Tips on Spotlight selection for your custom Landscape Lighting

Backyard Garden Pavers Path Brick Column with Bronze Crane at Night

Outdoor spotlights draw attention to your landscaping at night and dramatically change the mood and visual appeal. You have a lot of options, and the best selection of lighting depends. Here are a few important concepts to keep in mind.

Understand Your Lighting Equipment

There are two basic styles of lights. Integrated LED lights are solid fixtures with illumination elements set in place. They are simple solutions and do not require as much planning. Lamp-Ready lights are a fixture and socket. These lamps need a separate bulb. This design increases expense, but they are customizable.

Evaluate spotlights for the following characteristics:

  • Beam Angle – A width of 60 degrees or less is standard for spotlights
  • Brightness – The amount of light measured in Lumens
  • Glare – Spotlights should have a guard to redirect light and reduce unwanted glare
  • Color – Shades of white highlight colored features differently

Lights also need to have a corrosion resistant shell and enough lead wiring to facilitate installation. Check the manufacturer’s warranty before making a purchase.

Think About Light Placement

Position spotlights to highlight unique features and create visual rhythm along walls and pathways. The reflection of the beam should not reflect or increase the ambient lighting. They merely make objects more noticeable.

Install up-lights along the ground next to pathways, structures, and gardens. They shine upwards to illuminate an object. Down-lights mount to rooftops or overhangs, and they light the ground or balance lighting from other spotlights.

Get Help with the Installation

A complete lighting system needs a safe design. A new circuit with faulty wiring or protection creates safety hazards. Always follow safety procedures when working with high voltage or accessing power lines.

You also need to properly insulate the system from external damage caused by the elements. This is especially true if electrical wires are next to watering or drainage routes. Moisture in electrical wiring accelerates corrosion and could become a shock hazard.

Ask the experts at Rocky Mountain Custom Landscapes for assistance selecting and installing your outdoor spotlights – (970) 409-1212.

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