Looking to light up your patio but want to know what options are available at what price points? The good news is that outdoor lighting has dozens of styles and applications that can help brighten your outdoor space. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best patio lighting options for your outdoor hangout spot. From subtle accent lighting to party-ready floodlights, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also point you towards the top retailers to find quality fixtures at affordable prices. Read on to learn how to turn your patio into an outdoor oasis with the right built-in lighting. It’s easier than you think.
Planning On Building a Patio Cover? Sort Your Lighting Out Right Away
If you’re building or renovating your patio, you can get the lighting installed right into the roof and walls. No need to faff about with solar panels or extension cords. Just flip a switch and let your stylish new patio shine.
Patio Lighting Options
Most people start looking into backyard lighting prior to an upcoming event they want to host on their lawn or under their patio, but they’re worried nightfall may put a damper on the evening. Outdoor lighting or patio lighting makes sure that you can see what you’re doing no matter the hour. There are plenty of patio lighting options to consider, so here are some quick product breakdowns and some links to popular products.
Party Lights
Cost – Low
Light Levels – Dim
Permanency – Temporary
First on this list is what most people gravitate towards when they need fast lighting solutions before a backyard BBQ or birthday party. Party lights, string lights, rope lights or fairy lights can be purchased at most hardware stores and most supermarkets. In a pinch, they work well enough to shed some dim light across backyards. They can come with battery-operated power supplies or with a wall plug, depending on whether you have an outdoor electrical supply. Because of their low price and versatility, string lights are a hugely popular temporary lighting solution for many backyard parties. You can buy a cheap pack for under $10, or ones made with the intention to be more permanent for a higher price.
Best Applications: Party lights work best when they’re stung up under an existing structure, like a patio or pergola, or even wound through fence posts. They can even be wrapped around trees or integrated into custom frames.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Easy to install with versatile options depending on whether your home has an outdoor power supply or not.
Cons:
- Non-permanent patio lighting options.
- Limited light brightness.
- Cheaper fairy lights may also come at a risk of overheating after prolonged use or malfunctioning if exposed to the elements.
Security Lights
Cost – Medium
Light Levels – Extremely Bright
Permanency – Long-Term
Many Australian homes come with outdoor spotlights or floodlights as prebuilt patio lighting options to illuminate their yards. Security lights or spotlights provide the dual purpose of enhancing both safety and aesthetics. These lights deter potential intruders by eliminating dark hiding spots and increasing visibility, thereby reducing the likelihood of crime. Additionally, they provide a sense of security for residents, allowing them to move around their property confidently at night. Security lights can also highlight landscaping features and architectural details, creating an inviting ambience for outdoor gatherings and activities. Overall, the installation of security lights is a practical investment that promotes safety while enhancing the visual appeal of outdoor spaces. However, they are extremely bright and can hurt the eyes of anyone who looks directly at them. This harsh light is less appealing than other in-built options. It is recommended to place these lights away from patio areas and point them toward darker spaces like gardens or lawns where people may want to escape a crowded patio area.
Best Applications: Security lights are great options for walk zones and to light up large stretches of land where other light sources cannot be installed. They are great for lighting up lawns and gardens, but because of how bright they are, they’re not ideal for placing anywhere that is at the regular eye level of passersby.
Pros:
- Several power options (Built-in, battery and solar).
- Affordable unit price.
- Deterrent to thieves.
Cons:
- Expensive installation price if no existing power supply is present.
- Some security lights only turn on when they detect motion, so it may be a hassle if they keep turning off during a gathering.
- Harsh light levels.
