How To Light The Outside Of Your Home
Spruce up your home and keep it safe with outdoor lighting.
Spruce up your home and keep it safe with outdoor lighting.
Lighting up the exterior of your home is about more than just aesthetics—you can enhance your home security, too. Your home’s outdoor lighting can play a significant role in deterring potential intruders and providing safety for your family and guests. Keep reading to learn how you can illuminate—and secure—your home effectively.
What should you keep in mind while installing outdoor lighting in your home? Consider a balance between aesthetics and security, explore various types of light fixtures, and take advantage of motion-activated or smart lights. Here are six outdoor lighting ideas for you.
If you’re not quite sure where to start, consider the three basic types of lighting. Task lighting illuminates specific areas for tasks like outdoor cooking or seating. Ambient lighting brightens the overall space and sets the mood. We recommend using low-wattage bulbs for better comfort. Accent lighting highlights architectural features for visual interest.
Then, there’s probably the most important type of lighting: security lighting. Lighting for safety is essential for deterring intruders and preventing accidents around your home. Security lighting includes various fixtures, like step lights for safe walking and motion-activated floodlights like the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera.
A well-illuminated perimeter is crucial for preventing a home invasion. Lights eliminate dark areas and blind spots where intruders could hide. Also, the increased visibility lets you see any suspicious activity and take proper measures.
But while small areas are easier to illuminate, expansive spaces like driveways or yards require stronger, brighter lights. Enter floodlights. Options such as the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight Camera feature a powerful 2K security camera built right into a bright LED floodlight for all-in-one security. It’s also wire-free, making it easy to install even far away from your home.
Color temperature can play a significant role in your outdoor lighting designs. Warmer color temperatures are inviting and create a cozy atmosphere, while cooler temperatures provide clearer, more vibrant illumination. Experiment with different color temperatures to find the perfect balance for your home.
House lights with motion sensors are a practical way to illuminate high-traffic areas while also saving energy. They can be used in walkways to prevent accidents and, just as important, deter potential criminals.
Opt for a two-in-one solution with a security camera featuring an integrated spotlight. Options like the Arlo 2nd Gen Essential Camera come with an integrated spotlight that activates automatically when motion is detected. Choose between the HD or 2K models, and pair it with the Arlo Secure subscription for additional features like Cloud Storage.
To amp up your energy-savings even more, consider pairing your Arlo security camera with a Solar Panel Charger. Also, remember: If your lights are going to be exposed, you’ll want to get a wet-rated fixture. Luckily, with the exception of their indoor cameras, every Arlo security camera is weather-resistant for year-round protection.
Consider the various architectural elements of your home that you can highlight with landscape lighting. Things like garden walls, doors, trees, and pathways can become focal points. The goal is to draw attention to what’s being illuminated, rather than the actual light source itself. Keeping this in mind can help you create a cohesive lighting scheme that looks good and boosts security.
Lighting fixtures and floodlights should be placed at least 25 feet or higher for optimum coverage. You can also attach lights to a tree with a canopy to create a ripple effect on the ground, or place floodlights at an angle to illuminate pathways or driveways.
Smart lights are lighting fixtures capable of connecting to your Wi-Fi network and communicating with other smart devices. You can turn them on and off from your smartphone and create schedules for them. Preparing for an extended vacation? Use them to create the illusion of being home while you’re away.
Remember: Outdoor lighting is about increasing your home’s curb appeal while enhancing security. With Arlo security cameras and floodlights, you’ll be able to shine a light on your home exterior while making it extra safe. When it comes to protecting you, your property, and your loved ones, investing in home security is always a bright idea.
