Tag Archives: deck post lighting

Deck Lighting 101 – Side Mount Lights

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A great alternative to too many post-cap lights are side-mount lights. Since they give off a warm glow that pairs well with post caps, side-mount lights are the ideal option to illuminate your deck without blinding anyone.

However, if you seek lighting that is bright enough for task lighting, then you will want to make sure to pair your side-mount lights with post-cap lights.

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By using side-mount lights on your deck, there will be no worry of being eye level with a bright light when you’re sitting down. These type of lights mount to the side of the deck post. The ideal height of a side-mount deck light is about 32 in. to 34 in. from the deck surface.

Side-mount lights come in many different ornate styles to match the style of your home effortlessly.

Check out AdvantageLumber.com for our collection of fabulous side-mount deck lighting!

Deck Lighting 101 – All About Low-Voltage Wire Connectors

When it comes to your deck-lighting set, you will need to purchase quick-connect fittings to link each fixture to the central supply cable that runs from the transformer. To produce a connection, most connectors are made to perforate the outer layer of the supply cable with two sharp prongs.

Now which connector is right for your deck-lighting set?

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Disk Connectors:

Disk connectors are prone to coming loose over time. They sometimes let water get into the system. However, you can mitigate these issues by using electrical tape. We strongly recommend that you consult a licensed electrician if you have never dealt with this type of connector.

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Silicone-Filled Snap Connectors:

If you’re looking for weather resistance, then silicone-filled snap connectors are ideal. Their minimal size gives you the ability to join wires without stripping the sheathing. Just keep in mind that silicone-filled snap connectors are only compatible with solid wires. And if you decide to use this connector for multiple deck-lighting applications, then you must use stranded cable.

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Wire Nuts:

Weather-resistant wire nuts are a great alternative to quick-connect systems. They come in many sizes to accommodate different wire sizes and combinations of wires. The only downside is that they sometimes don’t stay concealed when you try to run wire under a railing.

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Barrel Connectors:

Barrel connectors let two wires to be linked together and then can be protected with a weather-resistant heat-shrink tube. They lie flat, which makes them a great option for spots where concealed connections are essential.

Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry! So please consult a licensed electrician if you are not sure what you’re doing!

Check out AdvantageLumber.com for our available deck lighting options.

Deck Lighting 101 – Tips For Lighting Deck Stairs

Installing post lights into stringers so that each light illuminates one step can create a uniform look, but might also a cluttered one.

Installing post lights into stringers so that each light illuminates one step can create a uniform look, but might also a cluttered one.

You’ve bought your stair lighting package. Now where on earth do you install your lighting?

When it comes to lighting your deck staircase, proper installation is a must. Creating shadows or blinding light can lead to safety hazards. After all, tripping isn’t a good look for anyone, no matter how well you bounce back. Make sure to add extra lighting if your stairs are built with darker looking deck materials.

Installing recessed shaded or louvered deck lights onto stair risers directs light down. This allows anyone, especially children to ascend stairs without being blinded.

Installing recessed deck lights that are shaded or louvered onto stair risers directs light down. This allows anyone, especially children, to ascend stairs without being blinded.

Recessed fixtures are the best solution to steer clear of stair accidents. You will want covered or louvered fixtures that direct light down so they don’t distract people walking up the stairs.

You also don’t want your light to overlap, which means you need to avoid placing fixtures on sporadic sides of a staircase.

If you install a post light that's centered above the riser, you can illuminate two steps at once. This can save you time and money when buying and installing deck lights.

If you install a post light that’s centered above the riser, you can illuminate two steps at once. This can save you time and money when buying and installing deck lights.

Height placement of your fixture allows for wider illumination. Be sure to center your light fixtures over the riser, rather than the tread, so it will illuminate multiple steps and not just one.

If you follow these few guidelines, your deck will be well lit and safe! Check out the available deck lighting options today.