Exterior wall lighting: Some techniques and tips to know about

One such aspect that can be introduced in the home to enhance its environment and appeal is exterior wall lighting. It is found to be more challenging and effectual than assume and is sure to change the surface perception or the whole house. But achieving the same is not as easy as it is assumed to be. Certain techniques are to be employed for achieving the desired visual effect on the space outdoors or on the wall.



Wall washing

It is regarded to be the best way to light up wall decors and large wall and that too with even illumination distribution. This method’s focal point is that it helps to flatted out the textured surfaces. Hence, it is used strategically to cover up all wall imperfections found and lighten up specific hanging decorations, artworks, stairwells and shelves. Unless there is desired some bouncing reflection or flattened surface look, it is better to avoid wall washing on glossy and textured walls. If more lighting is required, then more lights need to be spaced closer to avail much stronger and even lighting levels.

Grazing

Quite similar to wall washing, its objective is to carry out even lighting spread upon the walls. This is achieved without actually eliminating the textured surfaces and walls beauty. LED wall lights have been termed as illuminators which performs wonderfully the grazing effect. LEDs besides being proper lighting source is also termed as low energy systems that can be left lighting up the brick wall for several hours every night, without having to worry about inflated bills. Dark stones, stucco, bricks and rustic walls can be improved with such lighting effect.

Spotlighting techniques

It is achieved with wall lighting at the outdoor space. Small landscape, sculptures, plants, structures and various exterior features can accentuate the patio or garden with the use of spot reflectors. It is a wonderful landscape lighting which is found to be quiet ideal to install LED wall lighting units. LEDs unlike that of the traditional halogen and incandescent lamps produce just light without the heat element. Hence, they appear and remain cool all the time and also make the environment cool. It is this particular aspect that tends to make them ideally suitable for landscape lighting and can also be placed close to plants.

Visual impact can be added to the wall outdoors with light scallops. By using more diffused lighting, it is possible to have soft scallop effect depending upon individual preference. If soft effect is desired, then there can be used reflector lamp. More defined scallops can be derived on the walls with PAR lamp.

The different types of external wall lights available in the market offer different purposes and effects on the decks, porches and gardens. Prior to shopping wall light online to use in the outdoor areas, it will be necessary to identify the desired effect. Therefore, by understanding these techniques, it will really help to improve the looks of the exterior spaces using the most appropriate light settings.