Installing outdoor wall lighting is an easy way to add both functionality and style to the exterior of your home. With the right lighting fixtures and a bit of DIY know-how, you can illuminate walkways, accent architectural details, or set the perfect mood on your patio or deck. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire outdoor wall lighting installation process, from selecting the right fixtures to wiring and mounting them correctly. Follow these tips and with a little bit of effort, you’ll be able to take your outdoor space from drab to dramatic.
Choose the Right Fixtures for Your Needs
When it comes to outdoor wall lighting, you have lots of options to fit your specific needs. Here are some of the most popular types of fixtures and how they are best utilized:
Wall Sconces
Wall sconces are versatile fixtures that work well by doorways, on porches, or flanking an exterior stairway. Opt for sconces with weather-resistant features like silicone gaskets and concealed bulb chambers. Gooseneck sconces allow you to direct light right where you need it.
Accent Lights
Accent your home’s best architectural details with narrow-beam spotlights or mini accent lights. Use them to highlight eaves, columns, dormers, or other exterior focal points.
Step Lights
Low-voltage LED step lights are ideal for illuminating stairways, pathways, and decks. Their compact size allows them to be inconspicuously recessed. Some even have sensors to automatically turn on when they detect motion.
Flood Lights
Flood lights help brightly illuminate large areas of your property. They work well by garage or back doors and in alcoves. Choose an adjustable fixture to aim the beam precisely where needed.
Wall Lanterns
For an elegant, classic look, install a wall lantern with scrolled metalwork and paned glass. Use lantern styles to light up your front door area or line a driveway or walkway.
Pendant Lights
Hanging pendants add stylish illumination to porches and patios. Opt for weather-resistant fixtures with frosted, seeded, or hammered glass for a warm, diffused glow.
Under Cabinet Lights
LED strip lights and puck lights installed under eaves, railings, or stairs add a subtle wash of light. Many have adaptable strip lengths and self-adhesive backing for easy application.
Take into account the size of the space you want to illuminate, the architectural style of your home, and the overall look you hope to achieve. This will help narrow down your many fixture options to the best ones to meet your lighting needs.
Choose the Right Bulb
The bulb you choose will impact the brightness, ambiance, and efficiency of your outdoor lights.
Incandescent bulbs cast a warm, flattering glow, but burn out quickly.
CFLs last longer, but the light color can be harsh.
LED bulbs are your best bet, providing thousands of hours of bright, energy-efficient illumination.
Consider color temperature as well when selecting your bulb. Soft white 2700K LEDs give off a relaxing, intimate glow that’s ideal for porches and patios. Bright white 5000K bulbs are better for illuminating tasks and security.
Be sure to buy exterior-rated LED bulbs with an IP65 waterproof rating. Their sealed construction prevents moisture damage. Just avoid touching the glass when hot to prevent burns or breakage.
Determine Location and Height
Carefully consider where you want to install your outdoor wall lighting for both aesthetics and function. Use these placement tips:
- Entryways: Install matching fixtures flanking the door at approximately 66”-72” above the floor. This provides warm welcoming illumination and security.
- Garages and Back Doors: Place flood lights or spotlights 8-10 feet off the ground to brighten a wide swath for safety and visibility.
- Pathway Lighting: Line walkways at 12-18 inch intervals with low-voltage path lights. For visibility, keep them 24-36 inches above the ground.
- Accent Lighting: Spotlight architectural details like eaves, dormers, columns, or gables 6-8 feet off the ground. Position the fixture at a 45-degree angle.
- Stair Lights: Mark each step with recessed LED stair lights placed at the edge. For the best visibility, install them near the vertical riser.
- Deck and Patio: To create ambiance, install pendant lights 10-12 feet above the floor. For task lighting, opt for post lights placed 24-36 inches above the deck floor.
Follow all local building codes for proper clearances from doors and operable windows. Avoid aiming lights directly into neighboring properties.
