The Best Outdoor Lighting
Überschrift
So you’ve taken the time to plant the flowers, plan the foliage, and buy some killer patio essentials. But now it’s time to entertain, and you need to light up for the evening sky. And living in Victoria or other mild climates, you’ll want to accentuate your landscaping the best you can.
Before buying your outdoor lighting, be sure you know what you want it for and why. Your choices for a romantic backyard getaway will be different than a kid-friendly playground.
Where
Take a good look at your yard… In fact, sketching it out is a great idea too. Where are there already lights? Where are there walkways? Where do you have ponds, gardens, benches, pools, et cetera? Make sure you note where you have lighting, where you need lighting, and what kind.
Think of it this way… You put all the trouble for getting together an incredible water fountain and pond… So be sure you enhance it with a spotlight, or soft lighting around the perimeter.
Options
We all have a budget, so it’s best to determine yours before you get started. Wiring 120-volt lighting, for example, is a larger process. The lights must be buried at a depth of 18 inches to protect it from water, and a licensed electrician has to install the electrical components.
Alternatively, low-volt landscape lighting only needs an outdoor receptacle and a transformer. In addition, the cables are easier to move, and the only requirement is that the cable has to be hidden in a location out of the way.
The easiest option is solar lighting. No cords make it easy to install, and it just has to be placed so it receives enough light during the day to allow it to shine at night.
Costs
High-voltage lighting can be over $100, plus labor.
Low-voltage lighting, done by yourself, can be $30 to $350 per light, so it depends how much you are illuminating.
Solar lighting does not use installation costs, and it also doesn’t cost anything to operate (IE hydro bills), so the initial cost is the only fee. Prices often start as low as $10.
Tips
- Use landscape lights for garden paths at equal distances
- Blue lights are gorgeous for a romantic, moonlight mood
- Cast interesting shadows by placement of lights on shrubs and trees
- Add your tips below!
Check out Landscaping Victoria for more articles on making your garden, landscape, home and business looking it’s best.