Summer is here and that means more time spent outdoors enjoying your garden, hosting barbecues or simply unwinding with a drink as the sun goes down. But is your outdoor lighting ready to make the most of the long evenings?
Great outdoor lighting doesn’t just add beauty to your home, it creates a welcoming atmosphere, boosts security and lets you enjoy your outdoor space long after sunset. Here’s how to make sure your garden lights are summer-ready.
Check for Wear and Tear
Outdoor lights go through a lot – from wind and rain to frosty winters. Now’s the time to give them a quick inspection. Look for rust, cracks or broken fittings. Check cables and wiring for damage, especially if you’ve had lights in storage over winter. Replace any tired fixtures with modern, weatherproof alternatives.
Tip: look for lighting with a minimum IP44 rating to ensure it's protected from splashes and dust.
Embrace Energy-Efficient Options
With longer evenings, your lights will be on more often but that doesn’t mean your energy bills have to go up. Switch to LED bulbs to cut down on running costs. They use less power and last for years. Opt for warm white LEDs for a soft, inviting glow that complements garden spaces beautifully, no harsh glare.
Try solar-powered lights for garden paths or decking – they charge by day and glow by night with no wiring required. They’re great for the environment and your wallet.
Get Creative!
How do you use your garden in summer? Whether it’s family dinners, garden parties or quiet evenings with a book, your lighting should match.
A good outdoor setup uses layered lighting, combining ambient, task and accent lighting, to give you both functionality and atmosphere. Here are a few ideas to inspire your space:
- Festoon lights: ideal for stringing across patios or between trees for a warm, party-style vibe.
- Wall-mounted uplighters: add a modern touch and can be used to highlight walls, trellises or tall plants.
- Recessed step lights: a stylish and practical option for lighting up garden stairs or decking edges.
- Outdoor chandeliers or pendant lights: hung over decking or outdoor dining areas, these make a real statement and add a touch of elegance.
- Mason jar lights: simple yet beautiful – hang them from branches or hooks for a rustic, homemade look.
- Lantern-style solar posts: add charm to pathways or borders with these classic-looking lights.
- Fire-inspired lighting: flame-effect bulbs or solar torches bring a cosy, campfire feel to your evenings, no smoke required.
- Underwater or floating lights for ponds: use dedicated waterproof LEDs to illuminate water features for a magical effect after dark.
- Spotlights on fountains or water features: highlight the movement and texture of flowing water to create a peaceful, spa-like atmosphere.
Layering lights means you can change the mood easily – brighten things up for entertaining or dial it down for a peaceful evening under the stars.
Clean and Maintain Your Lights
It might not be the most glamorous task but a quick clean can make a big difference. Wipe down glass covers and remove cobwebs or dirt. Replace any blown bulbs and make sure all fixtures are securely fixed. Clear plants or foliage that may be blocking light or touching cables.
Bonus: clean lights are brighter – you might find you don’t need to use as many!
Don’t Forget About Safety
Good lighting can prevent trips and falls around your property, especially around steps, paths or uneven ground. Use motion sensor lights for entrances, driveways and dark corners. Add path lights to make garden walkways safer and easier to navigate at night. Install bollard or spike lights to clearly mark borders and edges of flower beds or patios. This not only helps you, but is great for visiting friends, family or guests too.
Let Joe Newton Help You Light Up Your Garden
Whether you're looking to highlight a feature tree, light up a pathway or create a stylish entertainment space, Joe Newton Electrical, Plumbing and Heating Services can help bring your ideas to life. From full garden lighting design to the installation of a wide variety of garden lights, including security lights, decking lights, eco-friendly lighting, festoon lighting and water feature illumination, we have the skills and experience to create something truly special.Make the most of your outdoor space this summer with professionally designed and installed garden lighting.
Get in touch with Joe Newton today for a free consultation and no-obligation quote and enjoy your garden long after the sun goes down.