Calculate Proper Wattage
When deciding on light wattage, consider both the size of the space and the task you want the lighting to perform. Here are some general wattage guidelines:
- Accent and decorative lights: 3-25 watts
- Stair lighting: 5-10 watts
- Entryway illumination: 25-60 watts
- Security and spotlights: 40-150 watts
- Pathway illumination: 10-18 watts
- Floodlights: 150-500 watts
Keep in mind, wattage needs will vary based on your goals, such as mood lighting vs. illuminating tasks. Also, opting for energy-efficient LED bulbs means you can use lower wattage to produce sufficient light.
If unsure, it’s better to start with lower wattage bulbs. You can always swap them out for brighter ones if more light is needed. Just be sure not to exceed the maximum wattage stated on the fixture to prevent overheating and hazards.
Use Hardwired Fixtures for Permanence
For a clean look and reliable performance, consider wiring your outdoor wall lights directly to your home’s electrical system. Though more complex than plug-in fixtures, hardwired lights are permanent, more secure, and energy efficient without the need for an outdoor outlet and extension cord.
Hardwired fixtures do require basic electrical knowledge to install safely. Be sure to:
- Turn off the circuit breaker for the outlet you are using.
- Use UL-listed, outdoor-rated lights and junction boxes.
- Run 14/2 awg exterior electrical cable from the junction box to the light fixture.
- Make watertight connections with silicone and outdoor-rated wire nuts.
- Attach the fixture securely to the junction box.
- Caulk gaps with silicone sealant.
If wiring to an existing exterior outlet, be sure the circuit can handle added amperage load. For larger installations, you may need to run new wiring directly from the electrical panel with the help of an electrician.
Consider Low-Voltage for Ease and Safety
For DIY-friendly installation without complex wiring, low-voltage lighting is a great option. These 12V or 24V fixtures run off an outdoor-safe transformer plugged into a GFCI outlet. The benefits include:
- No need to access household wiring.
- Reduced electrical hazard risk.
- Simpler installation for beginners.
- Adaptable modular components.
Since you don’t need to hardwire, low-voltage systems offer flexibility in placement. Just take care to:
- Use UL-rated, outdoor low-voltage components.
- Make drip loop connections and sealants.
- Bury cables at proper depth.
- Not exceed the transformer wattage capacity.
Low-voltage works well for accent, path, and step lighting. Just be mindful of voltage drop over longer cable runs, which can dim bulbs.
Follow Codes for Proper Installation
Whether low-voltage or 120V, be sure to follow electrical and building codes for safe and legal outdoor lighting installation:
- Use only UL-listed, exterior-rated components.
- Install a GFCI outlet if using plug-in fixtures.
- Keep cables and connectors above ground and protected.
- Caulk holes and make watertight wire connections.
- Adhere to height clearances from doors and windows.
- Mount fixtures securely to structural surfaces.
Adhering to codes and manufacturer instructions will help ensure your lighting system performs well for years while minimizing hazards from electrocution, fires, or water damage. Check with your city building department if unsure of legal requirements.
Mount Fixtures Securely
Outdoor lights endure a lot of weather extremes and physical impacts. Follow these tips to keep fixtures securely mounted:
For wall lights:
- Use expanding anchor bolts for masonry surfaces. Pre-drill holes.
- On siding, attach metal backplates firmly screwed into studs.
- Use hollow wall anchors and toggle bolts on hollow surfaces.
- Place silicone gasket behind fixtures to seal gaps.
- Caulk perimeter with flexible, waterproof sealant.
For pendant lights:
- Attach directly to a beam, joist or structural post.
- Use steel cable for hanging lights to allow motion.
- Keep pendant fixtures away from active areas to avoid impact.
- Check fixtures level to avoid water pooling.
For path and step lights:
- Fully recess into concrete or mounting block.
- For gravel paths, attach to buried plastic stake.
- On decks, secure into joist, not just floor boards.
