Houston Landscapers Offer Lighting Advice

There is more than just one reason to add lighting to your landscape and different ways to achieve each.

A beautiful yard is just as important in Houston, Texas as it is anywhere else. Now, it may be a challenge to keep it looking fresh and green in those hot summer months, but if you have put in the effort for a attractive yard, you want to show it off.  Lighting can be an important part of any landscaping project. There is more than just one reason to add lighting to your landscape, and different ways to achieve those various outcomes.

Doug Perry, of Houston landscaping company Fresh Start, recommends three reasons to consider lighting when planning your landscaping project. When the sun goes down it may be difficult to see steps or walkways. Thus, lighting for safety is important. Your front porch light is rarely enough light to sufficiently see the way, so illumination at ground level is key.  Lighting for security is another must. There is a peace of mind that comes with lighting entry areas, driveways, and dark areas of your yard. These fixtures can provide constant lighting or have motion-sensors warding off any potential trespassers (whether human or animal).  Another common reason for lighting is lighting for effect. You can fully enjoy the beauty of your landscaping and architecture with up lighting, indirect accent illumination, and direct brightening effects.

There are several kinds of lights one can consider for any landscaping project, the following are a few of the more common types:

Flood lights are designed to cast light in one direction, typically used to highlight particular features of landscape or architecture. They also can be used for illuminating entrance ways and driveways for security.

Globe lights have a light enclosed in a globe without a metal shade. The result is a diffused illumination in all directions that is great for around spas or swimming pools, both for safety and aesthetics.

Well lights are buried in the ground and shine light upwards. This is perfect to light small trees from the bottom up.

Tier lights have tiers of rings that shield the eyes from the light and cast light downward. These lights are perfect for lighting pathways or stairs.

Mushroom lights can be used to light decorative ground cover as they have a wide shade to discretely hide the light bulb.

These days, most all of your lighting options are going to be economical and energy-efficient. Low voltage options don’t require complex wiring, but it takes planning. If you aren’t sure where to start, quality landscaping companies in Houston can perform a consultation to determine your needs. They can recommend proper wire, bulb and transformer sizing to provide the most efficient and proper lighting effects and can determine the best placement and adjustment of fixtures, wire and transformers. If planned correctly from the beginning, installation can be a snap and a professional landscaper should provide a warranty of parts and labor.