When it comes to deck or patio lighting, we always like to start by asking the homeowner a simple, one-word question: “Why?”

This question might catch them off guard since they don’t typically expect the outdoor lighting professional to ask such a fundamental question.

The reason behind asking this question is quite simple – Your answer helps us determine how deck lighting can truly enhance the purpose of this space.

• Do you primarily use your outdoor space for dining al fresco?
• Is it an alternate entrance to your home?
• Or is it simply a place where you can unwind with a glass of your favorite red wine after a long day at work?

Patio or deck: what’s the difference?

Before we shed a little light on your deck lighting options, we want to clear up some confusion with the terms patio and deck.

• A patio is an outdoor living space at ground level with a concrete or paver-based floor.
• A deck is an elevated outdoor living space typically made of wood or a composite wood alternative equipped with steps and enclosed by railings.

With that sorted out, here are a handful of patio and deck lighting options that will help you make the most of this popular outdoor living space.

Task lighting for outdoor kitchens

There are few things finer than revving up the grill and dining al fresco when the weather is just right.

For outdoor kitchens and grills, outdoor task lighting can play an extremely helpful role in meal prep.

As its name implies, bright task lighting will make chopping, grilling, and serving easier — and easier to see.

For example, a light placed above your grill or flexible lighting added next to it can be independently turned on or off whenever it’s needed, and only when it’s needed.

Pergolas: Perfect For Downlighting

Today, many homeowners are opting for pergolas to provide shade for their patios and decks during hot afternoons. However, when it comes to nighttime, the situation changes completely.

The pillars and cross-beams of your pergola offer an excellent platform for various deck lighting options.

One of our personal favorite design tips is downlighting from a tall structure, which creates a gentle, natural full-moonlighting effect.

Dimmable deck lighting creates an ambiance

Landscape Lighting Pro of Utah’s bistro lighting also comes with an automated, fully dimmable option that can be controlled with your preferred smart device — no plugs to worry about.

From bistro lighting to downlighting, you can dim your lights as much or as little as you need to create the perfect amount of ambiance for your deck setting.

Dimmability will keep you from feeling like you’re dining under a spotlight.

It will allow your deck lighting to complement candles and outdoor fireplaces.

Tread lighting adds safety underfoot

Last but not least, safety lighting for decks is something that shouldn’t be overlooked.

After all, decks have stairs, and poorly lit stairs at night can do more harm than good.

We recommend reducing trip hazards with tread lighting.

Tread lights fit right into the stair and focus light downward onto the step immediately below it.

Do your evenings need a little deck lighting?

If so, call (801) 440-7647 to schedule your free deck or patio lighting consultation, or fill out our simple contact form.

Located in Sandy, Landscape Lighting Pro of Utah serves customers throughout Utah’s residential areas, including Salt Lake City, Park City, Draper and Holladay. Our outdoor lighting portfolio includes projects from Salt Lake County and Utah County, to Davis County and Summit County — and beyond.