American Family Insurance

Shed some light on outdoor spaces

Summer is well underway, and spending time outdoors is a hallmark of the season. Whether homeowners want to host backyard barbecues or tend to a garden after the daytime heat subsides, investing in outdoor lighting can enhance curb app eal and reduce safety hazards. Testing different styles of outdoor lighting can help you find a fixture that allows the property to shine. Safe & Secure

Exterior lighting can improve visibility on a property, which increases a home’s safety and security. Flood lights and motion-sensor lights are designed to brighten a large area of a property. These lights serve as a preventative measure to keep both animals and criminals away.

For best results, position lights in high locations to cast wide beams of light. However, use recommended wattage to cast light over the area without affecting neighboring properties. When shopping for bulbs, consider the number of lumens. A standard 100-watt bulb produces around 1,600 lumens. Security lights should range from 700 to 1,300 lumens for optimal brightness. But other styles of lights do not need to be so bright. Glow & Glamour

Even as summer days grow shorter, providing ample outdoor lighting is helpful for navigating at dusk and enjoying evenings outdoors. Traditionally, many homeowners mount outdoor fixtures near doorways, garages and patio space. Installing fixtures in areas that receive more traffic can shine a little light and add more style. Whether hanging from covered carports or attaching to porch posts, place lights overhead.

One way to improve the ambiance is to use bulbs with warmer colors that create an inviting atmosphere, rather than brighter security-style bulbs. When deciding on wallmounted fixtures outdoors, consider a slight increase in the size of the lamp or sconce to scale well with items such as doors and shutters. Accents & Aesthetics

Outdoor fixtures can also be used to illuminate a home’s best characteristics. From landscaping and pathways to entrances and architectural design, showcase a home’s more delicate details with exterior lights. Solar-powered lamps are great for landscaping because they typically require no wiring. Instead, the solar panels charge the lights during the day. Best of all, solar-powered lights save on electrical costs, and come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles.

Hanging string lights can also add personality to any outdoor space. Whether hosting gatherings or decorating for holidays, string lights use dozens of small, dim bulbs to provide a welcoming warmth. Remember to inspect any cords prior to installation.

Lighting can transform outdoors spaces for the better. While there are many great outdoor lighting options, not all of them are as versatile as others. String lights might be great for an ambiance or holiday festivities, but they are not as practical as solar powered lights. Mounted lighting is great for brightening up an entrance, but not always great for seeing at a distance.

Finally, be sure that any fixtures used on home exteriors are safety-rated for outdoors. Wet-rated fixtures are designed to withstand direct exposure to outdoor elements, advises the design experts at Schoolhouse, a lighting and lifestyle goods company. Damp-rated fixtures are built for outdoor locations protected from harsh weather. Look for the product details or work with an electrician to choose the right lighting choices. n