Avoid These Commercial Lighting Mistakes

If you own a business or commercial property, you probably already know that outdoor lighting is essential to safety and security for your customers and other visitors. The right lighting can also attract business, but how do you know what the “right” lighting is? Sometimes it starts with knowing what the “wrong” lighting is. Avoiding the common commercial lighting mistakes outlined below can help set you up for success by saving energy and creating a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment.

Failing to Plan

Just placing lights haphazardly in your bushes or on your building will never achieve the results you’re looking for. A great lighting design will ensure uniform illumination across broad areas while also using accent lighting to highlight specific features that should draw the eye (e.g., signage, fountains, architectural features, beautiful landscaping). In addition, certain areas should always be well-lit for safety and security: stairs, steps, changes in elevation, entrances and exits, pathways, walkways, parking lots, etc.

To help you plan out the lighting you need, walk your property at night, making note of any dark spots or areas that feel unsafe. Get as many different angles as you can, including from across the street or driving by, so you can see it the way your visitors will see it. Think about what you love most about your property and would like to feature. Then make a plan that includes both functional lighting and aesthetic and accent lighting that adds ambiance.

Choosing the Wrong Type of Fixtures

Although you might be tempted to try to save some money, outdoor lighting fixtures are not the place to cut corners. You need lighting fixtures that are high-quality, durable, weather-resistant (i.e., brass, stainless steel, etc.), and rated for outdoor conditions. As a bonus, high-quality fixtures like these are usually easier to maintain, repair, and clean. In the long run, low-quality fixtures will end up costing you more in maintenance because you will need to replace and repair them more often.

Ignoring Light Pollution

Be a good neighbor. Don’t add to light pollution in your community that can disrupt the homes, businesses, and wildlife around you. Choose fixtures that have shielding on them that helps direct light exactly where it is needed. Place fixtures strategically to provide effective lighting without creating hot spots or glare.

Disregarding Energy Efficiency

Underestimating the benefits of choosing energy-efficient lighting solutions for your commercial property is like throwing money away. Older lighting systems and fixtures that use halogen or incandescent lights use much more energy and require more maintenance. Choose energy-efficient LED lights whenever possible. Incorporate timers, motion sensors, and automatic dimmers, which save you money in energy bills but also help prolong the life of your lighting fixtures.

Not Scheduling a Free Consultation with Houston Lightscapes

At Houston Lightscapes, we can help you avoid all of these common commercial lighting mistakes and more. We’ve spent over 30 years transforming residential and commercial properties across the Houston area with stunning, one-of-a-kind outdoor lighting displays, using only high-quality, energy-efficient fixtures and lights. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with us today!