How to Light an Outside Deck

Your outdoor deck is a place for family and friends to gather, relax, tell stories and share meals. After sunset, the proper lighting turns the deck into a warm and inviting place. Lighting illuminates doors and stairs for safety. You could also use lights to decorate the deck's walls and handrails. Accent lighting is an inexpensive way to give the deck a romantic glow. Shine lights on your deck to keep your party, conversation or cookout going all night long.

Safety lights
Solar lights
Light strings
Accent lighting

Instructions

- 1
  Install rows of low-voltage lights on the deck roof. Low voltage lights are less harsh on the eyes.
- 2
  Hang lighting over each table on the deck. This helps guests see the table, as well as each other.
- 3
  Place solar lights on your deck's posts or handrails. During the day, solar lights absorb the sun's energy. At night, the absorbed energy powers the lights. These are ideal for saving money on the electric bill.
- 4
  Hang strings of white or colored lights on the deck rails. These lights add a festive, cheerful accent to outdoor parties.
- 5
  Install safety lighting on or under the stairs and by doors. Unlit stairs are a safety hazard, since someone can fall down and sustain serious injury. Put safety lights around the pool or hot tub if you intend to use it after dark.
- 6
  Hang accent lights on the deck walls. Some accent lights display interesting patterns on the deck floor.
- 7
  Attach a lamp to the deck to illuminate the grill area if you like to cook at night.

DIY Overhead Light Fixture Covers

Calculation Methods for the Number of Lighting Fixtures Needed

Lighting