- Angle fixture slightly to avoid water intrusion.
Taking time to firmly fasten lights will keep them shining brightly and prevent dislodgement during storms. Check fixtures periodically for stability.
Make Drip Loops and Seal Connections
Since outdoor lights endure rain, snow, and sprinklers, it’s vital to make watertight connections that prevent moisture damage. Follow these tips:
Drip loops – Leave a loop of wire below every electrical junction pointing downward so water drips off instead of running into the connection.
Weatherproof wire nuts – At junction box connections, tightly twist wires together with UL-listed, watertight wire nuts made for outdoor use. Apply silicone sealant around the nut.
Seal penetrations – Wherever wires enter a junction box, conduit, or light housing, tightly pack the gaps with silicone caulk to block water ingress.
Conduit fittings – For low-voltage systems, securely connect conduit ends with waterproof conduit coupling compound and screw fittings rated for outdoor use.
Heat shrink seals – Add an extra layer of protection over wire nut connections and LED light wires with adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing. Apply heat to seal.
Cable grease – Coat the ends of low-voltage landscape cables with cable grease before inserting into connectors to displace moisture and prevent corrosion.
Proper seals are critical for preventing shorts, corrosion, and electrical hazards from moisture penetration. Inspect all connections and seals periodically to ensure they stay intact.
Bury Low-Voltage Cables at Proper Depth
Low-voltage landscape lighting cables that run underground must be buried deep enough to avoid damage. Follow these guidelines:
- burial depth of 6-8 inches for cables under driveways or walkways
- burial depth of 8-12 inches near planting beds and fence lines
- burial depth of 12-18 inches for cables crossing under driveways or sidewalks
Before burying, mark cable runs with colored flags or spray paint. Clear the path of all sharp rocks, roots, and debris to avoid punctures. Place a thin layer of sand in the trench before laying cables. Avoid kinking the cables when backfilling and tamping.
For convenient access, leave slack at light fixtures and bury extra cable in looped coils. Install UL-approved direct burial low-voltage cable rated for outdoor use. Avoid shallow burial that could lead to cable damage, electrical shorts and lighting failures.
Illuminate Stairways Properly for Safety
Outdoor stairs pose tripping hazards, making smart illumination vital for safety and visibility. Follow these tips:
Mark stair edges – Install low-voltage LED stair lights recessed in the step edge or riser. Aim for consistent spacing all the way down.
Light bottom and top – Place fixtures at the foot and head of the stairs to fully bracket the area with light.
Avoid glare – Position stair lights to avoid blinding angles as you look down the staircase.
Use handrails – Install handrails with built-in LED strips to clearly define pathways.
Highlight changes – Illuminate any changes in step direction or stair landings to prevent falls.
Use three-way switches – Install 3-way switches at the top and bottom of the stairway for convenience.
The brighter and more consistent your stair illumination, the safer passage will be in the dark. Always leave exterior stair lights on at night or install motion detectors for automatic activation.
Add Lighting to Pathways and Driveways
Pathway lighting serves both aesthetic and practical purposes. Follow these tips for best results:
- Space low-voltage path lights 12-15 feet apart for continuous lighting.
- On straight paths, aim fixtures to point toward each other to overlap beams.
- On curved paths, angle fixtures to point 5-10 degrees ahead.
- Position fixtures 24-36 inches above the ground to reduce glare.
- Use warm 2700K LED bulbs or install shielded fixtures to minimize glare.
- Place extra lights at path intersections and dark corners.
- Highlight changes in path elevation, obstacles or direction with additional fixtures.
- Install pressure plates or motion sensors to activate pathway lighting automatically when approached.
Proper aiming, fixture spacing, and bulb color help ensure your path lights effectively guide visitors while not feeling overly bright. Always keep photocells and timers adjusted for the desired illumination duration at night.
