Outdoor Wall Lights
Browse our range of Wall Light products which are sure to fulfill all of your garden and outdoor requirements. Explore this great selection for a functional and stylish way to illuminate your garden which will provide you with a working solution to a number of outside applications.
If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, you don’t want to be limited on how and when you can use it. That means ensuring you have adequate outdoor light so you can enjoy your garden at all times of the day, through the year, even after the sun has set. Outdoor wall lights are the solution. From floodlights for added security, to spotlights for showcasing your garden’s best features, to atmospheric lanterns emitting a warm, welcoming glow, lighting is a great way to make the most of your outdoor space.
What is an outdoor wall light?
An outdoor wall light is a form of exterior lighting solution that can be wall mounted, either to the rear wall of your home, or to any other wall in your garden in line with third party wall regulations. This makes them different from freestanding exterior lamps, or lights that are placed at floor level, such as solar lights for illuminating a garden path.
Outdoor wall lights are specifically designed for use in outdoor spaces, so they are typically made from very strong and robust weatherproof materials, and feature corrosion-resistant finishes that ensure the lighting solution can withstand the elements.
What types of outdoor wall light are there?
There are numerous different types of outdoor wall light to choose from. Some, such as multi-directional lights, spotlights, and outdoor wall lights with PIR sensors, are typically more ‘functional’ lights. As these types of wall lights include features such as an ability to direct the light in the required direction, or automatic triggering, they are often used as security features, or for illuminating the outdoor space for practical purposes.
Other types of outdoor light, however, are more for creating atmosphere and ambiance. Solar wall lights and up and down lights, for example, are ideal for generating just a gentle and attractive glow, making them ideal for garden parties.
There are plenty of technologies to choose from, too. While solar is the most environmentally friendly option, more reliable lighting in darker conditions can be achieved through LED outdoor wall lights connected to the mains. Fluorescent lights and halogen lights for exterior walls are also available depending on preference.
How do I choose an exterior wall light?
The best way to choose outside wall lights is to consider the intended purpose of the light. For example, if the light is intended to enhance security, consider very bright lights that switch on automatically either using built-in PIR sensors that respond to movement, or dawn-til-dusk sensors which illuminate outdoor spaces when natural light decreases.
If, however, outdoor wall lights are intended to make an area more cosy for warm summer evenings relaxing in the garden, or socialising with friends and family, decorative up/down lights that emit just a warm glow may be a better option.
Ultimately, there are a few questions to ask to ensure the correct light is selected:
How bright should outdoor wall lights be?
The brightness of outdoor wall lights should be determined by two aspects: the purpose of the light, and the size of the space. For example, a security light will generally want to emit more light than an atmospheric lantern, and a brighter light will be required to illuminate larger outdoor spaces than smaller ones. Always pay attention to lumens.
Outdoor wall lights will, in most cases, offer anything between 680 lumens - 3500 lumens. The lower brightnesses are well suited to small patios, while the average small garden will typically require a brightness of around 2300 lumens. On the other side of the scale, large patios are best lit with 1100 - 1600 lumens, and large gardens 2300 - 3500 lumens.
What colour should my outside lights be?
Most outdoor wall lights will come in a colour between 3000k and 3500k on the Kelvin scale. This is between a warm white (which has an orange hue) and a neutral white. For ambiance, a 3000k light is ideal, adding an inviting and welcoming warmth to your space. For security lights, 3500k bright white lights are best for clarity and visibility.
What IP rating do I need?
It’s important to remember that all lights advertised as being suitable for outdoor use should have the necessary weatherproofing to ensure safe exterior illumination. However, there is a wide range of ratings to consider depending on the environment.
Most outdoor lights will be rated either IP44 or IP65. However, some may be rated IP23, IP54, or IP64. The best rating depends on the conditions the light will be exposed to:
IP23 offers the least protection, from small objects and 60 degree water sprays
IP44 offers protection against solid objects and multi-directional water splashes
IP54 is splash-resistant and offers partial dust protection
IP64 is splash resistant and completely dust-proof
IP65 offers full protection against dust and multi-directional low pressure jets
Does appearance matter?
The appearance of an outdoor wall light shouldn’t affect the quality of the light at all. However, some people do prefer more attractive lights that match the look and feel of their exterior environment. For example, a PIR lantern combines cutting edge sensor technology with the decorative lantern shape, while black outdoor wall lights complement modern spaces and gardens inspired by the monochrome trend.
Do exterior lights need a weatherproof junction box?
Some exterior wall lights may require a box, while others won’t. It really depends on the type of light, how it’s being installed, and where it’s being installed. Low voltage lights, for example, generally do not require a box. Building regulations may require that wiring for other types of lights are enclosed in a weatherproof junction box for added safety.
Like the lights themselves, exterior junction boxes are IP rated, and add extra protection against water, dust, and objects. There are many different sizes and styles available.
How do you install outdoor wall lights?
The first consideration should always be where the garden wall lights are going to be installed. Outdoor wall lights with sensors, for example, should be installed in a place where the sensors have good visibility of the outdoor space, without obstruction. For solar wall lights, outdoor spaces that get the most sun are the best spots for installation.
How the lights are installed will depend on the type of light. Battery and solar lights can be very quick and easy to install, while mains powered lights will be more involved.
The best course of action is to ensure that all installation instructions are read and followed carefully, and that power is turned off before beginning any electrical work. If unsure on how to proceed, it’s always best to seek advice from a qualified electrician.
