A well-designed landscape lighting system will do more than beautify your property. It can also help prevent potential intruders and make your home a haven for you and your loved ones.
One of the leading causes of night accidents is poor visibility. By illuminating steps, backyards, walkways, porches, and driveways, you can eliminate dangerous blind spots and prevent accidents.
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Deterring Burglars
Burglary is a common concern among homeowners, but the proper outdoor lighting can make it much harder for thieves to access and enter a home. Bright lights around the property can clear out shadows and dark spots where criminals tend to hide, exposing them to neighbors, passing cars, or surveillance cameras.
Experts recommend combining different lighting types and intensities, including accent and path lights, to provide safety and security. Aim for bulb brightness in the 800-900 lumens range, allowing you to lighten outdoor spaces effectively and highlight architectural features.
Clever crooks will notice the consistent activity and may suspect that someone is home. That’s why it’s best to use timers for indoor and outdoor lights to mimic natural behavior while keeping homes safe.
Enhancing Visibility
While deterring crime is a crucial aspect of home security, the benefits of well-planned landscape lighting extend far beyond. It creates a safer environment for everyone who uses your outdoor space, not just protecting against intruders.
Another great way to keep your property safe is by installing perimeter lighting, which will discourage burglars from approaching your house. It’s especially effective when paired with motion sensor lights to provide optimal protection for your home and family. As a bonus, this type of lighting also improves the look of your home and increases its value. So, if you’re considering selling your property in the future, adding security lighting is an intelligent investment.
Preventing Accidents
A well-lit home is a psychological barrier that deters burglars, vandals, and other unwanted visitors. However, security lighting is more than just a deterrent—it also prevents accidents that could compromise your safety and the safety of your family and guests.
Consider local regulations and guidelines regarding outdoor lighting before you begin a lighting installation project. Some areas have restrictions on light intensity or hours of operation, while others have guidelines about minimizing light trespass onto neighboring properties or public spaces. Consider consulting your neighborhood or HOA covenants for any specific guidance that applies to you and your property.
Adding a Personal Touch
Professionals recommend utilizing lighting of varying intensities and color temperatures to create layers of light that serve different purposes. For example, accent lighting can highlight architectural features or landscape elements, while a set of dimmable path lights illuminates walkways and stairs for safety.
A well-lit property is a deterrent for burglars, who may think twice about entering a home when they know it’s being watched. However, security lighting should be brighter than it blinds neighbors or reflects onto windows and doors. It’s also essential to ensure that security lights are positioned above the cameras’ field of view to prevent light pollution and avoid glare that could compromise camera performance.
Because it simplifies navigating walkways and stairs, outdoor lighting can help minimize trips and falls, which are a significant source of injuries during the night. With the proper lighting, you can eliminate hazards like hoses, garden gnomes, and decorative pots that can easily cause injuries.