Different types of landscape lighting

There are several types of different landscape lighting to choose from. Below we will discuss the most popular options.

Path lighting is by far the most popular landscape lighting. This type lighting comes in many different styles and is used to primarily light up walkways or front entry ways leading to the house. Most path lighting consist of a 2 to 2 1/2 watt led bulb in a fixture that is typically 18-24" high. The taller the fixture is the wider the coverage of light. You can use path lighting to lighten up low lying plants as well as stonework at ground level. You usually want to stager the path lighting and space out every 5 to 10 feet. Try to keep the lights in mulch or garden beds as much as possible so there wont be any need to weed eat around the light fixture.

Up lighting or bullet lights are also very common. This type of light, if led comes in a 4 or 5 watt bulb. Some of the fixtures can be adjusted for a wider beam to highlight a broader area. Up lighting is used to highlight the front of the house or different trees and shrubs. Up lighting fixtures need to be 12 to 18 inches away from trees or shrubs in order not to create a "hot spot" area. You will want to hide the fixture behind a plant if all possible to be more visually appealing. Its common to use several lights to highlight larger plants and trees with one light shining on the trunk and the other on the various branches.

​Wash light is used to highlight larger areas with a softer light. Generally these lights are more expensive and typically range from 4 to 5 watt for led.  Wash lights are great for highlighting horizontal areas such as signs or rock facings that require more light for a broader area.

Down lights or moon lights are designed to hang upside down in trees and create a "moon light" effect in and around the area. This light is great to use when highlighting surrounding patios and decks that need extra light. Usually these will use a blue filter tint to create a more realistic look. These lights also come in a 4 to 5 watt led bulb.

Well lights are 4 to 5 watt led lights that are flush level with the grass or soil. These lights are typically used when there is need to mow over the light fixture. These lights are very durable and have thicker glass. Well lights highlight areas such as shrubs and trees.

Specialty lights - These lights usually consist of hardscape lights or aquatic lights. Hardscape lights are generally installed during new installation. These lights highlight patios and walls for a more visually appealing look. Aquatic lights are used for koi pond and other water features. They are used to highlight the beauty of the water or a waterfall.

​Do you live in the Greenville SC area & want to learn more about landscaping lighting?

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