From oil lamps used by the Chinese in 1st Century B.C.E. to arc lamps in the 1880s in Europe and U.S.A., people had always been historically innovative in looking for ways to light up their surroundings.
Access to outdoor lighting has become convenient in the 21st century. From the invention of incandescent lamps to today’s proliferation of LED street lamps and bulbs, it has become apparent that technology will continually improve lives. Thus, you have to utilise it virtuously and even improve it.
Take Advantage of the Features
There are a few known features of having outdoor lights in your home. Moreover, it would be in your best interest to utilise these lighting features for your benefit.
Accentuate Your Curb
It is no secret that a clean and nice-looking curb creates a great first impression as a purchaser or just a visitor to the house. In addition, you immediately gauge a homeowner’s personality and quirks by looking at how they present and maintain the front and driveways of their homes.
Having outdoor lighting generates a warm welcome to guests, especially your household, as you enter your front door. After all, a home is a place of comfort, and it must exude it right from the start.
Installing a post light at the end of your driveway adds a sense of safety and a welcoming vibe. Additionally, you can stagger multiple lawn or bollard lights in several locations to increase curb appeal further with a layered look.
Unify the Overall Look and Feel
Matching the style and colour of your outdoor lights with your architectural theme can also tie everything up together.
Furthermore, it adds flair and drama to exciting features as it can highlight the landscape and surroundings.
Depending on your style, you can add modern, traditional, or ornamental fixtures that match your already existing furnishings to promote cohesion.
Assure of Safety and Security
One of the most predominant reasons you should spend money on outdoor lights is to add security to your doorways, driveways, and walkways.
The dark might be scary, but having ample light will help you find your way outside your house and from one location to another.
Installing more than one outdoor fixture is ideal for deterring burglars away and creating great distinctions in specific locations such as the entertainment and seating areas.
It would prevent accidents from tripping over curbs and steps while also allowing your family and friends to enjoy outdoor grilling or get-togethers.
Know the Difference in Material Composition
Outdoor fixtures are constantly exposed to various and sometimes intense, harsh environmental elements. More so in buildings exposed to salinity. It would be wise to know which material would be appropriate and can withstand your surroundings and the natural phenomena.
Red metals like brass, bronze, and bronze oxidise when exposed to certain elements. It is vital to note that these materials will naturally turn green but become immune as they complete the process.
Stainless steel materials are relatively cheaper and can best withstand saline environments. On the other hand, aluminium is ideal if you don’t want to get any rust in your fixtures.
Be Energy Efficient
Non-renewable energy consumption isn’t ideal and environmentally friendly. Thus, it would be best to look for outdoor fixtures with energy-efficient compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) lights.
Alternatively, light-emitting diode (LED) lights are newer and consume far less energy than incandescent bulbs, so you can limit electricity usage and seldom replace them.
Furthermore, solar-powered lights are best for sun-exposed furnishings as you won’t have to connect them to a plug or manually charge them.
