In a time where the farthest we can go outside of our homes is our own backyards, gardens, or decks, it’s nice to spruce it up with some outdoor lighting so you can enjoy a relaxing time. You most probably already have some sort of lighting installed for your outdoor area for safety purposes, but it’s time to consider adding ambient lighting as well as functional lighting.
Ambient lighting transforms your deck or garden to a space you can have romantic dinners in with your spouse, a warm, cozy barbecue with the whole family, or just to spend some time in to put your feet up and destress from the day.
What’s the difference between ambient lighting and functional lighting?
Ambient lighting is indirect and soft as opposed to functional lighting, which is a bit harsher on the eyes. It creates a welcoming environment for your deck. There are plenty of options for ambient lighting that are low voltage, inexpensive, and easy to install. Energy-efficient LED deck lighting lends a gorgeous atmosphere to your outdoor living space while going easy on your electricity bills. There are also solar-powered options that take care of the extra electricity usage altogether.
While we can’t have people over for parties and dinners just yet, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your deck or garden to yourself. Ambient lighting transforms your deck or garden to a space you can have romantic dinners in with your spouse, a warm, cozy barbecue with the whole family, or just to spend some time in to put your feet up and destress from the day. It can also be appreciated by passersby.
There’s many ways to add LED lights to your deck or garden, here are some of them.
1. Deck stair lights
Installing lights on deck stairs gives subtle illumination and also makes going up and down the steps in the nighttime safer as they show you where each step is. No tripping or slipping or missing a step.
2. String lights
An easier way to add LED lights to your outdoor space is with string lights. Simply hang or staple them to the wall and watch as they lend an enchanting, festive atmosphere to your dinners and family nights no matter the time of the year.
3. Under-table lights
If you have a cooking area outside, you can install lighting underneath the countertops of your work spaces. They’ll double as mood lighting and functional lighting for when you’re slicing, chopping, frying, or grilling.
4. Deck cap lights
Deck cap lights work well as lovely, subtle accents to your deck space. They’re not as bright as other deck lighting options so they’re a good choice if you like star gazing. They’re also available at most home improvement stores or online.
5. In floor lights
Yes, lights on your floor. Again they illuminate steps and pathways without blinding you, while simultaneously providing subtle mood lighting as well.
6. Recessed lights
If your deck has a ceiling, a safe option is recessed lighting. They allow for maximum illumination of your deck so your stairs, steps, and everything else is well lit.
7. Garden lights
Give your garden a fairytale effect at night by hiding luminaires behind a shrubbery or along a hedgerow. It’s best to use solar-powered lights for this type of use as they can capture power from the sun in the daytime and then that power illuminates your garden at night. Tree accent lights also make for an extra special enhancement to your outdoor lighting.
8. Pool deck lights
Night swimming is fun and relaxing but the slippery area around the pool poses a danger. Pool deck lighting is available whether it’s installed on the floor or on rails.
Found a deck lighting idea that appeals to you? Beta Electrical Solutions can help you with planning and installation to take your deck lighting visions a step closer to fruition. Call us today to get started on the deck of your dreams.
