Patio Lighting Tips

You can light your deck or patio in many different ways.  Inexpensive tiki torches are quick and easy.  If you want to run electrical wiring there are many different routes you can take with your patio lighting.  
If patio lighting is planned properly before installation, it can make a deck or patio become an extension of the home.  It will increase the quality of the time spent outdoors and more than likely, increase the amount of time spent outdoors.  Not only will it be more enjoyable to spend more time on the patio, it will be safer.
Using low voltage lighting has the benefit of using less electric energy.  By using less energy, you place less strain on our environment and keep your electric bill from getting out of hand.  The great thing about low voltage lighting is that with today's technology, you can get more light than you ever could with the older style incandescent bulbs.  Most energy savings through light fixtures is done with the bulbs that are used so if you can't see much of a difference between light fixtures, spend a few minutes looking at the bulbs to see what type of bulb you want to use and get fixtures that will accept those kinds of bulbs.
There are kits available to help you install the lighting yourself if you don't want to pay to have someone else to do it for you.  Some kits come with the light fixtures, hardware, and wiring to go along with detailed instructions.  If you do choose to install lighting yourself, make sure you turn off the power before you begin wiring into the established electric lines in your home.  Safety is never something to take for granted when you deal with electricity.  If this is your first time working with electricity make sure you educate yourself before starting the project.
Accent lighting can create any mood that you desire on your deck or patio.  You can accent the steps or railing on your deck.  Accent lights can show off plants or a grill area or anything you want to put focus on.  Well planned accent lighting can be enough lighting to bring an entire area to life at night.  
Planning out your lighting before beginning your installation can save you a lot of headaches down the line.  Map out your wiring plans and where you will place each light.  Having an idea of how much light each fixture will emit is good planning, as well.