What Are the Best Outdoor Lights for a Patio?

How to Light Your Outdoor Patio

Entertainment Space

Adding a variety of patio lighting to your backyard, deck, and balcony allows your outdoor environment to be enjoyed to its fullest at night. Anymore, there is an ever-evolving range of lighting fixtures to choose from – from outdoor patio wall sconces to hanging patio lights over tables and even floor lamps. You want to strike the balance of just the right amount of lighting - don't overdo it or use the same level of light outside that you would indoors, as this could counter the vibe you’re trying to achieve. Outdoor ambient lighting, such as outdoor pendants or string lights over a dining or entertainment space creates a soothing atmosphere, echoing the feel of a French café. Outdoor patio wall sconces help define the borders of your outdoor dining or entertainment space but they can also add an artistic element. Dimmable lights are perfect patio lighting ideas if your space is going to be use for a wide variety of activities. You want to make sure they have enough output to offer enough light to keep everyone safe when playing games or cooking on the grill.

Safety Spaces 

Strategically placed outdoor accent lighting is important for guests who may not be familiar with the area. Areas between landscape surfaces, such as the edge of your patio and lawn, or spaces like stairs and decks where heights change can become a hazard if not lit properly. Outdoor ambient lighting, such as fairy lights or staked solar lights, along trees and hedges is an ideal way to add beauty and offer enough lighting to clearly see the spaces and identify boundaries. Focused task lighting in key places such as water taps, electrical breakers, and other kinds of landscaping controls help to make work easier and safer. The quality of outdoor accent lighting can make or break for the safety of steps, decks, and pathways. Whether ambient patio lighting or directed task lighting, these light sources are crucial for family members and guests to move about your backyard easily and safely.

Security Spaces

The best outdoor patio lights will make your patio safer by adding a security element. The most common areas to place outdoor patio wall sconces are entry points like the front and backdoors, driveways, near mailboxes, and the side yards. Patio wall sconces are also ideal for the places where you may dig around for your keys or hang to chat. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind but adding patio wall sconces near your trash, recycling bin, and storage areas add comfort and safety to the space. Lighting fixtures with motion or photo sensors are more appropriate for spaces where intruders commonly attempt to break in – your driveways, along the curb in front of your home, the doorways, and areas of your yard that are the darkest. The best outdoor lighting for security makes your home attractive and expands your line of sight to spot unwanted guests and discourage potential criminals from lurking around.

Contact AquaQuest About Your Patio's Outdoor Lighting System Today!

If you’re looking to add or update your patio lighting, whether adding hanging patio lights, decorative patio lighting or more, you’ll find the best outdoor lights for patio and backyard spaces with the help of AquaQuest! AquaQuest's outdoor lighting experts have the experience and knowledge to install, repair, and design outdoor lighting systems for your patio and home that meet the highest of industry standards. Contact us at (931) 980-2241 today with any of your landscape lighting questions and inquiries!