Outdoor Patio Lights

I became enchanted with effects of outdoor lighting while meandering the winding streets of Salzburg, Austria one evening. The concepts seemed so simple but the effect was magnificent. Since that night, I have become an enthusiast of outdoor patio lights and outdoor lighting of all types. I really don't think the impact of well designed outdoor lights can be over estimated.

At my own home I arrange and re-arrange my outdoor patio lights all the time. I have a great time doing it and have had moderate success. I regularly have friends or neighbors compliment my lighting schemes and in the biggest form of flattery I have numerous people ask me for help when deciding upon their own outdoor patio lights.

In choosing your lights there are a few things you should always think about. The most important thing to think about is placement. For issues of security, lights need to be by each door of your house at a minimum. These light should give off a good clear white light and you may want them to be activate by motion. If you use your outdoor patio lights for special effects, the lights can be placed the base of a trees shining up into the branches. Rope lights can be used to highlight tree trunks.

There are numerous types of outdoor patio lights available in stores these days. If you look at the web sites of popular hardware stores you will get a quick idea of the variety. The most popular and energy efficient are LED lights. There are also more and more varieties of solar lights. The technology of solar lights isn't great. Powerful solar lights are often very expensive. These lights work best as mood lighting and should not be counted upon for function.

You should also put some thought into the purpose of the outdoor patio lights. What are you trying to achieve with the lighting? Are you trying to address safety and security concerns around your home or are you trying to create a romantic atmosphere in which to enjoy a glass of wine. You should make a list of reasons you want these lights and then make sure you chose lights that serve your purposes.

Whatever you do, you should try a number of different arrangements for your outdoor patio lights. Each different arrangement will give your outdoor living space a different and new feel.