security lighting
Security lighting should be at the top of your list. Patios are often at the rear of a property. If you store outdoor equipment under the patio cover, or have an expensive barbecue or patio furniture, do you really want someone to walk up to your backyard and walk away with some free gains? No, of course not, so why make it easy for him?
A few security lights will deter casual trespassers and make it impossible for anyone to sniff around under cover of darkness. Install motion sensor security lights in each corner of your yard. You can turn them off if you’re having a meeting and don’t need super-bright halogen lights, but leave the security lights on the rest of the time.
task lighting
Do you like to cook under the cover of your patio or are you more likely to curl up with a
good book and a glass of wine? Either way, task lighting is essential. Install a bright LED light above a cooking area so you can safely grill food or prepare snacks. For bookworms, a small reading lamp in a dark corner is a good idea.
Some people use their patio to play games, such as billiards or table tennis. Again, lighting is important as playing in the dark isn’t much fun unless you enjoy a challenge!
decorative lighting
Don’t discount the idea of ​​decorative lighting. There are some amazing lights to choose from, including opulent chandeliers and beautiful net lights for a canopy ceiling. Let your creativity run wild and think about what kind of look you are trying to achieve.
Do you have plants you want to display or maybe you have some nice sculptures in the yard? If so, highlight them with spotlights or hang decorative lanterns for added visual appeal. There’s a lot you can do with decorative lighting.
solar lighting
Some lights must be connected to the main electrical circuit, but if you want to add decorative lighting on the cheap, look into solar lights. Solar lights draw their energy from ultraviolet light and will work well around the perimeter of a patio. Hang solar string lights along the edge of your patio and plant potted solar post lights. It’s a cheap way to light up a patio at night.
Experiment with different types of lighting to find something that works best with your decorating scheme. And remember, if you want to add lights to an existing electrical circuit, hire a qualified electrician to do the job.