Lighting Solutions to Illuminate Your Deck Posts

A beautifully lit deck can transform an outdoor space from drab to dramatic. Strategically placed lighting on deck posts and railings creates ambiance for evening entertaining, illuminates stairways for safety, and accentuates your deck's architectural details. With a variety of fixture styles and lamp types to choose from, you can design a unique lighting plan that enhances your deck's look and function after sunset.

Let's shed some light on creative ways to show off your deck's full potential after dark!

Purpose of Deck Post Lighting

Deck post lighting serves several important purposes:

• Aesthetic - Post lights highlight your deck's design and architecture. Path lighting along railings and risers illuminates the "bones" of your deck. Ambient lighting sets the mood for evening gatherings.
• Functional - Task lighting improves visibility on stairways, ramps, and other elevation changes for safety. Accent lighting makes cooking and dining easier.
• Security - Bright, glare-free post lighting deters criminals and helps prevent accidents. Motion-activated lights add another layer of protection.

Proper lighting transforms your deck from a daytime-only space to one you can utilize and enjoy well into the evening hours. It extends the usefulness of your investment in a deck. Strategic lighting attracts attention to decorative details and makes the space more inviting for guests.

Factors to Consider in Planning Your Lighting

Achieving your ideal lighting scheme starts with assessing a few key factors:

• Location and size - Larger decks and high-traffic areas need more lighting. Factor in trees and other structures that may cast shadows or block light.
• Deck layout - Post placement and railing configuration impact lighting needs.
• Power sources - Hardwired, plug-in, solar and battery options exist.
• Weatherproofing - Moisture resistance is a must.
• Budget - Hardwired systems cost more for installation.
• Personal tastes - Mix colored, patterned and ambient lighting for drama.
• Lighting needs - Task lighting aids cooking or wayfinding. Ambient lighting sets a relaxed mood.

Evaluation of these factors will guide your equipment purchases and placement for maximum effect.

Types of Deck Post Lights

Several varieties of lighting fixtures can illuminate your deck posts beautifully:

Hardwired or Solar Power

Hardwired lights tap into your home's electrical system and may require an electrician for code-compliant installation. Solar fixtures run on battery power recharged through built-in solar panels that absorb sunlight. Solar lights involve simpler installation, while hardwired systems provide more lighting power.

Bulb or Lamp Types

• LED - Long-lasting bulbs ranging from warm to cool light.
• Incandescent - Warm light but shorter bulb life.
• Halogen - Bright, sparkling light output.
• CFL - Cool light tones but contains mercury.

We recommend LED lighting for deck posts because of impressive longevity, energy efficiency, and flexible color temperatures.

Fixture Styles

• Post cap fixtures - Attach to tops of posts for downlighting.
• Sconces - Wall mount fixtures to up-light posts.
• Path lights - Small, low-voltage fixtures to line stairs and railings.
• Spotlights - Direct focused beams of light.
• Step lights - Recessed riser lighting.
• String lights - Wrapped around posts for soft glow.

Mix and match fixture styles to achieve a custom lighting design.

Power and Voltage

• Low voltage (12V landscape lighting)
• Plug-in (120V standard household current)
• Solar charged battery packs (varying degrees of brightness)

Choose lighting voltage based on safety, code requirements, and ease of installation.

Finish Styles

• Contemporary: Sleek metals like brushed steel or chrome.
• Classic: Oil-rubbed bronze, textured iron.
• Rustic: Blackened, distressed metal fixtures.
• Coastal: Weathered copper and brass.
• Relaxed: Woven shades, natural materials.

Match the style to your home's architecture and outdoor living space aesthetic.

Creative Lighting Techniques

Use these tricks of the trade to maximize your deck's wow factor after dark:

Uplighting vs. Downlighting

Uplighting placed at the base of posts creates dramatic shadows and highlights details. Downlighting from overhead casts a more even glow. Blend the two techniques for depth and dimension.

Alternating Illuminated Posts

Lighting every other post intersperses bright columns with shadowed ones for visual interest. It also reduces energy use compared to lighting each post.

Reflectors

Strategically placed reflectors bounce and amplify light. Use to prevent dark spots or evenly distribute light across a larger area.

Colored Bulbs

Colored LED bulbs add pops of color. Accent certain architectural features or lights. Set a festive tone with colors like red or green.

Layering Light

Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth. Ambient washes entire areas in light. Task lights illuminate walking paths. Accents highlight focal points.

Creative Touches

Opt for patterned lamp shades or fixtures for whimsy. Wrap string lights around posts in zig zags. Use lighting to express your unique style.

Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation and care ensure your deck lighting performs optimally for years to come.

Professional Installation

Reputable electricians properly wire and mount fixtures to code for safety. Most also provide lighting plans and site evaluations.

