Outdoor wall lights to brighten your home’s exterior

If your garden’s looking dingy in the dark, or you regularly find yourself fumbling for keys at the front door, then it’s time to invest in some new outdoor wall lights. There is such a wide range available nowadays that it can be difficult to know where to start, but rather than rushing straight down to the local DIY store and taking a chance on the first thing you see, spend some time planning how you can best install good quality outdoor lighting to achieve different objectives.

For example, task lighting is important outside for areas such as paths, decking and entranceways and outdoor wall lighting can be used here to provide accent lighting to illuminate a feature. Getting this kind of lighting right means that you can continue to use your outdoor space after dark. Safety lighting is ideal around porches, entranceways and alleys, so you can see where you’re going and to highlight the way for visitors. Consider highlighting back doors, side routes, sheds and garages in the same way. There are many different types of task lighting. Flush fitted wall fixtures are neat attached to the house, whilst lantern style lights give a more traditional and inviting feel. Floodlights are ideal for lighting big areas such as the entire garden and deck lights are a pretty way of marking out path or seating areas. In the case of floodlights, just be careful that the glare doesn’t become a nuisance for your neighbours. Seek advice on wattages and fitting from an installation professional so you keep on good terms with those around you!

Other types of outdoor lighting can be used to create mood and atmosphere. For example, spotlight uplighters can illuminate a sculpture, water feature or plant and create intimate areas of soft lighting, whilst detracting the eye away from less attractive areas such as compost heaps and bins! Candle lanterns are lovely for entertaining, but make sure they are kept away from flammable materials and coloured light strings are great for parties and outdoor entertaining. With a transformer, they are very easy to use – simply plug into the nearest power point. There are also new solar models available, along with solar driveway markers and decorative lights.

Consider practicalities such as switch positioning carefully. For example, the front door light switch is ideal in the hallway and back garden lights are best with switches close to the back door, usually in the kitchen or utility room. Specialist lighting options are also available for your outdoor areas, such as security lights with PIR technology (passive infra-red). You may also want to make the most of energy efficient lighting to save both carbon emissions and your energy bills! These lighting fixtures can pay for themselves within the year by cutting the amount of electricity you use. They tend to last longer than traditional light bulbs and fittings too, providing a double benefit on the cost front. You’ll also have the pleasant knowledge that you’re helping to reduce carbon emissions and wasteful landfill.

Above all, have fun experimenting with your outdoor lighting and making the most of your exterior space – and when in doubt about installation, call in an accredited expert who can affix your lights safely for you.