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What Are The Best Lights For Decking? Three Solar Deck Lights You Can Try
People like to have a deck in their garden because it provides a space for outdoor relaxation and entertaining, allows them to enjoy their backyard or garden in a comfortable and functional area, and adds aesthetic value to their property. Decks can also increase the living space of a home, provide a place to barbecue, host gatherings with friends and family, and create an environment to enjoy nature and fresh air.
A deck is typically a flat or slightly elevated platform or surface. Other common elements of a deck include railing, steps or ramps for access, and built-in seating or storage. Decks may be made of various materials, including wood, composite materials, or metal, and can be designed in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit the specific needs and preferences.
To make a gathering enjoyable, appropriate lighting is important. Here we introduce three types of solar lights and how they can be used to illuminate a deck:
#1. Solar String Lights – Ambient Lights for Decking
Solar string lights are considered ambient lights for decking because they provide a soft, warm and subtle lighting atmosphere. They emit a low level of light that creates a cozy and relaxed mood, adding to the overall ambiance of the decking area. They can also be used to highlight certain features or areas of the deck, while also providing enough illumination to allow for safe movement around the space. The flexibility of solar string lights makes it easy to arrange and customize the lighting to meet the specific needs and preference.
Solar string lights are popular choice and come in various styles and sizes. They can be hung along the railing or perimeter of the deck to enhance its ambiance. Here are a few popular ways.
1) Wrapped around railings or posts in a deck - this creates a warm, cozy glow along the edges of the deck.
Zigzag pattern: Wrap the lights back and forth across the railing or post in a zigzag pattern for a fun and playful look.
Spiral pattern: Wrap the lights in a spiral pattern for a unique and eye-catching display.
Weave pattern: Weave the lights in and out of the railing or post for a more intricate look.
2) Hanging from the ceiling of the deck - you can use hooks or rope to hang solar string lights from the deck's overhead structure, which can provide even lighting for the entire deck.
In a draping or cascading pattern, like a waterfall, for a dramatic and chic look.
In a geometric pattern, such as a triangle or square, for a modern and stylish look.
3) Draped along walls of a deck - this can help to highlight any decorative features on the walls, such as plants or artwork.
Vertical draping: Hang the lights vertically from the railing or post for a cascading effect.
Box pattern: Wrap the lights in a box pattern to create a frame around the railing or post.
#2. Solar Flood Lights – Accent Lights for Decking
A flood light is commonly used as an accent light for decking because it provides a bright and wide spread of light which highlights the features of the decking area and creates a visually appealing atmosphere. Additionally, the adjustable beam angle of many flood lights allows users to direct light where it is needed, which is useful for illuminating specific areas of the deck. The bright and wide spread of light also provides increased safety for the decking area.
Solar flood lights can be mounted on the deck's railing, posts, exterior walls or even on the ground to provide bright, directional light. Some popular locations for installing solar flood lights on a deck include:
Along the perimeter of the deck to provide general illumination and enhance security
On the corners of the deck to highlight specific areas or features
On a wall or post near the stairs to provide additional visibility and safety when walking up and down the steps
However, a flood light is a type of outdoor lighting fixture that produces intense beam of light to illuminate large areas and provide bright illumination. Floodlights have a strong sense of presence, so when using flood lights to illuminate a deck, the following should be considered:
Brightness: Choose the right brightness of light to meet your requirements. You don’t want to blind people or have too little light to see clearly.
Wattage: Select an appropriate wattage to ensure the light is not too bright or too dim.
Color temperature: Choose a color temperature that is appropriate for the setting and provides the desired ambiance.
#3. Solar Step Lights – Task Lights for Decking
Solar step lights are considered task lights for decking because they provide a focused and directed light source that illuminates a specific area, such as the steps. This helps to increase visibility and safety on the deck, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Solar step lights also serve as a functional lighting source, as they allow people to easily navigate the steps without tripping or falling.
They are a great option for illuminating the edges of steps and creating a safer walkway. Solar step lights can be installed in several locations on a deck, including:
Along the riser: Installing lights on the vertical surface of each step or at regular intervals can provide ample illumination for foot traffic.
On the tread: Placing lights on the horizontal surface of each step can highlight the edge of the step and make it easier to see.
Under the handrail: Lights installed under the handrail can provide both ambient light and a soft glow for safety and aesthetics.
When choosing lights for your deck, it's important to consider the overall design of your deck, as well as your lighting needs and preferences.
#4. Always Remember These Dos When Installing Lights In A Deck
Besides the decorating, there are several things you need to always pay attention on:
1) Power Source: Make sure the lights have a suitable power source and are properly grounded. If using solar deck lights, you need to make sure the solar panel is placed in a place with abundant sunlight.
2) Safety and Weather-Resistant: Choose lights that are weather-resistant and can withstand outdoor elements such as rain, snow, and wind.
3) Length and Spacing: Measure the length of the railing and post to determine the right length and spacing of the lights.
In conclusion, you should consider the type of lighting fixtures, their location, the color temperature, and the brightness level. You should also take into account the type of activities you'll be doing on your deck and whether you want a more ambient or a more focused lighting.
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