DIY Wiring Tips

• Use cable rated for outdoor use
• Weatherproof all connections
• Bury cables at correct depth
• Follow electrical codes for your area

Improper wiring risks fires, electrocution and equipment damage. When in doubt, hire a professional.

Hardwired vs. Plug-In

Hardwired lights involve wiring into your electrical system. Plug-ins simply connect to outdoor receptacles. Choose based on installation complexity and your needs.

Timers and Dimmers

Programmable timers automatically turn lights on/off on set schedules for convenience. Dimmers allow manual light level control for setting the perfect ambiance.

Weather Protection

Look for fixtures rated "damp" or "wet" location. Seal any wiring connections and openings. Check seals and housing regularly for water intrusion.

Maintenance

• Clean fixtures with mild, non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths.
• Replace burnt out bulbs promptly to maintain lighting designs.
• Recharge solar batteries and replace as needed.
• Watch for signs of wiring deterioration and damage.

Routine maintenance keeps your lighting looking its best and functioning properly for safety.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

Outdoor lighting ranks among the largest electrical uses for homes. Minimize energy consumption and costs through strategic approaches:

LED vs. Incandescent Bulbs

Energy-sipping LED bulbs last years longer than inefficient incandescents. The long lifespan also saves on bulb replacement costs.

Solar vs. Low Voltage

Solar lighting draws energy from the sun, reducing grid dependence. Low voltage systems use less electricity and simplify installations.

Light Placement

Position fixtures to precisely illuminate only desired spaces, not beyond. This efficient approach prevents waste.

Smart Lighting Controls

Controls like occupancy sensors, timers, and dimmers maximize efficiency. Program lights for real usage patterns.

Do the Math

Calculate costs of lighting options to make selections providing desired brightness at the lowest operating cost.

Inspiring Design Ideas

Need a spark of inspiration? Browse these eye-catching deck lighting designs:

• Line stair risers with LED strip lighting for an inviting glow.
• Spotlight Greco-Roman columns for dramatic impact.
• Up-light posts to mimic moonlight.
• Use blue lights under railings for a poolside vibe.
• Sync colors to music for parties.
• Cross string lights between posts for a whimsical criss-cross pattern.
• Illuminate the deck floor with recessed lighting.
• Hide ground lights among landscape plants to shine on posts.

Let your creativity shine! Lighting presents a fun opportunity to highlight your home's architecture and express your personal flare.

Safety Considerations for Deck Lighting

Proper lighting improves deck safety in several key ways:

Preventing Glare

Excessively bright lights produce glare, reducing visibility of walking surfaces. Opt for numerous low-level lights instead of a few harsh fixtures.

Minimizing Shadows

Shadowed areas hide tripping hazards and other navigation obstacles. Broad, even lighting distribution reduces dark patches.

Marking Elevation Changes

Illuminate the leading edge of any steps, ramps or level changes. This identifies these tripping dangers after dark.

Path Illumination

Line walking routes with low-voltage path lighting to safely guide visitors. This also defines the intended path.

Emergency Lighting

Battery-backup lighting kicks in when the main lights fail. Helpful during power failures at night.

Careful planning provides ample visibility without excessive brightness. Your deck stays sicher after sundown with appropriate lighting.

Costs and Budgeting for Deck Post Lighting

Deck lighting costs vary based on:

• Fixtures - From $25 up to $200+ per light.
• Installation - Hardwired systems average $800-$1,200 for installation.
• Energy usage - Operating costs range from a few cents/month for LEDs up to $40+/month for halogens.
• DIY savings - You save 20-30% typically by installing yourself.

Prioritize essential safety lighting first, then add ambient and decorative touches as your budget allows. Mix affordable solar lights with splurge spots on key architectural features.

Popular Brands and Products

Some top manufacturers of quality deck post lighting include:

• Kichler - High-end decorative and landscape lighting.
• Progress Lighting - Broad range of indoor and outdoor fixtures.
• Beachside Lighting - Coastal, nautical styled lights.
• Brinkman - Affordable solar spotlights and pathway lights.
• Starlite - Low voltage landscape lighting systems.
• Unique Lighting Systems - Custom lighting designs.

When comparing products, calculate costs over the fixture's lifespan to determine real value. Quality LED bulbs make the biggest impact on long-term costs.

The right deck post lighting entices you to linger on your deck long after sunset. Beautiful illumination transforms your deck into an inviting focal point for evening enjoyment. A thoughtfully planned lighting design highlights your deck's architecture, ensures safety after dark, sets the perfect mood, and expresses your unique style.

This guide explored the many options for selecting fixtures, bulbs and power sources to showcase your deck in the best possible light. We covered designing lighting schemes to enhance aesthetics, safety and energy efficiency. With this knowledge in hand, you can craft creative lighting that makes your deck shine any time of day or night.