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How do I Choose the Best Porch Light Fixtures?

By Misty Amber Brighton
Updated May 17, 2024
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One of the things you should consider when choosing porch light fixtures is the architecture, or design, of your home. You should also think about their size and how bright you want them to be. Other factors to consider might be the quality of the product in relation to its overall cost.

Porch light fixtures come in many different designs, so, if possible, you should try to choose one that matches the design of your home. It can be a good idea to take a photograph of your house with you when shopping, particularly one that shows a view of your porch. That way, you can try to imagine what this fixture might look like if it were in place.

Before you choose porch light fixtures, try to determine where you might want to put them. Measure this area to see how much room you have for them. This can help you know whether or not the light is too big for the location where it is going to be placed.

You may want to select a hanging fixture for your porch. If this is the case, measure the height of this light so you can determine how far down it can hang without obstructing the space. Generally speaking, a porch light fixture should be at least seven feet (2.14 m) high in order to give ample clearance for tall people to walk underneath it.

Also, choose porch light fixtures that emit the right amount of light to fit your needs. If you only want to light up the area around a doorway, choose a type that uses a low wattage bulb, which is approximately 40 to 60 watts. Conversely, if you need to fully illuminate a larger area, you may need one that calls for a 100 watt light bulb.

Once you have narrowed your choices down to two or three different selections, compare them based on cost and quality. Inspect the fixtures to make sure all parts are securely attached and that there is no rust or corrosion on them. You may end up using your porch light fixture for a number of years, so you do not want to select one that is poorly constructed.

Porch light fixtures are usually easy to install for many homeowners. This equipment can provide a feeling of safety while allowing you to make better use of your outdoor space. It might also add beauty and value to your house at the same time, so it is very important to choose this item wisely.

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Discussion Comments

By backdraft — On Apr 02, 2012

I have a series of Japanese lanterns lighting up my porch. They are electric but they imitate the design of a Japanese lanterns and they cast a warm soft glow over the whole porch.

I have always loved the look and light quality of Japanese lanterns but I was worried that if I used ones with an actual flame I would end up burning my house down. When I saw these electric alternatives in the store I knew that I had to have them.

By tigers88 — On Apr 02, 2012

I spend a lot of time sitting on my front porch with my wife in the summers. We used to have a very weak little light out there but it wasn't going to cut it. We are both big readers and we were killing our eyes trying to make out the print while sitting on the front porch.

I invested in a high wattage light fixture that casts a warm bright light over the entire porch. It light up the entire facade of our house and provides all the light that we need to read until our hearts content.

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