There are several types of lighting that can help enhance the landscaping outside your home. Two of the most popular kinds are uplighting and downlighting. Here, we’ll explain the difference between down and up exterior lighting and how to use them.
Downlighting
Downlighting is a technique that utilizes lights facing in a downward direction. You place a downlight at a high point so that its beam shines toward the ground. In terms of exterior lighting, homeowners frequently use downlights on porches, patios, or garage areas. These downlights create a soft glow to illuminate areas that you want to be more visible, especially at night. Downlights are also great for seating areas and pathways around your home.
How To Use It
Downlighting is best for elements near the ground that you want to draw attention to. It can also add brightness and security to your home’s front doors, walkways, garages, porches, and entryways. You’ll need something high up to affix your downlights to so that they can fulfill their purpose. For example, you can use the underside of your porch roof for your downlight location. These lights will create a soft illumination that lets you enjoy your porch space and have visibility in the evenings when it’s darker outside.
Uplighting
Uplighting is a technique that uses lights that face in an upward direction. You place uplights at a low ground level so that their beams shine on your desired focal point. This lighting method is especially beneficial in landscaping and garden areas. Uplights help to create designated focal points. In other words, it allows you to showcase specific features within your landscaping. These types of lights are perfect for illuminating trees, plants, statues, fountains, and other structural elements on your home’s exterior.
How To Use It
Uplighting is best for highlighting and showcasing specific features within your home’s landscape and exterior. Uplights add a beautiful glow and focal point to help you show off your favorite elements around your home. You should install these lights at ground level and point them upward toward the feature you want to highlight. For example, you can utilize an uplight to accentuate a garden statue or fountain. Uplights are also great to use on trees and plants around your property.
Now that you know the major differences between uplighting and downlighting, you can utilize these lighting techniques for your home’s exterior. Astoria Lighting Co. has a fantastic selection of exterior landscape lights that’ll help you achieve the look you desire for your home and its landscaping.