Choosing the Perfect Exterior Light Fixture

Choosing the right exterior lighting is a matter of taste and practicality. Exterior fixtures serve a variety of purposes, including security, welcome, safety and decoration. To get the right fixtures you need to be very clear as to the primary purpose of the light you need before you begin shopping.

In addition to fixture design and aesthetic concerns, you will want to consider bulb types and expense as well. The perfect light will be one that fulfills its function while providing the longest possible bulb life and economy.

Exterior light fixtures break into two basic categories – safety and security lights and decorative lights. Let’s deal with the security lights first. Security lights are designed to keep your home safe – it is a proved fact that a well lit home is less likely to get robbed so security lights are generally in the form of flood lights.

These lights may or may not be on motion sensors. Safety lights generally are designed to insure that no-one trips coming up your sidewalk. These lights are often on motion sensors – only clicking on to light the path when actually needed. Path lights can often be powered by solar energy as well, saving you money on electricity.

A decorative exterior light fixture is usually used on the porch, the back deck and to highlight architectural features. The key when choosing these fixtures is to get a lamp made of a hearty outdoors material that is aesthetically pleasing against the materials that form the walls of your house.

For example, copper or brasses look particularly good against brick facing. Luckily there are hundreds of styles to choose from so you are sure to find the perfect exterior lights for your home. It is important to have your lighting professionally installed to avoid damage to your home and to insure that all electrical wiring is done up to code standard.

The right exterior light fixture can add value to your home when they are attractive and professionally installed. The light from these fixtures can serve as a safety feature, added home security or simply as decoration and highlights for architectural features. Good exterior lighting will give a sense of welcome to your guests as well.

Before you shop, take a walk around your house at night to take note of dark spots, safety problems and potential security hazards – this way you will have a clear idea of just what lights you need.