With America's growing passion for outdoor living, decks are growing in popularity. In addition to extending the living area of your home, decks increase property value. They also offer flexibility for homes built on terrain with variances of levels and slopes.
Deck lighting is an integral part of your overall deck design. If you are working with a contractor , the lighting will be part of the project and your contractor is an excellent source of information and expertise in creating effective deck lighting. If you are either building your deck yourself, or changing existing lighting, here are main things to consider:
Safety First
When your deck is illuminated for night use, it's vitally important that you, your family, and your guests are safe. Lighting on steps and those leading from seating and cooking areas into the home is critical. When people are relaxing and/or entertaining , where to step needs to be clear and well lit. If cords or wires are not hidden within the design of the deck, they must be placed and secured so there is no chance of anyone tripping on them.
Easy on the Eyes
Placement of lighting for conversation and dining pleasure is important. And if you cook outside, your grill and food staging areas need to be well lit. These different lighting needs call for different solutions. When seated, you and your guests want enough light to see one another, but fixtures should be placed so light isn't glaring or shining directly in peoples' face...
Read the full article in the CalFinder Remodeling and Home Solar Power Magazine
