Porch lights are designed to illuminate a home's entryway and immediate surrounding area. These lights can be hung from the porch ceiling, be placed atop a vertical pole or affixed to the exterior wall, next to the door. Porch lights come a vast range of styles, functionality and sizes. Some are contemporary in design, while other present a modern or antique look. Whatever their look, porch lights are manufactured to be durable and withstand varying weather conditions.
Instructions
1. Measure the gross square footage of your porch using a tape measure. Knowing the size of your porch will be instrumental in choosing the proper porch light, which will provide adequate illumination. Also measure the area in which it will be installed, particularly if a wall-mounted unit. There should be enough room to accommodate the light assembly and facade.
2. Choose a style that fits the home's exterior architecture. If the home is traditional, choosing a a jazzy, modern or post-modern style might look awkward. Look through brochures at your local hardware or home improvement store featuring exterior lighting. Notice which porch lights fit certain types of architecture.
3. Determine the amount of illumination you want to provide. Should you want a soft light that primarily lights the door, choose a low-voltage lamp, which recommends using bulbs between 40 to 60 watts. If you wish to brightly illuminate the porch, select a lamp that can power higher-wattage bulbs, ranging from 75 to 100 watts.
4. Factor in functionality. Some porch light units come with dimmer switches, remote controls or photocells. Dimmer switches allow the homeowner to subtly adjust the lighting, remote controls often turn lights of or on, and photocells cause the light to come on when the sun goes down. Choose the one that best fits your needs.
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