In-Built Patio Lighting
Cost – High (if no patio is installed already) Medium (if the home already has insulated patio)
Light Levels – Bright
Permanency – Long Term
Insulated patio covers allow you to install downlights directly into the structure. In-built patio downlights are one of the most reliable patio lighting options that offer a range of benefits for enhancing outdoor spaces in terms of functionality and aesthetics. These lights seamlessly integrate into the patio structure and provide a clean and modern look without adding clutter. The focused downward lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for evening gatherings and relaxing outdoors. Insulated patio panels feature a concealed internal cable core, allowing for easy installation of downlights and ceiling fans, further enhancing the overall look and feel of the area. This means you don’t have to worry about cords lying about, and accessing the lights is as simple as flicking on a switch. Patio lights make your patio feel like another room of the house. Patio downlights also provide bright light to illuminate the space fully. Like indoors, you can control the light colour and brightness by changing the bulbs.
Best Applications: Built-in downlights are the most reliable option for outdoor patio lighting. A qualified electrician will install and integrate the lighting with your home’s existing lighting system. This means you can turn them on and off from the doorway, making the patio feel like just another room of the house.
Pros:
- Easily accessible via indoor power switch.
- Permanent solution.
- High brightness.
Cons:
- More expensive.
- Requires professional installation.
- Requires an insulated patio if one does not already exist.
Deck Lighting
Cost – Medium
Light Level – Dim
Permanency – Long Term
Deck lighting is another in-built patio lighting option. However, instead of light coming from above, it comes from below. These lights are integrated into your decking or flooring, offering dim lighting on the ground. Strategically placed floor lights can create a welcoming atmosphere for evening gatherings, dinners, and relaxation, extending the deck’s usability beyond daylight hours. Additionally, deck floor lighting can accentuate architectural features, garden elements, and outdoor decor, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
To avoid irritating eyes, these lighting fixtures are never strong and instead are used to create more visible paths around your outdoor space. These are often utilised to highlight the edge of a patio, illuminate ledges or steps and other potential hazards.
Best Applications: Pathway Illumination: Installing floor lights along pathways ensures safe navigation, guiding guests and family members around the deck area, especially at night.
Pros:
- Enhanced safety on stairs and ledges.
- Adds to aesthetic appeal and gives a luxurious feeling.
Cons:
- High cost for low light level.
- Not ideal as a sole outdoor light source.
Solar Lights
Cost – Affordable – Medium
Light Level: Medium
Permanency: Medium Term
Solar lights come in a wide range of styles, offering numerous options for outdoor lighting solutions. From gutter-mounted downlights to post lights and attached spotlights, solar-powered lights can meet various aesthetic and functional needs. These versatile lighting options not only enhance the beauty and ambience of outdoor spaces but also provide eco-friendly and cost-effective illumination. Whether you need subtle accent lighting or bright security lights, solar lights offer a practical and stylish solution for any outdoor area.
Best Applications: Solar lights may struggle to perform day-in-day-out, however if you only use your outdoor space occasionally, solar systems may be more than enough to provide light while you work the BBQ or to provide dim light while entertaining.
Pros:
- Lower energy cost.
- Permanent/semi-permanent application.
- DIY friendly.
Cons:
- Reliant on the sun for energy.
- Usually need more frequent replacing than in-built lights.
- Can be more expensive than battery operated and hard to repair.
- Can drain or run out mid-way through the night with no way to recharge.
Wall Lights:
Cost: Medium – High
Light Level: Medium – High
Permanency: Long Term
If you don’t have an insulated patio and can’t install downlights, wall lights like bunker lights or coach lights are one of the next best patio lighting options. These light options attach onto your home’s exterior wall and are built-in to your power grid, so you can still turn them on and off from inside. Wall-mounted lights offer good light levels and are a great option to illuminate the sides of your home. While they don’t reach as far as spotlights, the light they shed is gentler and less harsh, making them perfect for spaces where people are expected to hang out.
Best Applications: Patios, decks, outdoor dining areas, and along the sides of homes where a softer, ambient light is desired.
Pros:
- Easy integration with home’s existing power grid
- Provides ample light for social areas without being too harsh
- Enhances the aesthetic appeal of the home’s exterior
- Long-lasting and durable
Cons:
- Installation can be more complex and may require professional assistance
- Generally higher cost compared to simpler lighting solutions
- Fixed in place, offering less flexibility for repositioning or redeployment
The Benefits of Built-In Patio Lights
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Seamless Integration
One of the biggest advantages of built-in patio lights is their seamless integration with your outdoor living space. These lights are designed to blend seamlessly into the structure of your patio roof, creating a cohesive and polished look. No more unsightly wires or solar panels cluttering your patio’s aesthetic.
