Your patio is an extension of your home. You want to be as comfortable there as you do inside the house. Here are some of the many options for your outdoor lamps.
You might not think about lighting at first because you enjoy your patio during the day but what about at night? You could be missing out on some entertaining patio time by moving indoors one the sun goes down.
What are the characteristics of outdoor lamps? Well, it has to be durable. In the elements, you don’t want rusting or even shorts in your lighting plugs. Choose patio lighting that has well insulated plugs, covers over the light bulbs and are created out of durable materials that won’t fade or rust in the elements.
Solar Lighting
Use the sun for more than warming your body. Solar lighting fixtures around your patio can harness the sun’s rays for a wonderful evening of light. The benefits of solar:
• Energy efficient
• Easy to maintain
• No bulbs to replace
• Decorative
Most of the time you see those staked lawn solar lights but you can purchase taller lights so that you can have the benefit of lighting your entire patio area.
Outdoor Floor Lamps
Most houses have outdoor sockets just made for patio lighting. These can be floor model outdoor wicker lamps or even table lamps. If you are going for atmosphere and economy of space, floor lamps can be moved where you need them and also give off more light to an area than a table lamp.
Outdoor lighting has the advantage of being weather resistant. Choose lights that specify that they are made of “all-weather” wicker so you know you are getting UV protected lamps.
Lighting Fixtures
If you already have lighting outdoors then you can change the look of it with new lighting fixtures and covers. Whether you like modern, contemporary or traditional there are great choices that will match your other furnishings.
Other lighting Options
You don’t have to use bulbs at all if you don’t want to. Tabletop gel fireplaces or wicker candle stands allow for outside lighting whenever you want it. You can create a romantic mood for two or just a way to meditate and unwind in the evening.
A few last words….
With all outdoor lamps you want to be careful. Always take precautions when you are done on the patio.
• Unplug patio lamps
• Extinguish candles and other flames
• Be sure to observe voltage and wattage restrictions so you don’t blow bulbs or melt cords
There are several kinds of lighting for outdoor use. Depending on your needs, one of these may be right for the atmosphere you want to create.