Wired for Brighter Nights

by Joe Bolognese, SiteOne Landscape Supply

As landscape/ hardscape contractors, you are always looking for ways to enhance the beautiful and exceptional work that you perform each and everyday for the thousands of residential and commercial clients you have. Intricate patios, pool decks, waterfalls, planting beds, privacy hedges, etc. should be the focal points both in the daytime and evening hours. Low voltage landscape lighting can offer a wide array of opportunity to enhance those awesome scapes with both illumination and safety.

Using a combination of path lights, well and mini well lights, spot or bullet lights, wall and ledge lights and others can give a home the added effect of height and space that helps with curb appeal and also can raise the appraisal value of the home.

But of course the largest factor of low voltage lighting is the safety element. Creating an illumited home and landscape helps your customers navigate the property and shed “lite” on possible intruders (human oranimal) and can help avoid unwanted confrontations.

1. Identify Key Areas:

Begin by assessing the outdoor space and identifying areas that require adequate lighting for safety. These areas typically include pathways, stairs, entrances, driveways, and potential hazards such as uneven terrain or water features. By focusing on these key areas, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a well-illuminated pathway for your clients.

2. Choose the Right Fixtures: Selecting appropriate lighting fixtures is essential for achieving both functionality and aesthetics. Path lights, spotlights, and well lights are popular choices for landscape lighting. Additionally, consider incorporating motion sensor lights near entrances for added security.

3. Strategic Placement: The placement of lighting fixtures plays a vital role in enhancing safety. Position path lights along walkways and stairs to provide clear visibility and guide individuals safely. Spotlights can be utilized to highlight potential hazards, architectural features, or points of interest.

4. Lighting Techniques: Experiment with various lighting techniques to achieve the desired safety and ambiance. For instance, consider employing “grazing” to illuminate textured surfaces, such as stone walls, to add depth and visual interest. “Silhouetting” can be used to create striking effects by placing lights behind objects, casting their shadows against walls or fences. These techniques not only enhance safety but also add a touch of artistry to the outdoor space.

6. Maintenance and Regular Inspection:

Once you have installed landscape lighting, ensure regular maintenance and inspections to keep the system in optimal condition. Check for any damaged wires, loose connections, or burnt-out bulbs. Trim vegetation around fixtures to prevent obstruction of light and maintain the desired illumination levels. This is an excellent add-on service that can increase revenue.

Landscape lighting not only enhances the beauty of outdoor spaces but also contributes to safety and security. By strategically selecting lighting fixtures, placing them thoughtfully, and incorporating energy-efficient options, you can create a well-lit environment that ensures safe navigation and enhances the overall appeal of property. So, illuminate your clients’ outdoor spaces wisely and they will enjoy the added benefits of safety and aesthetics that landscape lighting brings.

Low voltage landscape lighting like the Pro-Trade®️brand offered only at StieOne Landacape supply stores, can really “brighten” your land/hardscape lives.

Joe Bolognese is Department Manager of Irrigation and Landscape Lighting at SiteOne Landscape Supply in Mahwah, NJ. He is a past Vice President and Associate Director of the NJLCA. He Chairs the By-Laws, Education, Licensing / Certification & Scholarship Committees. Joe has been an active member of the NJLCA for over 20 years and has over 25 years experience in the Landscape & Irrigation Industry, working for several well known distributors including John Deere Landscapes, Shemin Nurseries & Atlantic Irrigation, which are all now SiteOne. Joe is always actively and passionately advocating for the NJLCA membership through Education.