Effortless Installation
With built-in patio lights, the installation process is straightforward. These lights are pre-installed during the construction of your insulated patio roof, eliminating the need for complex electrical work or costly professional installation fees. Say goodbye to the hassle of wiring and hello to a stress-free lighting solution.
Energy Efficiency
Many built-in patio lights are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They utilise LED technology to provide bright, long-lasting illumination while keeping your energy bills in check. Not only are you creating a cosy ambience, but you’re also doing your part for the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.
Increased Home Value
Investing in built-in patio lights can also add value to your home. These integrated lighting solutions are a desirable feature for potential buyers, as they contribute to the overall appeal and functionality of your outdoor living space. By incorporating built-in lights, you’re not only enhancing your own enjoyment but also increasing the resale value of your property.
With their sleek design, effortless installation, energy efficiency, enhanced safety, and potential to increase your home’s value, built-in patio lights offer a compelling solution for elevating your outdoor living experience. Embrace their convenience and ambience, and transform your patio into a true extension of your living space.
Popular Patio Lighting Styles
Ambient Glow
Ambient lighting is the way to go for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Think strings of fairy lights draped across the patio roof or lanterns hanging from the beams. This cosy glow is perfect for lounging with a glass of wine after the sun goes down. For built-in lighting, opt for warm-toned light bulbs to avoid that overly bright, white LED look.
Bold and Bright
Love that resort-style vibe? Opt for bold and bright patio lighting. Sleek modern fittings, such as flush-mounted LED strips along the roof’s edges, create a striking, contemporary look. Perfect for parties and entertaining.
Mixed and Matched
Can’t decide on just one style? Mix and match different lighting options to create a layered, multi-dimensional look. Combine ambient string lights with a few well-placed spotlights. Or pair bold LED strips with some rustic lanterns. The key is finding the right balance that suits your personal style.
No matter which patio lighting style you gravitate towards, installing those lights as part of your insulated patio roof is a game-changer. No messy wires or complicated setups required! Just flip a switch and let your outdoor oasis glow.
Patio Lighting FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered
What are the benefits of built-in patio lighting?
With built-in patio lighting, you get a seamless and permanent lighting solution that’s integrated right into your patio structure. No more fiddling with temporary solar lights or stringing up cables. It’s a clean, professional look that adds ambience and safety to your outdoor living space.
How much does built-in patio lighting cost?
Costs can vary widely based on the size of your patio, the type of lights used, and whether you opt for dimmers or smart lighting controls. As a rough guide, expect to pay an extra $500–$2,000 for a quality patio lighting setup installed by a professional.
What types of lights work best for patios?
Downlights are a popular and effective patio lighting option. Mounted in the ceiling, they provide excellent ambient light without getting in the way. Pendant lighting is possible but not recommended, as it can be affected by winds and rainfall.
Can I install patio lights myself?
Unless you have significant electrical experience, DIY patio lighting installation is generally not recommended. Improper wiring or connections can create fire risks. Hire a licensed electrician to ensure your lights are safe and properly integrated into your home’s electrical system.
How do I control my patio lights?
Most modern patio lighting setups include control options like dimmers, timers, and smart home integration. You can set the perfect mood lighting with the touch of a button or app. Voice controls and scheduling are also possible with smart systems.
So there you have it—some great options for built-in lighting on your new patio. With the right planning and installation, you can have an outdoor area that’s just as bright and functional as any indoor room, rain or shine. No more faffing around with solar lights or extension cords. Just flip a switch and let your patio shine. If you don’t have a patio yet but are interested in a custom insulated patio build, contact SEQ Patio Group today for a fast quote and expert opinions.
