Outdoor lighting is an important aspect for any type of location, but it is crucial in an apartment complex. Since this is a location type many people call home, there are certain desired results you want the lighting to achieve. Here are 4 tips on choosing exterior lighting for apartments to help make the most of this space.
1. Choose lighting fixtures rated for exterior use.
When planning exterior lighting, it is important to consider the elements it will be exposed to during the life of the fixture. Fixtures for exterior purposes are designed to withstand wind, rain, heat, snow, dust, and other influences of weather which can wear away at the life of a fixture. While the rating of the fixture, in terms of the IP and UL ratings, is important, the quality of the fixture is also a key aspect. Look for options made with durable materials such as silicone gaskets, polycarbonate lenses to avoid shattering, and rust resistant housings for signs of quality manufacturing built to last.
2. Decide the height for placement based on the power of the solution.
The general guideline is that the more powerful in lumen output, the higher up it should be placed to avoid it being overly harsh. If a lighting solution uses a high lumen output that is concentrated in the beam spread, it can be too harsh if placed at eye level or below. On the flip side, a solution with a lower lumen output placed up high will lead to the illumination becoming too widely disbursed to be truly effective. With this guideline, you can more easily determine the right placement for lighting based on lumen output.
3. Opt for cool temperatures over warmer temperatures.
Color temperature, and color rendering of objects, is a crucial part of choosing exterior lighting for apartments. If the color temperature is too warm, it will produce a yellow tinge that is less flattering to the eyes than a cooler white tone. Cool temperature lights also tend to offer a better color rendering of objects than warmer tones. These two factors of temperature and CRI are essential in creating lighting that makes renters feel safe in their apartment setting.
4. Be aware of light spread and light pollution.
While a certain level of light pollution is unavoidable in this location, there are measures you can take to help reduce it. For instance, the parking lot spaces need ample light, but that light should be focused downward and angled opposite of apartment windows. Walkway lighting in the form of poles should also be placed with downward light and placed in between windows on the opposite side of the walkway as opposed to directly in front of windows. This will help to eliminate some of the more direct light spread from interfering with occupant’s comfort.
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