Light Post Landscaping Ideas
Q: What does “suitable for damp locations” mean?
A: Suitable for damp locations means that a fixture can be used indoors, but should not be used in areas where it would have direct contact with water. The primary indoor example would of course be the bathroom. Damp simply means it can be around water, but not directly exposed. In the context of using a damp rated fixture outdoors it means it cannot be exposed directly to water even during a storm so it needs to be in a covered patio or something similar.
Q: How does one choose outdoor lighting?
A: Ideal outdoor lighting should be a blend of security/safety and curb appeal. Just like lighting in the home, it works better when considered in layers. You want to combine several lighting layers for security or safety, plus incorporate accent lighting such as spotlights, strip lights and water-feature lighting. Outdoor lighting can enhance the features of your home, putting your landscaping, beautiful deck and more in the spotlight.
Q: What does UL listed lighting mean?
A: UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listed is a rating based on the nationally recognized standards of safety for a the lighting product. There are three different UL listings – Dry, Damp, Wet. Dry means the lighting can be in an indoor area that’s not normally subject to dampness. Damp means is the product can be around moisture, but not directly exposed to it. Finally, a wet rating means it’s suitable for outdoor locations that receive direct rain, snow or excessive moisture.
Q: Can outdoor lighting be used indoors?
A: Of course, if a light can stand up to the rigors of the outdoors it can handle a more tame inside environment. In fact, there is something of a trend toward outdoor lighting being used indoors. This kind of lighting is often less expensive than a chandelier and it can be more in keeping with an industrial theme in the home.
Q: How big should outdoor lights be?
A: A quick rule to keep in mind is that the height of your outdoor fixture should be based on the height of the door or opening. With one fixture the piece should be approximately a third of the height of the door. With two fixtures on either side of a door, you can go slightly smaller, about one quarter. People commonly underestimate the size of the fixture they need.
