Landscape Lighting Benefits and Options

Want to stop carrying around a flashlight when you go outside? Lighting is not just used to illuminate the dark but can also enhance the house and property and highlight angles and features best noticed in the evening hours. For a better understanding of how landscape lighting can benefit your yard, check down below.

No one likes to linger outdoors if it gets too dark. Not only can it be difficult to move around, but there is an increase in chances that unsavory people could hide in the shadows. The best way to avoid intruders and trespassers is to place lights at key points throughout the yard, providing a protective cover. 

Lights do not have to only keep people away but draw people to your property as well. Lighting can greatly increase your home’s value and aesthetic quality, which is very important for those looking to sell. Placing and angling lights just right can add a dramatic effect unique to your home and ensure that your house is remembered by both buyers and real estate agents.

For those who are not concerned about the sale value of your home, adding lights to a yard can create additional space for events and family time, creating a pleasant atmosphere no matter what time of the year it is. Contractors, like those from Rock & Block Hardscape Supply, can assist you in how to best utilize landscape lighting for your home.

Where Should You Place Lighting?

While placing lights for convenience is perfectly fine, one should not pass up the opportunity to make their yard look better. Are there certain structures or elements of the property that should be highlighted? Or places best left in the dark? Analyze and determine the best way to balance the light and dark aspects of the yard. There is such a thing as too much light as well.

Types of Lighting

Line Voltage Lighting Systems

Line voltage lighting systems run on the same power source that runs the house, about 120 volts. An electrician will be necessary to install it properly as the wires will need to be waterproofed and must be buried at least eighteen inches underground. This process will make the lighting practically permanent after installation. They produce higher light levels, have higher wattage, and use larger lamps and lights, making them best for larger areas rather than smaller yards and gardens. 

Low Voltage Lighting Systems

Smaller and more flexible compared to line systems, low voltage lighting systems do not need an electrician to install. All fixtures, except for the transformer, are connected to a 12v current. The transformer remains connected to the 120v circuit. They also do not need to be buried, just hidden, which gives the user more control over where to best place the wires. They are specially designed for moist and wet locations, as there is no danger of shock value when in use. However, one drawback is that dim lights can occur over long distances due to voltage drops. Consult a professional to establish a lighting plan for the best results.

LED Low Voltage

LED lighting is the “greener” alternative option to landscape lighting. They use about 75% less electricity compared to incandescent bulbs and last way longer as well. This alternative lighting helps the environment and helps homeowners save money. They may be smaller, but this can allow for more lighting designs that would have been restricted by other lighting types. Originally, LEDs do cost more upfront, but due to their longer lifespan, the investment will ultimately save money and energy in the long run.

Solar Panel Powered Lighting

Solar panel technology has been one of the most environmentally innovative forms of energy used in the past several years. Utilizing solar energy in landscape lighting has also expanded exponentially. Using solar panels to generate electricity for outdoor lighting can save thousands of dollars and even eliminate electrical and maintenance costs. This can even bring light to areas the power grid can not reach, making it more convenient.

Landscape lighting is great for adding a dramatic flare to a property and giving it the feel of a luxurious estate that will have buyers come running to check it out. For the best advice on what type of landscape lighting to use for your yard and property and what would work best with your budget, consult with a professional contractor and electrician and create a yard that everyone can enjoy, whether early in the morning or late into the night. 

Learn More Rock and Block Hardscape Supply

Visit Rock & Block Hardscape Supply for all the tools and professionals you need. Come visit our stores in El Cajon or Temecula today, or look at our website at https://rockandblock.co/ to view our many offers and services. Let’s start your next project today!