Lighting

Deck lighting is an important safety feature and one of the most imperative design elements. Deck lighting allows a homeowner to enjoy the outdoors or host guests on a deck long after sundown. Lighting for a deck can be mounted to a house, to the deck or built in directly to the railings.

If you have stairs on your deck it is wise to have a light on the stairs for you and your guest's safety. Lighting is normally specified by local building codes so do refer to it to ensure you meet the correct requirements.

Standard voltage and low voltage lighting are two options. Low voltage lighting is easier to install, is often less expensive and although the components can be purchased separately there are also kits available to ensure you will have everything you need for installation.

Light fixtures can be secured to your house or deck. Popular light fixtures today are made of metal, bronze, copper and plastics.

Floodlights are popular and many buy them so they operate either by a switch or by a motion sensor. Motion sensors are great in minimize energy costs.

Lanterns and torches are great for a backyard or a patio setting. They don't involve electricity and can truly create a cozier ambience. Lighting that has fire is often not recommended for wood and should always be carefully placed and observed to minimize the danger of fire.

Landscape or garden lighting that is placed in among the flowers or shrubbery in any garden has a great nighttime effect and is also aesthetically appealing in the daytime.