Light Up Yard Features and Landscaping
Outdoor lighting can accentuate trees, gardens, fountains, and architectural features:
Up-lighting – Install recessed fixtures or path lights 1-2 feet from the base of trees, walls, or columns. Tilt the fixtures 30-45 degrees to graze the vertical surface with light.
Down-lighting – Hang pendant fixtures or mount spotlights in tree canopies pointing downward to highlight foliage and create a moonlight effect.
Back-lighting – Position shielded spotlights or flood lights behind tree canopies or fountains to produce a silhouette effect.
Pond and pool lighting – Fully submersible LED pond lights create sparkling effects underwater. Low-voltage pool lighting can illuminate the water without risk of electrocution.
Statue illumination – Use narrow-beam spotlights mounted at a 45-degree angle to add drama to statues or architectural elements.
Take time to adjust the angles, intensity, and beam spread of accent lights to get the desired highlighting effect. Position fixtures discreetly within landscape vegetation to avoid glare.
Maintain Proper Beam Angle and Intensity
Properly adjusting the direction and intensity of outdoor lighting fixtures helps prevent excessive glare while directing light where it’s most useful. Follow these tips:
Avoid aiming lights upward – Fixtures should point down toward the ground at no more than a 45 degree angle to reduce night sky light pollution.
Shield fixtures – Add hoods, louvers or shades to conceal the light source and prevent blinding glare from bare bulbs.
Adjust spotlights carefully – Narrow 20-30 degree beam spotlights must be precisely aimed. Widen to 60 degrees if broader coverage is needed.
Use warm color temperatures – Warm white 2700K or 3000K bulbs feel more inviting than harsh blue-tinged daylight tones over 5000K.
Angle pathway lighting inward – Position path lights to face slightly inward toward each other to minimize peripheral glare.
Name GFCI circuits clearly
Take time to adjust angles and brightness to provide sufficient illumination while avoiding harsh glare into neighboring properties, pathways or street traffic. Consider installing fixtures on dimmers to lower intensity levels at night as needed for ambiance and courtesy.
Install GFCI Outlets Properly
Installing outdoor outlets with GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protection is critical for safety with plug-in lighting. Here are some tips:
- Only use weatherproof, self-closing outlet covers labeled “extra duty” to protect against moisture.
- Locate outlets high up under eaves to prevent rainwater intrusion.
- Outlets must be installed a minimum of 12 inches above the ground with proper drainage.
- For new outlets, use UL-listed outdoor GFCI receptacles with weatherproof covers.
- For existing outlets, install GFCI protection at either the receptacle or circuit breaker.
- Label the GFCI-protected circuit clearly in the electrical panel for easy identification.
- Test GFCI outlets monthly by pressing the “test” button to trip the circuit. Reset before use.
Proper GFCI protection is crucial for preventing electrocution and electrical fires. Never plug lighting equipment into unprotected outlets or overload circuits. Install new outlets with the help of a licensed electrician if unsure.
Use Timers and Photocells for Automated Control
For effortless operation of your outdoor lighting, install timers and photocells to automatically activate fixtures at night:
Electronic timers – Programmable timers allow setting an exact schedule for lights to turn on and off. Choose an outdoor-rated, grounded timer rated for 15-20 amps.
Photocells – These light-sensing controls switch lights on at dusk and off at dawn to operate hands-free daily. Look for weatherproof, frosted sensor housings that delay activation.
Motion sensors – Detectors that activate lights for a set duration when triggered can increase security, safety, and convenience along paths and stairways.
Smart switches – For automated control and scheduling via smartphone, consider installing outdoor smart switches to operate your lighting remotely.
Astronomical timers – For the most precision, choose advanced timers programmed by GPS location to automatically adjust on/off settings daily based on seasonal sunset/sunrise.
Automated controls help ensure proper operating hours for pathway lights, while avoiding wasted energy from lights left on accidentally. Program settings to best match your needs and outdoor activity hours.
Choose Durable, Weatherproof Materials
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