If your beautiful deck, which people love to hang out on during the day, becomes bare and gloomy at night, you have a decking light problem.
Your deck deserves a glow. And we mean it literally. Enter: LED Decking Lights. Not only do they banish the gloom, but they also turn your outdoor space into a mood-setting masterpiece.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the bright path towards decking lights. We’ll tell you everything you need to know, from creative lighting ideas to spacing tips, installation basics, and choosing between low-voltage and mains-powered options.
By the end of this post, you’ll be lighting your deck like a pro. Let’s get glowing.
Why Light Up Your Decking With LEDs?
We’d love to say that fireflies and fairy dust are the best options for deck lighting, but we don’t have much of those to go around. And candles are romantic, but not practical (not to mention a safety hazard). Thankfully, we have LEDs.
But why LEDs?
- Energy Efficiency: The number one reason why you should be using LEDs already. They’re long-lasting and low-energy.
- Low Maintenance: Set them up, and forget them. (Well, almost.)
- Weatherproof: With IP-rated options built for the British climate, your deck won’t be left in the dark, rain or shine.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Decking lights = instant garden glamour. Bonus points if they change colour.
Creative LED Decking Light Ideas That’ll Wow Your Guests (and Neighbours)
Ready to deck out your deck? Here are six creative decking ideas using LED lights:
1. Outline the Deck Perimeter
Perimeter lights create a soft, ambient glow that elegantly defines the edge of your decking. Plus, they’re a subtle cue not to wander into the flowerbeds accidentally or fall off the deck.
2. Highlight Steps and Stairs
Raised platforms and the dark don’t mix well. If you’ve had incidents of stubbed toes and awkward tumbles, it’s time for a glow-up. Outdoor deck step lighting improves visibility and gives your deck that “professionally designed” look. And most importantly, no more stubbing!
3. Accent Planters, Benches & Balustrades
Got garden furniture or raised beds you’d like to highlight? Give them their time to shine (literally). Angle lights towards key features to draw attention. It’s a not-so-subtle way of saying, “Hey, I’m proud of this.”
4. Mix Up Your Colour Temperatures
If you didn’t know already, different colour temperatures on your lights bring out different vibes and emotions. Soft, warm whites are for relaxed evenings. Cool whites are for activities that need good lighting. RGB colour-changing lights for when it’s time to party.
You can also create different zones in your outdoors by having various colour temperatures in each zone. Smart lighting options even allow you to change colours through your smartphone or remote controls.
5. Add Motion Sensor Decking Lights for Surprise Wow
Imagine the looks on your guests’ faces as they walk onto the deck and the lights spring to life automatically. Practical and a little bit magical (like your deck is greeting you personally).
6. Incorporate Light Into Water Features
Want an Instagrammable outdoor? If your deck includes a small water feature, pond, or fountain, place decking lights to reflect light off the water’s surface.
Spacing and Installing Decking Lights Without a Hitch
Plan First, Drill Later
Before you make a single hole, sketch your layout. Think about where people walk, where you’ll place furniture, and which areas need a little extra glow. You don’t want to install your light right under your furniture where its glow won’t be visible.
Spacing Guidelines (Don’t Overdo It!)
We get it. You want your deck to be bright. However, too much light is also not beneficial for your electric bill and the aesthetics of your deck. And did we mention glare? Here are some guidelines on how you should space your decking lights:
- Perimeter lighting: 1m to 1.5m apart is usually spot on.
- Steps: One light per riser or every other riser, depending on brightness.
- Feature lighting: Use sparingly for dramatic effect.
You want lighting that is “just right.” Even in photographs, overexposure is not a good thing.
Mounting Matters
You’ve got to make the decision: recessed or surface-mounted?
- Recessed lights: Sleek and safe. Lights are flush with the surface, eliminating safety risks.
- Surface-mounted lights: Easier to install but slightly more visible. Best suited for installation in locations with minimal foot traffic.
Low Voltage vs Mains-Powered Deck Lights
Ah, the big question. This may sound technical at first glance, but it’s simple, really. Plus, it’s essential to address when selecting your decking lights.
Should you go with low-voltage lights or stick with mains-powered ones? Let’s look at their perks.
Low Voltage (12V-24V)
- Often available in plug-and-play kits.
- Ideal for DIY enthusiasts. Looking for your next weekend project? You just found it.
- Generally safer for homes with pets and kids.
- Great for smaller decks or mood lighting.
Low-voltage decking lights require an LED driver or transformer to work. Some are supplied with the lights, but others need to be purchased separately. So, always check with your supplier.
Mains-Powered (230V)
- Usually have brighter output.
- Perfect for larger decks or if you’re integrating them with your current garden lighting.
- Great for a more permanent deck lighting. Once it’s in, it’s in for the long haul.
- Don’t need extra devices or parts to make the lights work.
Since you’re connecting them to the mains circuits, these need professional installation. Get a certified electrician to install these lights for you.
Pro Tip:
When using a driver or transformer, ensure its maximum load or capacity can handle all your lights—and then some. It’s always a good measure to allow for a 20% to 30% safety margin. Also, if you’re planning to add more lights later, leave a wiggle room!
Never overload your driver to avoid electrical hazards and damaging your lights.
Decking Light Recommendations That’ll Make You Swoon
Not all lights are created equal. Here are some top picks for a UK garden that can handle everything from BBQs to torrential downpours.
Recessed LED Decking Lights
The gold standard. Flush with the surface, sleek to look at, and super-safe. Available in various sizes, finishes, and colour temps – from warm white to colour-changing RGB.
Solar-Powered Deck Lights
Although this may come as a disappointment (occasionally), if you think about the UK weather, but this is a decent option if you want a quick, no-wiring-required glow for your deck.
IP-Rated and Ready for the Rain
High IP-rated deck lights are your best bet if you want them to withstand the British weather for a long time. Look for decking lights that are IP65-rated (or higher).
Bonus: stainless steel or aluminium finishes won’t easily rust or tarnish.
Smart and Colour-Changing Kits
Some might find basic white lights boring. So, why stop at basic white? Grab an RGB decking light kit that you can control using a remote or from your phone. Some kits come with colour-changing, dimming, or scheduling features you can enjoy.
Final Deck Glow-Up Tips
- Test Before You Drill: Planning is one thing. Seeing your plan in motion is another. Lay out your lights and test the layout before committing to it.
- Use Timers or Sensors: Automate your lighting for maximum experience. Hey, it’s not laziness. It’s efficiency.
- Layer Your Lighting: We’ve been talking about deck lights, but they’re not the only outdoor lights you can use. Combine deck lights with wall lights, bollards, or garden spots for a professional, layered look.
- Blend Form and Function: Lights should be both beautiful and practical. Don’t let looks blind you (literally). Position your lights so they can illuminate dark spots and provide safety for your deck.
Conclusion
There you have it. A complete, yet simple guide to decking lights. Whether you’re sipping a quiet cuppa at sunset or hosting a full-blown garden party, LED decking lights bring the ambience, safety, and style your outdoor space deserves.
Ready to brighten up your outdoors?
Explore Simple Lighting’s collection of LED decking lights and make your garden shine – one light at a time.
