Exterior Lighting Selection Guide

Start by identifying the area you need to illuminate and what the light needs to accomplish. A building entrance, parking lot, pathway, backyard, loading area, and landscape feature all require different lighting approaches.

When comparing exterior LED lighting, review lumen output, mounting position, beam spread, color temperature, voltage, controls, fixture construction, and wet- or damp-location ratings. Commercial and residential outdoor projects may also require different fixture styles and performance levels.

Match the Fixture to the Outdoor Area

Building Exteriors:
LED wall packs and outdoor wall-mounted fixtures can provide illumination around entrances, service areas, perimeter walls, and other exterior zones.

Parking Lots & Large Outdoor Areas:
LED area lights are commonly used for parking lots, roadways, commercial properties, and other open outdoor spaces where wider coverage is needed.

Security & Perimeter Lighting:
Flood lights, wall packs, and dusk-to-dawn fixtures can support visibility around entry points, building corners, walkways, and property boundaries.

Canopies & Covered Areas:
LED canopy lights can be used in covered walkways, parking structures, service areas, and other overhead exterior applications.

Patios, Paths & Landscapes:
Landscape lights, outdoor sconces, post lights, step lights, and decorative fixtures can improve visibility while adding visual interest around homes and outdoor living areas.

Key Factors to Compare

• Lumens: Choose light output based on area size, mounting height, and the amount of illumination required.
• Beam Spread: Wider beams can cover larger areas, while narrower beams can provide more focused illumination.
• Mounting Height: Fixture height affects coverage, spacing, and perceived brightness.
• Weather Rating: Confirm that the fixture is appropriate for wet, damp, or exposed outdoor conditions.
• Color Temperature: Warmer light can suit residential spaces, while neutral or cooler white is often used for security, parking, and commercial applications.
• Controls: Photocells, motion sensors, timers, and compatible dimming can help manage operating hours.
• Voltage: Verify that the fixture is compatible with the property's electrical system.
• Fixture Style: Residential and decorative applications may prioritize appearance in addition to lighting performance.
• Light Control: Consider glare, neighboring properties, and where the fixture directs its light.

Plan Exterior Lighting by Zone

A complete outdoor lighting plan may use several fixture types across one property. Wall packs can cover building perimeters, area lights can illuminate parking zones, flood lights can provide directional coverage, and landscape or decorative fixtures can improve pathways, entrances, patios, and architectural features.

Buy LED Online carries outdoor and exterior LED lighting for both residential and commercial applications, making it easier to source multiple fixture types for coordinated property lighting.