The deck, porch, and patio offer spaces to spend time relaxing outdoors with friends and family. To better enjoy your yard after dusk, here are a few simple ways to illuminate outdoor spaces. Create a welcoming and cozy vibe with lighting options that match your style and decor.
Illuminate Outdoor Spaces with String Lights
String lights are becoming more popular in outdoor spaces. You’ll find an assortment of shapes and styles at home improvement stores and online. Choose from clear globes, teardrops, Edison bulbs, star-shaped, and a variety of other options.
String lights can be hung from the rafters of a gazebo, draped across the deck posts, and installed near the top of a pergola. They contribute to a fun atmosphere while providing some additional lighting to outdoor spaces. String lights are plugged into an electrical outlet, battery- or solar-powered, and some even charge via a USB cable.
Add a Ceiling Fan
A ceiling fan is a nice addition to a covered or enclosed porch. Many ceiling fans include a lighting element as part of the fixture. Fans circulate the air outdoors and provide welcoming lighting for the front or back porch.
Build a Fire Pit
A fire pit is a warm and cozy way to light up the backyard. Build a fire pit from bricks, stones, or pavers, or purchase a pre-made model from one from your local hardware stores. You might choose a fire bowl or a propane-powered fire table to provide light and warmth while you’re spending time outdoors.
Keep fire pits at least 15 feet away from the house and don’t install one beneath an awning or overhanging branches. Fire pits, including propane-powered models, should be used in an open area with good ventilation so carbon monoxide doesn’t build up in the space.
Install Deck-Post Lights to Illuminate Outdoor Spaces
Deck-post lighting is a great way to light the perimeter of your deck. These lights are installed on the top of each post. Some varieties are electric and wired into the deck. It is best to hire an electrician to install this type. Others are solar-powered. These are easy to install yourself and are simply screwed into the top of the post.
Boost Security with Motion-Sensor Lighting
Motion-sensor lighting provides bright illumination to specific areas of your property. Motion fixtures are most often installed over the garage doors and in the side yard to power on when movement is detected. These lights boost security by deterring burglars. They also illuminate the property automatically when you or guests arrive at the home after dark.
Repel Mosquitoes with Citronella Torches
Citronella torches are perfect for use during a backyard party or gathering with friends and family. Some torches have stakes that are inserted into the ground while other lights are designed to be attached to deck rails. You can even find table-top models if that’s your preference. Purchase a paraffin fuel with citronella added to repel mosquitoes while you’re enjoying your outdoor living spaces.
Seahorse Home Inspections offers inspection services in St. Lucie County and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request our services.