Outdoor lighting is more than just a functional necessity, it also improves the look of your home, turning your outdoor areas like the patio, porch, backyard or entryways into beautiful, well-lit spaces. With a wide selection of outdoor lighting options available, from simple string lights to advanced smart lighting systems, there are countless ways to enhance your outdoor areas.
Popular Outdoor Lighting Products
Outdoor Pendants and Chandeliers
Outdoor pendants and chandeliers bring a touch of elegance to exterior spaces. They come in many different styles, from rustic farmhouse to modern contemporary, making it easy to find the perfect fixture to suit the style of your outdoor spaces. These fixtures are perfect for adding style to outdoor dining areas or to light up a patio.
When choosing these lights, consider the scale of the space and select a fixture that will fit appropriately. A compact pendant may be more appropriate for small cozy spaces, whereas a more ornate chandelier can be a showstopper in large-scale outdoor spaces. Look for weather-resistant materials and finishes to ensure durability for the elements they will be exposed to.
String Lights
String lights are one of the most versatile outdoor lights thanks to their ability to be configured many different ways. String lights are not just for holidays – they can be used to create an inviting ambiance as backyard lights or for any outdoor space year round.
Whether you are draping them across trees or pergolas, or outlining patios and balconies, string lights add a warm glow that creates a relaxing ambiance. When installing string lights, consider opting for LED versions for longer life and lower energy costs. It’s also important to make sure your string light selection is rated for outdoor use to withstand the elements.
Solar-Powered Lights
Solar-powered outdoor lights are a sustainable choice that can help to significantly reduce energy costs. These lights store solar energy during the day and light up at night without the need for electrical wiring, making them easy to install and environmentally friendly.
They come in various forms, including solar post lights that can illuminate pathways, decorative path lights for gardens, and powerful spotlights to highlight your home’s best features. When installing solar lights, make sure to place them in areas that receive ample sunlight to charge efficiently. Whether you go for a solar powered post light, pier mount or path light, these versatile fixtures are a sustainable and functional choice.
Exterior Wall Lights
Adding outdoor wall lighting can significantly boost your home's curb appeal. The front door is one of the first features your guests will notice when they visit your home – the right outdoor wall light is a great way to enhance this area!
Wall lights not only provide necessary illumination but also highlight and brighten the architectural features of your home. From traditional lanterns to modern outdoor sconces, there are many different fixture types and styles to choose from.
Select outdoor light fixtures that complement the style of your home and that brighten the space for safety. Outdoor wall lights are a great way to illuminate a porch or patio, entryways like the front or back door, or to provide a soft layer of additional lighting as patio lights in communal dining or relaxing areas.
LED Landscape Lighting
LED lighting is a popular choice for outdoor spaces thanks to its energy efficiency and long life span. LED landscape lights come in various forms, including spotlights to accentuate trees and sculptures, and floodlights for larger areas.
When designing with LED lights, think about what features of your garden or yard you want to highlight and plan your placement accordingly. Many people will space their landscape lighting out along pathways or garden beds to provide even illumination and accentuate their yard.
Smart Outdoor Lighting Systems
Smart lighting integrates seamlessly with home automation systems, allowing you to control lighting remotely and customize settings for different scenarios or times of day. These systems can enhance security, provide convenience, and even help with energy conservation through features like motion sensors and light scheduling.
Integrating smart outdoor lighting involves planning and in some cases, professional installation, but it can be a great way to customize your outdoor lighting scheme. Being able to adjust the brightness, colour and timing of the light allows you to create the perfect ambiance for every occasion.
Selecting the Right Outdoor Lights
When choosing outdoor lighting, consider the power source, durability, and style. Solar options are ideal for reducing energy consumption, while wired systems might offer more reliability and power to brighten larger areas. It’s important to choose fixtures with durable materials that are suited for the Canadian climate.
Budget is another important consideration. While you may be tempted to opt for cheaper options, investing in higher-quality, durable lighting can save more money in the long run due to lower maintenance and replacement costs. Choosing durable options that will withstand the elements can help you prolong the lifespan of your lighting, and save you money over time. Browse your options to find the best balance between cost and quality.
Match your lights to specific outdoor areas by considering their function and the atmosphere you wish to create. Path lights for safety along walkways, ambient lighting for seating areas, and task lighting for outdoor kitchens or grills are all considerations that can define what lighting fixtures you need.
Designing Your Outdoor Lighting Scheme
Creating a cohesive outdoor lighting design involves more than just placing lights at strategic points, it involves creating an ambiance that will brighten and enhance the night-time appeal of your outdoor space. Consider using a layered approach with ambient, task, and accent lighting to add depth and richness. Use lighting to highlight architectural features and key landscaping elements, such as trees or hardscaping.
Tips for Maintaining Your Outdoor Lighting
Routine maintenance is key to keep your outdoor lighting in good working condition. Regularly clean the light fixtures to prevent dirt and debris from affecting their performance. Check solar panels on solar lights periodically to make sure they are not obstructed by plants. Replace any burnt-out bulbs right away to keep your lighting functional and brighten your spaces evenly.
Create Welcoming Outdoor Spaces with Lights Canada’s Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting isn’t just about visibility, it's about creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances your home's aesthetic. Whether you go for the subtle charm of patio lights or prefer the advanced features of smart lighting systems, there are endless possibilities to explore.
With the right products and design, you can transform your outdoor space into a stunning nighttime landscape for you and your guests to enjoy. Embrace the opportunity to experiment with different types of light and create an outdoor oasis that reflects your personal style. Browse our selection of outdoor light fixtures to find the perfect fixtures to make your outdoor spaces shine. Shop outdoor lighting on Lights Canada.
