4 Landscape Lighting Types

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

20 Jun 2008 10:48 AM

Outside lighting is one of the newest trends in curb appeal of a home. Once used for safety and security, landscape lighting now also serves to enhance your home. If you are ready to take on some landscape lightening, you'll want to know all about the four most popular lighting types. Here they are.

Tier Lighting

Tier lighting usually contains multiple levels or pyramid shapes. Think of a small post that has a small hanging lantern from it. Tier lighting casts light over small areas and can be used for narrow paths and level walkways. They are usually available as staked fixtures made of plastic or metal, and they are 12 inches tall or less.

Spread Lighting

The next size up from tiered lighting is spread lighting. Spread lighting usually consists of a shaded lamp on a post. It casts a large, circular area of light on the ground. Spread lighting is great for lighting up pathways or lighting up border plants. Spread lighting is usually made from metal, teak or a combination, and it features a stake with an umbrella shade. The height is 14 to 24 inches tall.

Lantern Lighting

There are so many options with lantern lighting, from lanterns that hang off of hooks to those that are on posts. There is even portable lantern lighting. The features of lantern lighting include a bulb set into a case that is usually made of clear or frosted glass. Lantern lighting is usually used to mark the end of a path or a driveway, to highlight a garden bench or patio table, or just as decoration.

Spotlight Lighting

When you want a targeted beam of light, you have to go for spotlight lighting. This type of lighting features a swiveling fixture that can be aimed. Spotlight lighting is best for highlighting detail, such as architectural features or landscaping. I've seen spotlighting aimed at front doors, although the light tends to be a bit harsh for that application. You can mount a spotlight up high on a house or a porch to create a wash of overhead light.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. Starting June 1st, don't miss her articles in the Baby Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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