Choosing Waterproof Outdoor Wall Lights
Lighting is an important addition to any outdoor space and it can help you enjoy your garden into the night. However, picking the right lights can be confusing.
Waterproof outdoor wall lights are perfect for adding an inviting glow to your garden and making it safer at night. They can also come with handy features like programmable timers, movement sensors and daylight sensors.
Weather Resistant
Whether your home is situated in a cold or hot climate or you live near the coast, you need exterior lighting that will stand up to the elements. Choose UL wet-rated fixtures to ensure your lights can withstand snow, rain, and high temperatures and still function as intended. For added peace of mind, opt for a model with motion sensing features that turn on automatically when it detects movement at night.
A classic choice for your exterior design, outdoor wall lanterns and sconces are versatile and a timeless addition to any home. Many styles are crafted from metal and feature glass to create a charming ambiance. Some also include decorative accents to enhance your decor. Look for fixtures with a wide array of bulb options, including LED and incandescent, to suit your needs.
For a modern look, opt for a sleek wall-mounted sconce that fuses simple style with durability. This brushed steel fixture has an open frame and a matte black hue for a refined yet minimal appearance. Showcase a decorative Edison-style bulb in this light fixture for a classic lighting effect. Complete your space with a dusk-to-dawn sensor and energy-efficient LED light to boost your security and save on your electricity bill. Other features like timers and dimmable options allow you to adjust your outdoor lighting as needed.
Durable
The best outdoor wall lighting options are constructed with durable materials like aluminum, stainless steel, and plastic that hold up to rain, wind, snow, and other weather elements. Many models are compatible with LED bulbs to provide a bright, energy-efficient glow, while others feature halogen or Edison bulbs for a more traditional aesthetic. These waterproof outdoor wall lights fixtures also come in finishes such as oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, satin nickel, and white to complement a variety of exterior designs.
The Claverack Traditional Burnt Umber Wall Lantern offers a classic style that complements traditional home styles. Its cast aluminum construction and rust-resistant finish withstands harsh outdoor environments, while the frosted glass lampshade protects against debris and scratches. This UL-listed light is suitable for wet locations and features a dusk-to-dawn operation to illuminate areas of your patio, garden, corridor, entryway, or porch. Its Dark Sky compliant design ensures less light pollution for a relaxing ambiance night after night.
This unique outdoor wall lamp adds a captivating nautical flair to your deck, patio, or walkway. Its distinctive hourglass silhouette and intriguing wire cage details complement rustic, vintage, and contemporary decor styles. Pair it with wicker seating, blue and white-striped pillows, and rope accents to maintain the nautical theme. Its weather-resistant construction enables it to withstand harsh conditions, while the clear ribbed glass emits bold illumination upwards and downwards.
Energy-Efficient
While you’re shopping for outdoor wall lights, be sure to pay attention to the height of each fixture. Generally speaking, they should be installed at eye level or slightly above, typically around 65-75 inches from the ground. This ensures that they properly illuminate your space while also minimizing glare.
Another thing to keep in mind is the color temperature of the bulb. Measured in Kelvin, this rating determines the hue radiated by the light. Lights with lower ratings like 2700K produce a warm and inviting ambiance, while those with higher ratings, such as 5000K, emit a crisp and clean white hue that can help brighten up outdoor spaces.
Waterproof outdoor wall lights come in a variety of materials and finishes to complement your home’s exterior design. They’re also available in different brightness levels to meet your lighting needs. Some of the most common finishing options include bronze, brass, copper, iron, and oil-rubbed bronze. These materials can complement a variety of styles, from classic to contemporary.
Additionally, some waterproof outdoor wall lights are equipped with functionality features that can enhance your curb appeal and convenience. For example, many are equipped with motion sensors to deter potential criminals and can automatically illuminate your porch, driveway, entryway, or backyard at dusk. Others can be set to operate on timers, and smart models that sit within the Philips Hue ecosystem allow you to control them with your smartphone app.
Easy to Install
Some models are smart home compatible and come with all the mounting hardware you need. They also feature finishes like oil-rubbed bronze, black, or satin nickel for waterproof outdoor wall lights a beautiful look. Some even have features like a motion sensor and dusk-to-dawn functionality.
If you are installing a new light, it’s best to hire a professional electrician. The installer will be able to determine whether you can add the light to existing wiring by splicing wires or adding another junction box. If there’s already a light fixture nearby, the new sconce may be pigtailed into it.
Once you’ve found a place to install the sconce, make sure to shut off the power at the electrical box with a breaker or fuse before starting work. Use a utility knife to strip the sheathing on each of the three wires, and then use wire strippers to expose 3/4-inch of the bare copper cable. Connect the white and black wires to each other, then connect the red (hot) and green (ground) wires to the corresponding connections on the new fixture.
Sconces with simple lines and sleek designs go well with any exterior style. For a more attention-grabbing design, try a torch-style fixture, which is made to resemble the old-fashioned torch you might find in a castle. These are best paired with flickering bulbs to really create the full effect.
