How to Choose Exterior Fixtures

Identify Your Goals

The exterior lights you choose will depend on what you’re trying to achieve. Common goals include compensating for insufficient lighting and showcasing a manicured landscape.

In another instance, you may work late and keep the outdoor fixtures on for long periods of time. This can take a toll on your electricity bill, but you can save money with LED bulbs. Connecticut Lighting Centers has a variety of efficient LED fixtures that consume less energy and can withstand the elements.

No matter your lighting goals, our showroom experts can help steer you in the right direction.

What’s Your House Style?

The type of home you have will directly impact the outdoor lighting you choose. To maintain your curb appeal, it’s important to select fixtures that complement your house, whether it’s a Colonial, Cape Cod or bungalow style. For example, if you live in a traditional style home, classic lighting will likely match better than overtly modern fixtures.

Also consider the home’s color and accent features. If you have brickwork, finishes like bronze and copper are a good complement. For darker tones like gray exterior paint, choose chrome or black finishes.

Understand Exposure

In general, there are three kinds of locations where we use lights: dry, damp and wet. Fixtures are rated dry, damp or wet by the independent Underwriter’s Laboratory. As the name implies, dry-rated lights should be used indoors where there is no moisture or wetness. How do you choose between damp and wet-rated exterior lighting?

Damp-Rated Fixtures

If an area is exposed to moisture, but does not come in direct contact with water, you can safely use a damp-rated light. These areas may include a screened-in or covered porch.

Wet-Rated Fixtures

For areas that have no coverage – like your garden or front yard – use wet-rated fixtures that can function in snow, ice, rain or sleet.
 
Whether you’re shopping around for post lanterns to line the driveway or wall lanterns for outside the garage, Connecticut Lighting Centers is your source for outdoor lighting. Visit our Hartford or Southington showroom to browse the largest inventory in New England!