a wide range of styles, colors, and shapes. The first thing to consider when choosing fixtures is the type of installation you’ll be performing—fixtures designed for exterior wall mounting give off diffused light that comes from above; those designed for ground-level installation generally produce more intense beams of light that are better used as direct lightings such as path or stairway markers; and free-standing models can provide up-lighting which provides both pathway and ambient lighting at once. When installing lights around trees, ensure they’re high enough off the ground so they don’t burn out the leaves.
- Maintenance
Harsh weather conditions, as well as heat and cold temperatures, can take a toll on any type of landscape lighting system. For this reason, it’s better to install an exterior fixture that is rated for outdoor use. Such fixtures are more durable and efficient at resisting environmental factors such as moisture and frost build-up, which can shorten a light’s lifespan considerably.
- Material considerations
If you’re looking for lighting solutions that can withstand changes in temperature, there are several materials available to make sure your lights will last in any climate. Aluminum is lightweight and rust-resistant, which makes it ideal for creating all types of exterior fixtures. Powder-coated metal or plastic can also ensure your lights remain intact through large temperature swings, but these materials are usually thicker than aluminum because they’re not as strong.
The different materials used in outdoor light fixtures
When it comes to landscape lighting, there are a variety of materials that can be used in the construction of outdoor light fixtures. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
Aluminum is a popular choice for landscape lighting because it is lightweight and rust-resistant. This makes it ideal for creating fixtures that will be exposed to the elements. Aluminum is also a good choice for areas with large temperature swings, as it is not as affected by changes in temperature as some other materials.
Powder-coated metal or plastic is another option for outdoor lighting fixtures, as it is resistant to moisture and frost build-up. However, these materials are usually thicker than aluminum because they are not as strong.
One of the biggest benefits of landscape lighting is that it can dramatically improve a space’s functionality and safety by allowing you to see key areas at night. All types of outdoor lighting fixtures should be easy to install and operate—a motion sensor switch allows you to conveniently turn your lights on automatically when people or animals pass, while a photocell will allow your light fixtures to turn on at dusk and off again once it gets dark. Additionally, dusk-to-dawn sensors can help ensure your light fixture will remain operational throughout the entire night without needing to be adjusted frequently. Another feature worth considering is adjustable beam direction (lens rotates)—this type of fixture can emit light in all directions, allowing you to have a well-lit space even in areas where there is no central fixture.
In conclusion:
Nighttime outdoor living doesn’t have to mean sacrificing safety and functionality. With key factors such as lumens, materials, installation ease and customer support taken into consideration before construction begins, a landscaping lighting system will keep your outdoor living space well-lit and inviting.
