Landscape lighting can transform your home’s exterior, adding beauty, safety, and curb appeal. However, when outdoor lighting is installed improperly, it can detract from your home’s appearance or fail to serve its intended purpose. At DeFazio Company in North Royalton, OH, we’ve seen our fair share of common lighting mistakes. Here’s a guide to help you avoid four commion pitfalls and make the most of your outdoor lighting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Outdoor Lighting

1. Overlooking the Lighting Design

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is not planning a thoughtful lighting design. Simply placing a few random lights around your yard is unlikely to yield the best results. Instead, consider the areas you want to illuminate, such as walkways, trees, architectural features, or outdoor living spaces. A well-thought-out plan ensures that your lighting not only enhances your home’s beauty but also provides adequate safety and security.

2. Using Too Many or Too Few Lights

Striking the right balance in the number of fixtures is crucial. Too many lights can make your yard look overexposed and artificial, while too few may leave it looking dark and underwhelming. Focus on highlighting key areas and use lighting sparingly to create a natural and inviting atmosphere. A layered approach, using a mix of uplighting, downlighting, and path lighting, can add depth and dimension to your landscape.

3. Placing Fixtures Too Close Together

Spacing is important when it comes to outdoor lighting. Placing fixtures too close together can result in a cluttered and overly bright look. Instead, position lights with enough distance between them to create a balanced and evenly lit landscape. For example, path lights should be spaced to gently guide the eye, not overwhelm it. Thoughtful spacing can make your lighting design look intentional and elegant.

4. Neglecting to Consider Glare

Improperly installed lighting can cause unwanted glare, which is not only unpleasant but also unsafe. To avoid this, angle lights carefully to ensure they illuminate the intended area without shining directly into people’s eyes. Shielded fixtures or lights that can be adjusted for direction are great options for minimizing glare and creating a soft, inviting glow.

Avoiding these common mistakes can help you achieve a beautiful and functional outdoor lighting design. At DeFazio Company, we specialize in creating custom landscape lighting solutions for homeowners in North Royalton, OH, and surrounding areas. Our team of experts can help you design and install a lighting system that enhances your home’s beauty and adds value to your property. Contact us today at (440) 652-6545 to learn more or request an estimate online.