Tap to Read ➤

Deck Lighting Tips

Gaynor Borade
There are many ways in which you can address deck lighting, including the very versatile recessed lights and sophisticated deck railing lights. The endeavor will help you to effectively enhance the outdoor seating area, which can be made even more impressive with the following deck lighting tips.
If properly chosen, with careful consideration, deck lights can convert the garden or backyard into a second living space, literally! You will be amazed at what innovative placements and the very presence of light can do for the home.
Beyond the home, you will notice a considerable increase in the quality time you and your family spend outside, adding to the value of your property. There are many benefits that come along with the installation.
The effect enables you to flaunt the space to its best advantage, especially at night, highlighting the bonsai or regular garden, fountains, and statues. Most importantly, it minimizes the chances of anyone tripping or falling in dim light.

Importance of Low-voltage Lighting

It is important to decide on the lighting as a long term solution. The installation of low-voltage lights is a delight on the electrical bill. The low-voltage accessories reduce the energy costs by leaps and bounds, and at the same time offer the benefit of exterior lighting at a fraction of the expenses associated with older, higher voltage fixtures.
There are different types of low-voltage bulbs that deliver equal amount of lumens as the traditional incandescent bulbs. However, the wattage is lower and in case of the modern options of compact fluorescents and the gas halogen producer whiter, the energy consumption is lower and CO2 emissions are less.

Installation

There are a number of options to choose from. You could opt for the do-it-yourself outdoor deck light kit or post lights. These installation options are easily available at any local home improvement or hardware store, and the dedicated kits are designed along the 'all in one' and 'do it yourself' paradigms.
You get all the hardware and material for installation, with detailed instructions. The kits include the necessary fixtures, hardware, wiring, and the bulbs. You can choose from the most common types of deck lighting - the accent lights and regular lighting. While the former is suitable for smaller areas, the latter helps create illumination.

Options

The railing deck lights are used to outline the railing or highlight a statue or decorative piece. It is also used to flaunt expensive or rare plants or highlight steps and door frameworks. The railing lights could be colored lights to achieve the desired decorative effect.
You can also consider recessed lights that are fitted within the surface of the deck. These can also be used to highlight railings and steps and effectively create paths and demarcate boundaries. The recessed lights are a functional form of lighting.

Some Essential Tips

The installation of the deck lighting is not complicated; however, it is important to follow the specific directions within the kit. Ensure that the plan for the layout of the lights is sketched and viewed virtually, before you begin work. This will enable you to identify whether or not you have enough fixtures to serve the purpose.
Remember to turn the power off at the breaker box, when working, since you would be cutting and joining wires. Install one light at a time and test for functioning before you move on. This eliminates error. Ensure that you have all the necessary tools and supplies before you begin work.
The design adopted should center on creating an elegant and sophisticated and very functional ambiance. The idea is to increase the safety of the outdoor space, irrespective of whether you choose simple lights or designer fixtures.
The deck lighting options enable you to upgrade the value of your property. It ensures maximum return on minimum effort!