If you have invested money into creating a beautifully landscaped yard, then you may want to consider low voltage outdoor lights. These lights have just enough brightness to accent features in your yard without being too bright or blinding. Most do-it-yourselfers are capable of installing low voltage outdoor lights on their own. Typically you can buy all of the parts you need at your local home improvement store. Kits are also available for purchase. The components will include the light fixtures, the transformer or power pack and the cables.
When installing low voltage outdoor lights you will want to make a light plan to help you decide where your lights will go. Lights should be used to accent features in your landscaping that you want attention drawn to. For instance, a rock wall, beautiful tree, patio, walkway, stairs or even your front door are areas that you may want to point lights to. Make sure that you don’t use too many lights while trying to avoid looking like you ran out.
When choosing your lights take into consideration what you are trying to light. If you want to light a shrub, wall or your front door, then you will need a light that angles upward and can move to point in the direction you are trying to light. If you are lighting a walkway then lamp post or pathway lights are fine. You can find low voltage outdoor lights in many different styles and finishes like brushed nickel, brass, black and more. Lights can be built into the fronts of steps, used underwater, on deck posts, pathways and even some sculptures can contain lights.
The cost of low voltage outdoor lights can vary depending on the amount of lighting fixtures you need, style and finish. Some individual fixtures can cost over $200 per light, plus you need to buy the transformer which can run as much as $600 – $700 as well as needing cables and any other additional features you may want like a timer or photo-cell. The big box home improvement stores often sell the kits for as little as $100 but you may find that spending more on buying your individual components will offer you a system that is easier to maintain, repair and will last longer.
Popular brands of low voltage outdoor lights include names like Kichler, Hinkley and Top Dog. The each make different types of light fixtures like pathway, fence post and accent lights. Choosing the right outdoor lighting can really make an impact on your landscaping.
Related Blogs
