Outdoor lighting can transform a plain yard into an inviting oasis. With the right lighting, you can highlight architectural features, illuminate pathways, showcase plants and trees, and create ambiance for entertaining. Getting it right requires planning and strategic placement, but you don’t need to call an expensive electrician. With some DIY tips, you can install beautiful and functional outdoor lighting yourself.
Assessing Your Outdoor Lighting Needs
The first step is deciding what you want to accomplish. Outdoor lighting serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Consider what areas you want to light and what activities happen there after dark.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself
- What architectural features or plants do I want to highlight? Spotlights on a fountain or up-lighting in trees can create dramatic focal points.
- What spaces need ambient light for safety and visibility? Pathways and stairs need illumination so no one trips.
- Are there areas for entertaining or relaxing? Accent lighting sets the mood.
- Are there potential hazards like steps or changes in elevation? Safety lighting prevents accidents.
- Do I need lighting for security and visibility? Motion sensor lights deter intruders.
- What is the style of my home? Lighting should complement the aesthetic. Rustic homes need different fixtures than modern ones.
Take stock of your current lighting situation. Note areas that are too dark and locations where you want to add or improve lighting. This will help determine how much lighting you need and where it should go.
Outdoor Lighting Techniques
There are several techniques for lighting up your yard:
- Accent - Focused lights on architectural features or plants
- Silhouetting - Backlighting trees or structures to create silhouettes
- Ambient - Overall illumination for visibility and safety
- Pathway - Guiding lights along walkways
- Perimeter - Security lights on edges and perimeters
- Task - Direct lighting for working, cooking, or playing
Outdoor Lighting Sources
Outdoor lighting uses various types and styles of fixtures:
- Bollards - Freestanding fixtures along pathways
- Deck - Built into deck railings and steps
- Path - Low-level lights sunken into the ground to illuminate paths
- Spotlights - Narrow focus beams for highlighting architectural features
- Step - Built into risers to light stairs and steps
- String - Hanging strands of bulb lights
- Underwater - Submerged or floating fixtures for pools and ponds
- Wall sconces - Wall-mounted fixtures, often by doors
- Post - Attached to fence posts or lamp posts
- In-ground - Uplighting placed at the base of trees or structures
Combine different types to achieve both ambient and accent lighting.
Choosing Light Bulbs
Selecting the right bulbs is key to achieving your lighting goals while minimizing energy use. The most common options include:
Incandescent
Incandescent bulbs are inexpensive and easy to find, but they're inefficient and have a shorter lifespan than newer options. They also put out a lot of heat.
Halogen
Halogens are similar to incandescents but more energy efficient. However, they have higher upfront costs.
Fluorescent
Fluorescents last much longer than incandescents and use less energy. But they have a larger profile that won't fit all fixtures. Consider compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs.
LED
LED bulbs are the most energy efficient and longest lasting option. Although more expensive initially, their longevity offsets the higher cost over time. LEDs also remain cool to the touch.
For accent and spot lighting, choose bulbs with a high lumen output in the color temperature you desire. For ambient lighting, select soft white bulbs with a lower lumen output.
Opt for ENERGY STAR rated bulbs to maximize efficiency. Choose the right wattage and style recommended for the fixture. Outdoor bulbs should be rated for exterior use.
Choosing Light Fixtures
Carefully select fixtures suited to your lighting goals, home style, and location. Key factors to consider:
- Location - Will it be mounted on a wall, ceiling, or pole? Is wiring required?
- Purpose - Accent, ambient, pathway, or security lighting?
- Style - Finish and design should complement your home.
- Durability - Fixtures must withstand the elements. Look for weather-resistant materials.
- Light direction - Uplighting, downlighting, or adjustable heads?
- Power source - Solar, low-voltage, or hardwired?
- Budget - Prices range from inexpensive to high-end.
For wet areas like patios or ponds, choose fixtures rated for damp locations. Use motion sensor lights only where needed, like driveways or backyards, since they can be triggered unintentionally.
Choose ENERGY STAR rated fixtures for better efficiency and performance. Pay attention to the lumen output, beam angle, and lighting pattern. For softer ambient lighting, look for fixtures with wider beam angles that spread the light.
Positioning Your Lights
Proper placement amplifies the impact of outdoor lighting. Follow guidelines for positioning:
Height
- Mount pathway lighting 12-18 inches above the ground.
- Spotlights should be 6-8 feet above the object for best illumination.
- Ambient post lights work at 6-10 feet high.
- For larger areas, pole lights should be 10-20 feet tall.
Angle
- Uplighting is angled up into trees or onto structures.
- Downlighting shines down from fixtures directly above.
- Silhouette lighting shines horizontally behind the object to create a silhouette.
Location
- Put pathway lighting along walkways, stairs, and curbs.
- Position post lights between posts and yard features.
- Spotlights focus on architectural elements or plants.
- Area lights spread illumination over open areas.
- Perimeter lights encircle edges and boundaries.
Tips
- Space lights evenly for consistent coverage.
- Keep glare away from windows and seating areas.
- Layer different types of lighting for depth.
- Highlight key focal points in the yard.
Experiment with positioning and angles to determine optimal placement before permanently installing fixtures. The magic is in the details.
Tips for Installing Outdoor Lighting Yourself
With the right tools and safety precautions, you can install your new outdoor lighting without an electrician.
Safety First
- Turn off breakers and electricity before wiring.
- Use a fiberglass ladder for installing fixtures above your reach.
- Wear protective eyewear when drilling holes.
- Ask for help lifting heavy fixtures or climbing ladders.
Tools You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Pencil or marker
- Drill and drill bits
- Wire strippers
- Voltage meter
- Shovel for in-ground wiring
Wiring Tips
- Use exterior-rated wire for all outside fixtures.
- Run wiring through conduit for protection underground.
- Use watertight connectors to connect wires.
- Install a ground fault interrupter outlet for safety near water sources.
- Hire an electrician if you need to run 220-volt lines for large fixtures.
Installation Guide
Follow manufacturer instructions for safe installation. General steps include:
- Mark light locations with spray paint.
- Dig trenches for underground wiring.
- Mount fixture bases securely on walls or poles.
- Run wiring from lights to power source and make connections.
- Attach fixtures to bases and install light bulbs.
- Test lights to ensure proper operation.
- Fill in trenches and enjoy your new outdoor lighting!
With the right homework and safety steps, you can install beautiful and functional lighting without spending a fortune on installation costs. Just take your time and use quality materials rated for outdoor use. Soon you'll be enjoying your yard after dark!