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You understand lighting will dramatically change the nighttime look and appeal of your home, our outdoor spaces' usability, and your property's safety and security. You get it, but now the most important decision looms - who do you hire to design and install outdoor lighting? Who can prominently feature your landscaping and design a lighting system for your home?

There are plenty of landscape lighting contractors, so how do you choose the right company to work with? What company will do the best job for you? Below, we’ve compiled a list of what to look for when you hire an outdoor lighting company.

What to Look for When You Hire an Outdoor Lighting Company

LIGHTING DESIGN 

The right lighting contractor should emphasize the design and lighting effects. The right lighting design makes a property beautiful after dark, creates useful spaces out of unusable ones, and caters to your home and property.

A good lighting designer will also ask you important questions, like how you use or intend to use your outdoor spaces. Every single fixture should have a purpose. More often than not, we run into existing lighting systems where lights have been thoughtlessly strewn about the landscape. The subsequent effect is a lackluster lighting display that doesn’t consider your home and property’s unique attributes. They understand different lighting effects and how to make the most of your home after dark.

COMMUNICATION

Most homeowners can relate to the lack of communication received from contractors. It seems when you need them most, they’re the hardest to reach! Look for a contractor who exhibits good and timely communication. It’s important to stay updated throughout the entirety of the project. Especially important is follow-up after a project is completed - this is vital to ensure you’re completely satisfied with the work before you pay the last deposit.

PORTFOLIO

Talk is cheap, and the proof is in the pudding. Make sure the contractor you're working with has a large body of work to view. Just because someone says they can make your vision come to reality doesn’t mean they really can. Check out the lighting contractor’s website or places like Instagram or Facebook for photos of completed projects.

REPUTATION

A good company will have a good online reputation. Before you hire a lighting company, check out what customers say about them on sites like Google, Houzz, or Facebook. You will get a wide scope of people’s experiences with the company and be able to compare and contrast some of the positive and negative reviews.

Look for an Outdoor Lighting Company That Specializes in Local Lighting Regulations

Before embarking on your outdoor lighting project, it's essential your design considers any local regulations or ordinances governing outdoor lighting in your area. Compliance with these rules not only ensures a well-lit but also a legally sound outdoor space. Here's what you need to know:

Local Regulations

Your local municipality or city government will likely have regulations regarding outdoor lighting regulations specific to your area. These rules may cover aspects like light pollution, fixture placement, brightness, and timers.

Preventing Issues

Understanding and adhering to local regulations can help prevent potential issues, disputes with neighbors, or fines resulting from non-compliance. It's essential to obtain any necessary permits before beginning your lighting project.

Responsible Lighting

Many regions have dark sky ordinances aimed at reducing light pollution. Consider using dark sky-friendly fixtures that direct light where it's needed and minimize light spillage into the night sky.

Working with a Professional

A lighting professional well-versed in local regulations can guide you through the compliance process. They can help you design a lighting system that not only meets your aesthetic preferences but also aligns with local requirements.

By familiarizing yourself with local lighting regulations or seeking a professional who can determine the legality of your designs, you can enjoy a well-lit outdoor space while respecting your community's guidelines and preserving the beauty of the night sky.

Hire an Outdoor Lighting Company With Experience in Different Outdoor Spaces

Designing outdoor lighting isn't a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Each setting on your property has unique features and requirements. Here's how to tailor outdoor lighting to different settings:

Gardens: Accentuate the beauty of your gardens with gentle, diffused lighting. Use path lights, well lights, and spotlights to highlight plants, flowers, and sculptures. Avoid harsh, direct lighting that can damage delicate plants.

Pathways: Ensure safety and aesthetics by installing path lights along walkways. Soft, low-level lighting is ideal for guiding guests without causing glare. Choose fixtures that complement your landscape design.

Pool Areas: Illuminate pool areas with a mix of underwater and above-water lighting. Colored LED lights can create a vibrant atmosphere for evening swims, while functional lighting ensures safety around the pool.

Outdoor Kitchens: Enhance outdoor kitchen spaces with task lighting. Install lights under counters, cabinets, and grilling areas for functional illumination. Dimmable fixtures allow you to adjust the ambiance for dining.

Patios and Decks: Create inviting outdoor living spaces with a combination of ambient and task lighting. Hanging lanterns, string lights, and wall sconces can define seating areas and dining spaces.

Landscaping Features: Use uplights and well lights to showcase trees, shrubs, and architectural features. Experiment with different angles and intensities to create captivating focal points.

Tailoring your outdoor lighting to specific settings not only enhances their beauty but also ensures functionality and safety. Consider consulting a lighting professional to create a customized lighting plan that suits each area of your outdoor space.

Additional Value: Hire an Outdoor Lighting Company That Lights For All Occasions

Outdoor lighting isn't just for everyday use—it can also be a creative tool to celebrate seasons and special occasions. Here are some seasonal lighting tips to make the most of your outdoor space year-round:

Spring Blooms: Welcome the arrival of spring by highlighting budding flowers and fresh foliage. Use soft, warm lights to create a cozy atmosphere for outdoor gatherings as the weather warms up.

Summer Nights: Extend your summer evenings with well-placed lighting. String lights or fairy lights can add a magical touch to your outdoor parties or late-night stargazing sessions.

Fall Ambiance: Embrace the cozy, rustic feel of autumn with warm amber and orange lighting. Illuminate your pathways and landscaping to create an inviting atmosphere for fall gatherings and Halloween festivities.

Winter Wonderland: Transform your outdoor space into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Hang icicle lights, wrap trees with sparkling strands, and use festive colors to spread holiday cheer.

Special Occasions: Whether it's a birthday party, anniversary celebration, or a romantic dinner, adjust your outdoor lighting to suit the occasion. Colored or themed lighting can set the perfect mood.

Remember, outdoor lighting is versatile and can adapt to the changing seasons and your personal celebrations. With a little creativity, you can use lighting to enhance every moment throughout the year.

Questions to Ask When You Hire an Outdoor Lighting Company

1. Qualifications -
   How long have you been in business?
   Do you use in-house crews or is your work subcontracted out?
2. Portfolio -
   Who takes your photographs?
   Are the photos on your website actually yours? Just because the website has pretty photos doesn’t mean the photos show the work of this contractor. A contractor without a body of work to show is a huge red flag.
3. Warranty -
   What kind of warranty do the fixtures have?
   Are the lamps covered as well?
4. Quality Lighting Products -
   What company manufactures these fixtures? Are they a certified low-volt outdoor lighting manufacturer?
   What kind of design options are available? What kinds of materials?
5. Customer Service
   What is your customer service procedure like?
   Do you follow up after the installation to ensure your customers are happy with the results?  All lighting installs should be maintained. Otherwise, the lighting effect will diminish over time. Choose a contractor who offers frequent service to maintain the lighting effect and your investment.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your lighting needs, please feel free to request a free consultation online.

We’re a local business that has been lighting up Nashville since 2012. Our team has years of experience creating and installing unique and elegant outdoor lighting designs and providing maintenance and repair services to homes and businesses across Middle Tennessee. Our award-winning company has been voted 1st in Nashville House & Home for landscape lighting for four consecutive years and Best of Houzz for the last three years. 

Located in Goodlettsville, Light Up Nashville services Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, Hendersonville, Gallatin, the surrounding areas, and beyond.