Choosing Lighting
Fixtures for the Landscape & Pond
Once the decision
has been made on what areas and features to light,
fixtures must be selected. Low voltage lights come
in a variety of materials, finishes, shapes and sizes.
Most landscape
lights will be constructed of plastic or metal, although
a few are made of wood, glass and other materials.
Consumer grade plastic lights are subject to UV and
freeze damage and are generally short lived. A
better investment are architectural grade metal lights,
often available in more than one finish. It should
be noted, however, that not all metal lights are
of equal quality. Simply tap on a metal fixture sold
at a home improvement superstore and one sold at
a lighting specialty shop, and the difference becomes
obvious. High-end copper fixtures are also available
which look extremely classy in the landscape but
are more costly.
Pathway or walkway
lights are typically
used to line one or both sides of a path. The distance
between lights will depend on the model of light
chosen and the desired brightness level. Some pathway
lights cast light in a full circle, while others
cast light only to one side. Some will also illuminate
a larger horizontal area than others.
Accent lights can
be placed throughout the garden to highlight rocks
and plantings, or just provide points of interest
in the landscape at night. Usually lower wattage
fixtures are preferred.
Up-lighting of
trees, rock walls , etc. can dramatically punctuate
the night display. Well
lights are recessed in
the ground and shine straight up while spotlights and floodlights are
often (but not always) movable and adjustable.
To light a fence
line, deck rail or stairway riser, surface mount
or recessed deck
lights are the tidiest
choice.
Many fixtures
will also accept a lower wattage bulb to make the
lighting more subtle or reduce energy consumption.
Because even small
variations between lighting fixture models can produce
remarkably different results, it is advisable to
visit a landscape lighting supplier where lit models
are on display or ask your contractor to set up demonstration
models before making final decisions.
Remember, it is
not just the look of the feature that is important,
but also the pattern and brightness of light cast.
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