How Much Light Does Your Commercial Property Need?

Optimal lighting is more than just illumination – it’s a strategic asset for commercial properties. But how much light does your commercial property need? In this guide, we’ll help you understand the crucial considerations and measurements for determining the right amount of light your commercial space requires. 

Why add lighting to your commercial property?

First of all, what are the advantages of illuminating your commercial property? There are several compelling reasons for adding lighting to your commercial real estate, including: 

• Enhancing ambiance and aesthetics, creating a welcoming environment
• Boosting productivity and mood among employees and customers
• Increasing safety and security, especially in dimly lit areas
• Showcasing merchandise or architectural features, attracting attention
• Supporting sustainability goals through energy-efficient lighting solutions

While the benefits are clear, the amount of lighting you need isn’t always so obvious. So, how do you calculate the necessary lighting for your commercial space’s exterior? Let’s explore that next.

How much light does your commercial property need?

Effective exterior lighting for commercial properties is crucial for safety, security, and creating an inviting atmosphere. In this section, we’ll give you an estimate of how much external lighting you need for different types of commercial properties. 

Guidelines for exterior commercial lighting

For pathways and walkways, aim for 10-20 lumens per square foot for safe navigation. Emergency exits and pathways should be well-lit to meet safety codes. For parking lots, consider 10-20 lumens per square foot for optimal visibility and security. You can also enhance the aesthetics of your building façadade with 50-75 lumens per square foot to highlight architectural features.

Keep in mind that these are just guidelines to help you plan your lighting project – you may need to adapt these recommendations to suit your property’s specific layout and usage. 

Fixture placement and coverage

As well as understanding how much light you need, it’s also important to make sure your lighting is carefully thought out. Make sure you have an even distribution of light fixtures to prevent dark spots or glare, and place lights strategically to illuminate potential hiding spots or blind areas. 

Energy efficiency and technology 

For commercial property owners and managers, reducing electrical costs is often a top priority. LED fixtures are energy-efficient and long-lasting, typically requiring 0.5-1 watt per lumen. You might also like to explore motion sensors and timers to minimize the energy usage of your lighting during low-traffic hours. 

The experts at Houston Lightscapes are here to help

Proper planning and expert installation of exterior lighting can significantly enhance the safety, security, and overall appeal of your commercial space during the evening hours. Whether you’re looking to make your building safer, more appealing to customers, or simply boost the after-dark ambiance, quality lighting can make a big difference. 

At Houston Lightscapes, we have more than three decades of experience in local commercial lighting solutions. Contact our expert team today for a free consultation to discuss the most effective lighting solutions for your property. We can’t wait to hear from you!