Friday, December 13, 2013

By Jeannie Chapman


Exterior lighting is the main trend in home improvement these days. This is because architectural landscape lighting San Antonio is one of the easiest and most dramatic ways to enhance the look of your home or complex. A comprehensive light system is also an investment in the security and safety or your property.

More professional home designers are focusing on outdoor lights as a way to easily enhance the look of a home or property. A well thought out design brings focus to home details that would normally fall into darkness. It also brings out the beauty of landscaping. If this isn't reason enough to consider architectural landscape lighting San Antonio, don't forget the safety aspect. Law enforcement agency recommend lights as a simple way to deter break-ins and thefts.

Most systems utilize a low-voltage electricity so can be installed quickly and easily by a handy homeowner. Using solar and battery systems also make it easy to get lighting to difficult to reach areas of a property, which can often be the most dangerous. In terms of exterior design, using spot lights focused up into trees is popular. Edging, shrubs and hedges can also be highlighted to help better distinguish your home and property.

Lights are essential for safety. Walking a property in darkness is dangerous, so well-lit paths, stairways, driveways or any well trod areas is important. Using motion detectors is a great option, as it saves electricity and can alert the homeowner if someone is approaching or is in an area they should not be in. Along with motion detectors, timers and other controls make outdoor lighting something you will not have to think about.

There are light kits available at hardware retailers for the do-it-yourselfer that are relatively easy to install. However it is well-worth the time to explore having a professional design and install outdoor landscape lights. These professionals are experienced and can suggest the latest options and ensure that you have a complete plan for your lights and fixtures.

Finding a good contractor takes a little bit of work, but can be done quickly using the internet. First search for local companies, then go to each firm's website to review their work. Remember though that you will be seeing only the best they do so it is important to meet in-person. Pick three firms from which to get estimates. This way you have some basis for comparison. If you find you are getting a wide-range of prices, make sure they are all bidding on the same plan.

Scrutinize each estimate carefully and ask for itemized details. A single price with no detail can lead to problems. Materials, fixtures and labor should all be broken out. Also ask if they will need sub-contractors for things like electrical, and insist they be licensed. Be skeptical of lowball bids. Getting a good deal is fine, but make sure it is complete so you're not faced with hidden costs.

Architectural landscape lighting San Antonio is a wonderful way to improve the look, safety and security of your home or property. Properly installed, outdoor lights last decades with minimal maintenance. With today's timer and control options, it also something you will not have to worry about. You'll be pleased every time you come home and find your home beautifully lit with landscape lighting.




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