It’s officially the dog days of summer, and what better way to relax and enjoy the season than spending warm summer nights out on your deck! Once the sun goes down, you’ll need deck lighting in order to create the ideal space both for entertaining family and friends and for spending soothing solitary time outdoors.
Here are 8 ideas to help you create the perfect deck lighting for more delightful summer nights:
1. Deck Stair Lights
Installing deck lights along the rise of each step will not only provide subtle mood lighting, it will also help keep your deck stairs safer after dark.
Now everyone will be able to see exactly where each step is. Plus, they will have a beautifully illuminated walk as they enter and exit the deck.
2. Recessed Lighting
If your deck has overhead protection, you will enjoy recessed lighting shining down on you from above.
Recessed lights are ideal because they are protected from the weather and don’t need continual cleaning to look their best. Pro tip: install your recessed lights with a dimmer switch to control the level of illumination as the evening progresses from twilight to darkness.
3. Lighting Under Tables & Railings
Do you have an outdoor kitchen or grilling area? Then you will probably benefit from lights under your tables and work spaces to help you see all the tasks you need to perform.
Lights also work well under railings to create a steady glow for the entire deck area. Pro tip: try using solar bulbs for a soft, atmospheric illumination.
4. Deck Floor Lighting
Did you know it’s possible to place low voltage lighting right in your deck floor boards?
Try placing in-floor lights in corners or near seating or steps to brighten up the spaces where you and your guests will want more light.
5. Lanterns
If you want a quick and easy way to bring more light to any outdoor space, try lanterns.
Most lanterns today have battery-operated or solar bulbs, so you don’t have to worry about all the risks that come with candles. Many of these lanterns, though, are designed for a candlelight effect so you can have the best of both lighting styles.
6. String Lights
For a festive way to light up your deck, try string lights, which are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. String lights bring an immediate fun party-like atmosphere to your deck, and can provide lighting all around the perimeter.
If you have a pergola, try installing string lights in the rafters. These not only will light up the space underneath, they also beautifully accentuate the pergola structure.
7. Spotlights
Spotlights are good for directing light where you need it most.
If you have overhead protection, consider installing spotlights accompanied by outdoor ceiling fans. Not only do they add an elegant look to your outdoor space, the spotlight and air circulation can be practical necessities on otherwise dark, hot nights.
8. Solar Lighting
Sometimes all you really need is a solar light in just the right spot. Solar lights are generally affordable and easy to install – no fancy wiring necessary.
Solar lighting is also very versatile. You can place solar lights on deck posts, along walkways, and even plant them inside your planters to highlight your greenery.
For more deck lighting ideas, check out Going Lighting’s collection of outdoor lighting.