Path lighting is an essential design aspect of low voltage outdoor lighting that enhances safety, security, and aesthetics. Creating well-lit and inviting spaces, customers can safely navigate their outdoor living areas while enhancing beauty simultaneously. 

Why path lights? 

Installing path lights adds beauty to an outdoor space while providing safety and functionality during nighttime. Prior to tackling any installations, it’s crucial to carefully plan your layout with a focus on safety. Determine the walkways and other spaces that need to be illuminated. Are there any transition areas to a new surface? Are there any changes in elevation that need attention? If you can, walk the outdoor space in the evening to identify key areas or hazards that require light.

Step two; focus on aesthetics of your design. The areas of safety should be marked, providing a starting point for fixture location. From there, you will want to mark off the space between each light. Generally, you want to create spaces of even illumination, avoiding gaps. For path lights, this means the surface area of light from one fixture reaching the next. Gaps would be a dark area where the path or walkway isn’t lit, sometimes creating a hazard. The light surface area of each fixture will vary depending on the project, but a general rule of thumb is about 10 feet for a standard path light with an 18-inch riser. Most lighting manufacturers can provide detailed photometric diagrams for their products that provide more specific guidance for spacing.

From a design perspective, there are two options for illuminating walkways with path lights. 1) Linear path lighting - each fixture is on the same side of the walkway. Evenly space out the fixtures and match the same depth to the pathway during install, e.g. every 10 feet and 6 inches from the edge. 2) alternating path lighting – staggering fixtures so they alternate sides each time. Use a similar practice for installing as linear path lighting. Path lights can also be used to illuminate plant beds, ground cover and other low-lying areas that can benefit from the aesthetics of illumination at night. Ask your customer where they spend their time in the evening, that will guide you to the important areas they want to see. 

Consider a Demo Kit

SiteOne offers a variety of aluminum, brass, and copper path lights. The most effective way to grow your outdoor lighting sales is through lighting demos. Invest in a demo kit and start practicing design techniques as often as you can. 

If you need help, stop by your local SiteOne and talk to one of our associates. To learn more about getting started with outdoor lighting visit our Equipped for Lighting page or find a SiteOne lighting education event in your area.