OUTDOOR LIGHTS FOR PATHS, PORCHES, AND PATIOS
Start with what you want people to see and where they need to walk. Light the ground for safety first, then add soft highlights on plants, stone, and doors so your home feels inviting from the curb to the back yard.
Plan by zone: Mark edges and walkways with path and step fixtures, use small spots to uplight trees and textures, and add low glare wall pieces by doors and along stairs. For a full overview of outdoor choices and wiring basics, read our guide to choosing outdoor lighting, then see real yard layouts in our landscape lighting how to.
Ratings and materials: Use damp rated fixtures in covered areas and wet rated where rain can reach the housing. Choose powder coated finishes and sealed lenses that resist corrosion. Keep fixtures away from standing water and seal connections so the system stays reliable.
Color and output: Warm white in the range of 2700 to 3000 K flatters wood and stone. Around 3500 K makes greenery read a bit crisper. Balance brightness by layer instead of relying on one very bright source so paths stay safe and planting beds feel calm.
Power and control: Low voltage systems give steady output and suit long runs in front yards and gardens. On porches and garages, line voltage fixtures with the correct rating work well. Add timers, photo sensors, or smart plugs so evenings stay hands free and energy use stays low.
Quick guidelines
- Front door sconces: mount about 66 to 72 inches from the ground and size each to roughly one quarter of the door height.
- Path spacing: place lights so pools of light overlap slightly, often every 6 to 8 feet depending on lens and output.
- Step lights: aim down and shield the source so eyes are not looking into glare.
- Tree uplight: aim from the trunk out and choose beam spreads that fill the canopy without hot spots.
- Porch ceilings: pick damp or wet rated fixtures and keep one color temperature across nearby lights.
Most orders include fast shipping and 20 day returns. Need help with beam spread, wattage, or a quick layout sketch? Our team can review your plan and recommend options.
