Outdoor lighting not only creates a stunning affect for your home and landscape, it also provides safety and security benefits.
As the evenings are getting dark earlier, look around your home, yard and neighborhood. Do you see areas that pose safety and security questions?
Much is said about the stunning affect residential and commercial outdoor lighting can have on architectural and landscaping features. However, in addition to the aesthetic benefits, a low voltage outdoor lighting system also offers the following safety and security benefits…
- Eliminates dark exterior areas where vandals can easily hide, making it a strong deterrent for break-ins and home or community invasions.
- Creates a welcoming and inviting appearance.
- Increases safety by lighting up path ways, pool walkways and entry ways.
Simple and affordable safety and security preventative measures can be taken by installing a few fixtures in the unlit areas of your yard or common areas of your community.
To learn more about lighting design techniques that can help you maximize your home and neighborhood’s safety and security, visit Outdoor Lighting Perspectives.
More...
If you have a deck or are planning on constructing a deck, then consider installing wood lattice or plastic 
lattice as an accent or barrier.
Installing lattice on your deck is a great way to accent your outdoor living area and add privacy. Commonly used as skirting, lattice is a perfect solution for keeping pets and other animals from digging or nesting under the deck. Adding lattice to your composite lumber deck or pressure treated decking frame also allows you to create a hidden storage area and helps conceal the otherwise exposed wood deck support posts.
Lattice can be used in a variety of ways—from decorative to practical. Other common uses include:
- Gates
- Hot tub enclosures
- Fence tops
- Arbors
- Gazebos and trellises
Plastic lattice and pressure treated wood lattice are typically sold in 4×8 sheets in both large and small diamond or square patterns. Plastic lattice comes in many different colors to complement your deck or home. Most big box retailers carry lattice in a variety of colors and styles.
Add a custom color to wood lattice by applying exterior paint or stain to the surface. If you have a treated lumber deck that has been stained, be sure to apply a matching or complementary stain on newly installed lattice.
Installing lattice is a simple DIY project that is very affordable and won’t take all day to install.
More...
