If you want to improve the look of your home when you start spring cleaning and also improve functionality, the right decorative lighting is an easy way to do both. Properly placed landscape lighting provides nighttime curb appeal and improves the overall safety around your house and garage. A well-thought out plan for placement can accent the beautiful spaces inside while giving you the right kind of light to completely enjoy your home. That’s why our electricians in Montgomery, Auburn, and the surrounding area are here to help.
Improving the overall isn’t the only reason to update decorative lighting. The right fixtures and bulbs can also save money on energy costs. Experts have said homeowners who redecorate and include updated lighting expect increased comfort, lights that are easily controlled, and energy efficient fixtures.
Homeowners in Auburn and Montgomery, AL have many options when choosing decorative lighting. Whether they need interior table lamps, wall sconces, ceiling fixtures, chandeliers, pendants, or outdoor lighting choices, options come in many different shapes and sizes. Consider the following key factors before you decide to redecorate with updated lighting fixtures or new energy efficient bulbs.
- Cost
Cost can be one the biggest variables when choosing decorative lighting. For example, a custom-designed fixture will cost more than one that’s ready-made. The construction and material of the lighting fixture will also affect the cost, whether wood, metal, ceramic, or a combination. Size will also greatly impact the bottom line. Generally speaking, the larger the light fixture, the higher the likelihood that it will cost more.
How ornate the fixture is will also affect the overall cost; the fancier the look, the more you’re likely to pay.
If budget is a primary concern, be sure to consider all the factors affecting price when adding decorative lighting to your home. Inexpensive options will have a similar impact on the look, safety, efficiency, and usability of your home. Choose what works best for the money you have available. Our electricians in Montgomery and the surrounding area will give you a free estimate, too!
- Durability
When redecorating with lighting, durability is a factor to consider, especially for outdoor lighting. Weather can be brutal on certain types of materials, and the extreme temperatures of Alabama summers can affect your choices. To get the most from your investment, do research up front to decide which materials will give you the look you want while still standing up under various conditions. Some great durable outdoor options are:
- Copper: Very popular because of the pleasing weathered patina that comes with age
- Brass: High quality that holds up well in weather conditions.
- Aluminum: A less expensive metal that will deteriorate over time, but specific finishes like powder coating can help.
- Stainless Steel: Can withstand weather, especially with the proper finish but will need regular cleaning to maintain a good look.
Weather will have no bearing on indoor decorative lighting choices. However, consider the use of the space and the overall style when choosing the lighting desired. You’ll want the decorative lighting chosen to stand up to the normal wear and tear of everyday use, but the choices of materials for decorative indoor lighting are many. Some of the most popular are:
- Metal: Virtually any type will work indoors. Style and the color scheme will weigh heavily on whether or not you choose to redecorate with metal, and if so, which kind. Many wall sconces are made of metal.
- Plastic: Depending on the daily use and possible wear and tear, plastic light fixtures can be highly functional and are very budget friendly.
- Wood: Wood is a popular choice and comes in many natural and painted finishes.
- Combinations: Many decorative lighting fixtures are a combination of these finishes and often meet the budget and look desired by homeowners.
To ensure that you install durable decorative lights, be sure to hire a reputable company within your area. Discover the Dixie difference when choosing your electrical contractor. Our electricians in Montgomery and Auburn will lead you in the right direction in your decorative lighting choices.
- Placement
Typically, when installing decorative lighting, be sure to place them where they will be the most usable. For example, if you decide to hang decorative lights above your dining table, make sure that they don’t interfere with the view of the diners. Other considerations are proximity to outlets for table lamps, and if you have any spectacular outside views, you’ll want to be sure any fixtures aren’t in the way. If you’d like to emphasize specific artwork, while not necessarily decorative, eyeball recessed lighting has the capability to be aimed in many directions to suit individual needs.
- Size
Ultimately how large the decorative lighting fixture used depends on the space in which it will be used. Generally speaking, smaller fixtures are better suited for small spaces, like a hallway, while larger ones are great for more expansive areas like a grand entryway. For example, when choosing whether a particular chandelier will work for your space, add the width and length measurements (in feet) of the room together, then convert to inches. The answer in inches should be the maximum diameter of your fixture. So if your room is 10 feet by 12 feet, the diameter of the chandelier should be about 22 inches.
- Style
There is no rule of thumb as to what style to use for decorative lighting. Typically, the choice should complement the home’s overall interior design style. Modern light fixtures that are more sleek with smooth lines may be better suited in a home with a modern architectural style. Conversely, a more traditional home may look better if redecorated with classic style lighting.
Of course, personal style and taste of the homeowner is always the main consideration and many prefer to mix styles in an eclectic fashion that best complements the furniture styles, decorative items, and use of the space.
When you’re ready to move forward with installing decorative lighting in Auburn, AL, call the expert electricians at Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air. They always know how to brighten your day.
- Functionality
The final key factor to consider when choosing decorative lighting is functionality. For indoor lighting, dimmer switches allow you to control the amount of lighting in a space, which helps with creating the atmosphere of the room. Many come with a remote control, making the lighting versatile and easy to use. Dixie’s electricians in Montgomery and Auburn can help guide you in the right direction of your lighting choices, too.
Another key element of function and efficiency, is choosing the right light bulb for the application for which it is to be used. It’s also essential to hire professional and experienced Auburn area electricians to evaluate your home or office before you decide to redecorate with updated lighting to make sure you get the best bulbs and decorative light solutions that meet your needs and budget.
To learn more about how to spruce up your home when spring cleaning this year, discover Dixie. You won’t be disappointed. Call Dixie today to schedule your spring cleaning with one of our electricians in Montgomery and the surrounding area!
