Let the Magic Begin: Transforming Your Outdoor Space
Are you ready to be dazzled by the power of outdoor lights? Read on for a straightforward tutorial that will help you illuminate your curb appeal so you can show off your home at night too.
1. Plan Your Layout
Begin by surveying your outdoor space. Take a walk around your yard at night and make note of places that could use additional light. Now, take a seat at your computer and create a diagram of your outdoor space. Label the spaces with descriptive names and number the areas you noted earlier. For example:
Pathways: Illuminate walkways to ensure safe footing and guide guests to your door.
Entrances: Emphasize your front door and any side doorways — make your house look inviting.
Landscaping: Beautiful trees, shrubs and garden beds that add depth and texture to your yard.
Architectural Features: Point out any distinctive features of your home’s architecture, such as columns, arches or textured walls.
2. Choose The Right Solar Lights
Not all solar lights are created equal. When selecting lights, consider the following types:
Path Lights: These are ideal for paths or garden walkways and are low to the ground, providing focused light.
Spotlights: Are good for accentuating features, such as trees or statues. They are bright and adjustable so you can aim the beam where it is needed most.
String Lights: String lights work perfectly with patios, decks or pergolas, especially the solar kind which provides a cozy glow for an evening in the yard.
Wall-Mounted Lights: These are perfect to mount over entryways and to provide perimeter lighting around your house.
3. Install With Ease
The most important advantage of solar lights is that they are very easy to install. Here’s a guide on how to do just that:
Path Lights: Stake it into the ground along your walkway, making sure to space them evenly to reinforce the line of light.
Spotlights: These lights will look best whenever positioned where there is plenty of sunlight for them to catch during the day. The light needs to be angled to emphasize your chosen feature.
String lights: Hooks, clips, or ties can be used to suspend these lights from fences, trellises, railings, or other structures; be creative to enhance the mood.
Wall-Mounted Lights: Place these lights on walls and/or posts at doorways, in order that they catch enough sun in a day to be fully charged.
4. Maintain For Longevity
As with any solar lights, it will need a little maintenance to keep them working at their best. Follow these tips to keep your solar light glowing:
Keep the Panels Clean: Dust and dirt can reduce their efficiency. Wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth.
Clear Obstructions: make sure that nothing — such as plants or decorations — is blocking the solar panels from sunlight.
Replace Batteries: Most solar lights come equipped with rechargeable batteries. Patient’s like the NiMH batteries with a life span of up to two years degrade eventually, which means slowing performance eventually. When you notice it, it’s time to replace the batteries.
The Final Touch: Creating a Cohesive Design Outdoor lighting is as much a design feature as it is a functional one. If you’re creating a lighting scheme, these are a few design spins to consider so it will look cohesive and stylish:
Balance and Symmetry: By placing lights symmetrically around the subject’s nose, for example, you’ll achieve a balanced, professional look.
Layer: Mix path lights, spotlights, string lights and other light effects to lend interest to your landscape.
Warm vs Cool Light: Create a cozy inviting atmosphere using warm white lights or choose cool white lights for a modern crisp look. Combining both will lend a dynamic quality to your design.
Let Your Home Shine Exterior solar lighting can turn your home into a twilight wonderland. Yes, it would boost your property’s curb appeal, but more importantly, it would make your outdoor space more usable and enjoyable, whether you’re entertaining in the summer or curling up on the garden chair with your book. So what are you waiting for? Let the solar lights illuminate your house and light up the nights.