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by Alan Kauzlaric
Guest Editor |
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LANDSCAPE LIGHTING:
Before You Begin |
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| Seeing the Light | Before You Begin | Special Effects |
Landscape lighting systems are available in line-voltage form and low-voltage form. A lighting showroom, landscape specialist, or electrician can help you determine which will be best for your application. Line-voltage systems require special care and attention to local building codes. Low-voltage systems require a properly sized transformer, taking into consideration overall wattage and distances from the transformer. All systems should be designed with protection of the wire and safety in mind. Regardless of the system you choose, there are a wide variety of light fixtures and effects available to you. Many of the fixtures blend into the landscape, but some, especially path lights, are available in decorative form.
As with all lighting, ask yourself what you want to see, then determine which fixtures can help you achieve your vision. I've heard of lighting showrooms arranging night visits with landscape lighting equipment to demonstrate the effects available. Contact a showroom near you, and ask them if this is something they can do.
Landscape lighting can also play a role in home security. By using certain techniques, you can eliminate dark areas and illuminate your home, making it less attractive to trouble and more appealing in general. Too often, glaring lights are placed shining out into the yard from the house. Why not turn this commonplace practice around and aim light at the house and plantings? However, always be aware of glare — you wouldn't want to look out your window and be faced with a glaring bulb.
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