Time to Light up Your Outdoors

It's time to light up your outdoors.  From now until Super Bowl Sunday daylight is limited, and on the biggest game day of the year you may be having a party.  So, why not produce the right ambiance before your guests get to the door?  Your homes outdoor space can be enchanting with the proper lighting. 

First analyze your space.  Is there something there you want to showcase; a favorite bush, tree or a seating area.  Plan ahead because planning is essential. Outdoor lighting is easy and economical to install.  

Assume your lighting needs will change from season to season.  You'll want to stay flexible by starting with a flexible system.  A transformer is the first item you'll need.  Purchase a good one to begin with and it will be the only one you'll  need.  Features to consider for your home are a photo cell, a timer, dimmers, and extra wattage according to the season.

Also, consider these techniques: 

* For highlighting a tree, use up lighting or wall-washing to enhance that area. 

* Moonlighting or down lighting cast a smooth glow and is good for path lighting or landscaping. 

* Path lighting is used for walkways, driveways, or planter beds for greater appeal. 

* Silhouette or backlighting can give a special effect that lights a background or a wall, and makes the object in front appear as a silhouette.

* Light the front of an object and it will cast its shadow onto a wall behind it. 

 * Use Halogen lamps to generate a white light that defines any edges of a subject and this will show the true color of the object. 

Be careful with using special effects lighting.  When used carelessly it can look eerie,  which may be good for Halloween but not for rest of the year.   

When installing your lights beware of the voltage drop.  The lower the gauge of cable the farther it can run from the transformer.  You may get voltage drop if you get this wrong and result in uneven or dim lighting.  

Spread your lighting and enhance your outdoor space to enjoy year round with simple changes or leave the lighting as you installed it for total comfort.