Painstakingly piecing together just the proper outdoor lighting can be tedious and confusing, but the result is always worth it. The key to getting it done correctly is ensuring you’re making informed decisions on every detail, from wattage to beam widths. We are here to break down each aspect so you can handle your outdoor lighting situation once and for all!

Motion Sensor Type

The type of sensor installed in your outdoor lighting solution can affect the lighting type. For example, a fixed sensor will always provide illumination to the zone, but as soon as the sensor detects movement at night, it will turn off. High visibility LEDs provide constant illumination and are often mounted on poles or rooftops to make them more visible. A photoelectric sensor will only activate a light when it is dark enough to trigger that device’s response, which is ideal when you’re short on space but want an LED light bulb over your driveway or garden.

Light Duration

Outdoor lighting solutions come with variable light durations. Short-term applications such as Christmas decorations or events require different solutions. Fortunately, many options exist – from timers to motion sensors that allow the light to turn on only when triggered by movement. For longer-term installations, where you may want lights to remain on for extended periods, look for a solution that enables you to lock the lights in a steady n’ state until you unlock them again.

Light Spacing

The size of a fixture matters regarding the amount of space needed for proper illumination. To determine how many fixtures you’ll need and how close they’ll have to be together, you should also look into the size of your chosen lamps and their wattage. For example, a 2-foot wide lamp will cast more light than one 10 feet wide, even if both are equally bright.

Lighting Control Options

Some exterior lighting products are equipped with motion sensors or adjusted with the new LED technology to be able to follow the movement of someone or determine when an object is placed on a given surface. When installing outdoor lighting, you should consider if you have the option in your fixtures or if you’ll have to add something like a direct drive light switch.

Lighting includes an essential aspect of any outdoor space, as it provides safety and security and enhances the overall appearance. If you’ve been considering installing a new outdoor lighting solution but are unsure where to start, these five features will help you with your decision-making process.