Considering landscape lighting for your home often raises questions about the installation process, energy efficiency, and ongoing maintenance. In this guide, Astoria Lighting Co. answers the most frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions for your next outdoor lighting project.
What Is Landscape Lighting Installation?
Landscape lighting installation refers to the professional design and placement of low-voltage outdoor lighting fixtures to highlight key features of your home and yard. This includes everything from walkways and patios to architectural details and plantings. At Astoria Lighting Co, we provide custom solutions using weather-resistant LED fixtures, efficient transformers, and expert installation techniques that preserve the integrity of your landscaping and hardscaping.
Can Landscape Lighting Be Installed Under Driveways and Sidewalks?
Yes! Astoria Lighting Co. can safely run low-voltage wiring under driveways and sidewalks without disrupting your existing hardscaping. We utilize specialized conduit, precise boring techniques, and/or existing gaps in expansion joints or masonry, ensuring cables are securely installed below surfaces. This method prevents future maintenance issues and helps maintain your home’s curb appeal.
Do You Have to Dig Trenches for Installation?
In most residential installations, trenching is minimal and done in a way that leaves no lasting impact on your landscaping. For larger or more complex projects, we may use a trenching tool or vibratory plow to install cables efficiently.
Will I Need to Obtain Permits?
Typically, permits aren’t necessary for basic residential landscape lighting installations. We do not have to pull permits for low-voltage landscape lighting on residential projects in Austin, Houston, San Antonio, DFW, Atlanta, Salt Lake City, Utah County, or Edmonton.
How Deep Do You Bury the Cables? Will They Interfere with Lawn Maintenance?
We bury low-voltage landscape lighting cables at a depth of 3 to 6 inches, depending on the location and terrain. This depth ensures the cables are protected from damage caused by mowing, edging, and general lawn maintenance. Our installation process prioritizes both safety and aesthetics, ensuring cables remain hidden while maintaining accessibility for future servicing.
What Fixtures, Bulbs, and Transformers Are Used?
We install high-quality, durable, weather-resistant LED fixtures that offer excellent illumination, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance requirements. Our fixture options include:
- Path Lights – Ideal for lighting walkways and paths.
- Spotlights – Highlight architectural details and key landscape features.
- Well Lights – Flush with the ground for a clean look, illuminating trees or shrubs.
- Flood Lights – Provide broad illumination for larger areas.
- Step & Deck Lights – Enhance safety on stairs and elevate the appearance of outdoor living spaces.
LED Bulbs & Color Options
Astoria Lighting Co. exclusively uses energy-efficient LED bulbs. LEDs significantly lower your electricity bills compared to traditional bulbs and require minimal maintenance due to their extended lifespan. We offer various color options, including warm white and adjustable-color bulbs, depending on your preference.
How Do You Manage Voltage and Power Requirements?
Our installations use high-quality, energy-efficient LED bulbs paired with appropriately sized transformers. Transformers are strategically placed to convert standard household current to low-voltage power (usually 12, 24 or 36 volts, depending on the system), optimizing brightness and energy efficiency. Transformers can be either simple timer-based systems or advanced smart-enabled options controllable through a smartphone app, giving you convenient, customized lighting control.
Do Landscape Lights Raise Electricity Bills?
Installing LED landscape lighting typically results in minimal increases to your electricity bill, thanks to the efficiency of LED technology. Customers frequently report negligible changes in monthly utility costs due to the low wattage and energy-efficient nature of our LED systems. You will not notice the effect of the landscape lighting on your electricity bill.
How Much Maintenance Will My Landscape Lighting Require?
Our installations are designed to minimize maintenance. The durable construction of our fixtures and protective placement of wiring ensure longevity. Most customers only need occasional bulb replacements or minor adjustments, both of which are simple and inexpensive. We offer a heavy-duty, integrated LED spotlight that comes with a 10-year warranty. This warranty covers both the fixture and bulb, which is built into the fixture so that the heat generated by the LED dissipates through the fixture.
Routine maintenance recommendations:
- Inspect fixtures every season for dirt, debris, or moisture.
- Trim back plants that may block the light output.
- Check wiring for signs of wear or displacement after storms or landscaping work.
Can Landscape Lighting Be Installed in Wet Climates?
Absolutely. Astoria Lighting Co. uses water-resistant LED fixtures and outdoor-rated wiring, making our systems ideal for areas that experience rain, snow, or humidity. Our sealed fixtures prevent moisture ingress and are UL listed for outdoor use.
What Are the Benefits of Professional Landscape Lighting Installation?
A professionally installed landscape lighting system provides:
- Enhanced curb appeal and night-time aesthetics
- Improved safety along walkways, stairs, and driveways
- Increased home value with visually appealing upgrades
- Smart control for personalized scheduling and remote access
- Long-term durability through expert installation and high-quality materials
DIY solutions often lack the durability, reliability, and clean appearance of a professionally designed and installed system.
Why Choose Astoria Lighting Co?
- Professional Installation: We use specialized techniques to install your lighting seamlessly, preserving your home’s aesthetics and hardscaping.
- Energy Efficiency: Our LED bulbs significantly lower your energy usage, reducing monthly utility costs.
- Convenient Smart Controls: Easily manage your lighting system via smart, app-based controllers, or choose simpler, reliable timer options.
- Local Expertise: Familiarity with permitting and regulations in your area (Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, Atlanta, Salt Lake City, Utah County, and Edmonton).
Investing in professionally installed landscape lighting not only beautifies your home but also adds safety, convenience, and value.
Ready to Light Up Your Landscape?
Investing in professionally installed landscape lighting not only beautifies your home but also adds safety, convenience, and value. Contact Astoria Lighting Co. today to schedule your free consultation and discover how we can transform your outdoor space with expertly installed LED lighting.
Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help. Reach out to Astoria Lighting Co. for expert advice and customized recommendations for your landscape lighting installation. We proudly serve homeowners and businesses across the United States and Canada. Check out all of our locations to see if we’re in your neighborhood.
