Landscape Lighting in Highland, NY for Safety and Security

It should go without saying that home security is more important now than ever. Effective security lighting should do two things. First, it should act as a deterrent to trespassers. Second, it should allow you to see if trespassers have entered your property.  However, security lighting doesn’t have to be unsightly or boring. In fact, it can actually enhance the beauty of your home and property.

With the added benefit adding increase safety and security in your Highland NY, landscape lighting adds beauty and ambiance to your landscape while extending the hours that you can enjoy your yard at night. A good lighting plan will highlight architectural features and landscape elements, while ensuring high traffic areas and dark corners are adequately lit.

Five security lighting ideas to consider when installing an effective and beautiful outdoor lighting system

1.      Navigation Lighting

A dark property can create safety risks that wouldn’t exist during the day. Whether it’s an unexpected obstacle or a visitor to your home who may not be familiar with traffic patterns, adequate lighting on walkways and stairs will ensure that everyone can find their way safely.

Consider adding path lights, driveway entrance lighting, step lights, and other navigational lighting.

2.      Eliminate Dark Areas and Extend Visual Reach

If a potential trespasser sees a dark residence, it becomes a potential target. The most effective element for deterring trespassers from entering your property is lighting. While motion sensor lights will momentarily deter trespassers by illuminating a section of your property, large dark areas will be seen as a weakness. A more effective approach would be to install lighting throughout your property that gently illuminates larger areas. This will allow you to eliminate the dark areas and establish visual control over your property.

3.      Water Features

If not properly lit, water features on your property, such as pools and ponds, pose a safety risk. Pool edges, ladders, stairs, and any protruding features should also be well lit to avoid accidental falls toward the water. Underwater lighting will allow for nighttime swimming and make the water’s edge easy to locate. LED lighting systems create an all-over lighting effect that isn’t as harsh as an underwater spotlight.

4.      Outdoor Cooking

Whether you have an outdoor kitchen or a grill on your patio when it comes to nighttime cooking, a well-lit work area is a must. Adequate lighting is important for safety while preparing food and to ensure that food is properly cooked. Under-cabinet lighting will make cupboards and appliances easy to locate. Toe kick lighting will cast low-level lighting to help prevent you from tripping and ensure that you can find dropped items.

Related: How to Make Use of Your NY Outdoor Kitchen During Fall

5.      Front Entrance

A well-lit front entrance will improve the look of your home and make it easier for guests to approach your door after dark. Entryway lighting should fully illuminate the front porch or steps, eliminating shadows where an intruder could conceal themselves. You also want to avoid harsh lights that shine at eye level. A combination of wall sconces and a flush-mount or pendant light will help achieve the right lighting for your front entrance.

Hire a Professional

Landscape lighting may seem straightforward, but there’s a lot to consider when it comes to lighting your property. Knowing which type of light to use and what voltage is best are just some of the ways a professional can improve your landscape lighting. They also know where to place fixtures to avoid shadows and when to use uplighting, spotlights, and path lighting for the best results. A professionally planned lighting system will ensure that your landscape is properly lit for aesthetics, safety, and security.

Related: Incorporating Attractive yet Functional Outdoor Lighting in your Fishkill, NY Landscaping