Why Outdoor Lighting Is A Must In Summer

Outdoor lighting adds extra security for you and your family while making the outside of your home feel warm and welcoming. 

And finding the right balance between style and safety doesn’t have to mean sacrificing one for the other. Many contemporary lighting fixtures combine both functions seamlessly. 

So, if you want to add some comfort and security to your garden this summer, here’s a guide to finding the right outdoor lighting solution for you. 

The benefits of adding outdoor lighting this summer

Extend your summer living space 

Summer nights are made for entertaining, whether that’s an afternoon barbecue, a quiet dinner on the patio, or a game night with friends. 

But without proper lighting, these spaces go to waste once the sun sets. Extend your time outdoors with garden lighting, transforming a dark, unusable space into a vibrant social hub. 

Implementing strategic lighting means you can define dining areas, highlight fire pits and create ambient zones that make you want to stay out for longer, even after the sun goes down. 

Better security during peak vacation season

Warmer months mean peak season for travel and vacations, but empty houses equal higher burglary rates. Intruders will target houses left in darkness, whilst a well-lit home acts as a deterrent. 

Motion sensor lights and lighting around the perimeter of the house signal that a property is occupied and monitored. And illuminating your driveway, side gates, and dark corners limits hiding spots. 

All these measures deter intruders and give you peace of mind when enjoying your summer vacation, so you can relax knowing your home is secure. 

For more information on deterring intruders, check out our blog: Tips on Securing Your Home.  

Improve safety and prevent accidents 

More people spending time in the garden is a great thing, but it also means accidents are more likely to happen. 

Guests who are unfamiliar with the space, and small children running around can be a recipe for disaster without adequate lighting. Poorly lit pathways, uneven steps, or hidden garden obstacles are all tripping hazards in a dark garden. 

Luckily, these are simple fixes. Installing path lights and step lighting guarantees that everyone moves around your property safely, without the risk of falls and injuries. 

Boosts curb appeal and property value

Outdoor lighting on the front of your property isn’t only great for security; it’s also a cost-effective way to improve your home’s curb appeal. 

Well-placed lighting highlights architectural details, showcases skilled landscaping, and adds a layer of sophistication to your property’s exterior. 

This is a great idea for homeowners that are planning to sell later in the year. A professionally lit exterior can leave a lasting impression and may even increase your property’s value. 

Take advantage of ideal installation conditions 

If you’re thinking of investing in outdoor lighting, summer is the best time to do it. Besides the benefits mentioned earlier, summer is a great time for installation because it provides the best conditions for the job.

Dry, warm weather makes digging trenches for wiring or mounting fixtures much easier than in winter. The longer days and lighter nights also give contractors more available working hours, so the job is completed more efficiently. 

Get started on your outdoor lighting

It’s important to identify the goals for any outdoor lighting you’re thinking of purchasing. Do you want to prioritise security, entertainment or aesthetics? 

Once you know what you want to achieve with your lighting, you can choose which system and style is right for you. 

Picking which type of system you want helps narrow down lighting options.

Hardwired systems are permanent and connected to your mains. This is ideal for security and navigation lighting, which must be reliable and structurally sound for optimal effectiveness. 

Alternatively, solar-powered lighting systems are great for flexibility and the planet. Solar-powered systems are ideal for ambient lighting, like string lights. These still serve a function, but they aren't essential for your home's security or safety. So, reliability isn’t a top priority. 

It’s also worth keeping in mind that choosing hardwired systems doesn’t mean neglecting the environment. There are plenty of LED, motion-censored, and timed lighting options for hardwired systems. This means you don't have to sacrifice performance for energy efficiency.

A good lighting layout

Whether you’re prioritising security or style, a good lighting layout is key. It helps create a well-lit, functional space. Plus, it keeps your home welcoming and respects your neighbours.

Layer your lighting

Think of your outdoor lighting in three layers. First, ambient lighting. This provides general visibility in the garden; this could be in the form of string or wall lights. 

Next, add task lighting. This focuses on specific areas like steps or cooking zones. Strip lights are especially helpful for this. 

And finally, accent lighting, this draws attention to landscaping, sculptures or architectural features. Pillar lighting and spotlighting are great for highlighting the finer details.  

Colour temperature

When choosing lighting, thinking about the colour temperature is crucial. Yellow-toned lights are great for entertainment areas. Warmer lighting creates a cosy and inviting space while serving a functional purpose. 

Cooler-toned lighting has a harsher, more clinical feel. These types of lights are more appropriate for security-focused areas. 

Avoid light pollution 

Making sure any lighting you install isn’t disruptive to your neighbours or the surrounding environment and its eco-system is essential. 

You can keep your outdoor lighting appropriate by using downward-facing fixtures, putting up shields and hoods to cut down on glare, and picking the right brightness levels. 

Smart controls are also useful for dimming and timing the lighting around your home. Not having the lights on all night prevents energy waste, which saves you money on bills and is kinder to the environment. 

If you’re thinking of integrating smart devices in your home or garden, check out our previous blog covering How Smart Devices Can Help Get The Most Out Of Your Home and Energy.

Final thoughts

The best outdoor lighting improves your home’s aesthetic and offers security at the same time. 

Good lighting design isn't just about making things as bright as possible. It's about planning the lighting on your property so that your home is safer and looks better after the sun sets.  

If you’re thinking of installing exterior lighting for your property or need advice on security proofing your home, call us on 0330 108 4111.