Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Give Your Outdoor Patio Lighting Some Thought

By Nigel Wickenden


Before you run to the store and start buying all sorts of outdoor patio lighting, make a plan. Give a lot of thought to where you want the lights placed and how you want the end result to look. Everyone will think you hired a professional to do the work.

Outdoor living has gotten more and more popular. Even in areas where people are subject to all four seasons, summer brings people out of doors. The size of your home becomes immediately larger when you extend it beyond its present walls. Patio's are used to barbecue, and in some instances an outdoor kitchen can be installed. Having dinner outside is becoming more commonplace.

When the sun goes down, many people head indoors. With patio lights that does not have to be the case. If you are unsure of what you want to do, look for ideas in outdoor living magazines and on the internet. A lot of people will even make a scrapbook of future designs and ideas that they like. This can be brought with you when you go to purchase your lights and you will be able to relay what it is that you want.

It does not take an architect to light up an exterior patio area. Compile numerous ideas on your own and imagine how they would look when placed in your outdoor space. If you decide to hire a contractor due to all the electrical work that will need to be done, they may even have some suggestions for you. Just remember that it is your yard, and someone else's idea may not be what you are looking for.

The most difficult part is making the decision on how much light you desire. There is no law that says you cannot mix lighting and have some areas more well lit than others. You can make your choices from flood lights. Spotlights, or post lamps. Solar lightening is another option and emits a subdued lighting that many people like.

Only a do-it-yourself worker with a good deal of electrical experience should consider tackling this job alone. Improper electrical connections can result in fire or shock especially when out in the elements. A certified electrician should be hired to provide power to your lighting and make sure it is up to code.

Most people will budget certain amounts of money for any home renovation. Staying within its boundaries is the hard part. A budget includes any money that will be paid for outside help as well as the cost of lights. Any amount of money you set aside will be worth what you spend, when you begin enjoying summer evenings on your patio.




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