Garden lighting is a marvellous manner in which to enable a garden to be used after dark, and provides additional security for the home. Ideally, garden lighting should fashion a beautiful nighttime panorama where trees glow, fountains sparkle, and paths are bathed in subtle, natural light. However, in most cases, developing garden lighting is not merely a case of creating the desired ambience. There are serious safety issues that need to be considered. Initially, a sketch plan of the garden (including all paths, steps, walls and water features) will aid in the determination of focal points. A subsequent consideration should be the areas that require lighting for safety reasons, and those which require "effect only" lighting. If the garden is of any substantial size, this is probably the appropriate time to seek the advice of a professional electrician.

POWER SOURCES

Solar Power
As a renewable energy source, solar energy is the "environmentally friendly" option. Lights charge during the day, for use after dark. Such lights need no cables, which can be unsightly. The downside is they are not as bright as electric lights, so they are not suitable for use as spotlights, or in areas receiving little sunlight.

Electricity
Electricity provides brighter light, but obviously needs cabling to supply the power. A step-down transformer must be used for electric lighting. Installing such lights can be a D.I.Y. task, as long as due care is taken. Be certain to check manufacturer's instructions as to the number of lights per transformer, and be aware that more that one may be required.

GARDEN LIGHTING TYPES

Halogen
Halogen lights produce a yellow light, use more energy than LED lights and become hot to touch.

Light Emitting Diode (or LED)
LEDs produce a purer white light, portraying the true colour of the garden. They are about 75% to 90% cheaper to run and do not get hot.

DECORATIVE OR HIDDEN LIGHTING
Decorative lights form part of the architecture and are meant to be seen both day and night. Hidden fixtures are often used where the aim of the lighting is purely functional, such as lighting a door. For example, downlights hidden in the eaves to provide back door lighting, or maybe path lighting from lights discreetly positioned in trees.

Some of the most common types of garden lighting are listed below:

Uplighters
Light is directed upwards to highlight a feature such as a tree or wall-mounted water features and the like from beneath. Surrounding areas are washed in a peripheral glow.

Downlighters
These reveal surface texture, as well as highlighting a specific object. They can be used effectively from high positions (e.g. trees) to create a dappled effect on paving or lawn.

Wall-mounted
Wall lights are flat panels built into the wall. They can illuminate feature walls and can highlight boundaries as a security measure. In order to ensure a wash of diffused light, translucent panels (e.g. frosted) are recommended.

Bollards
These are low-standing lights with a light source on top, which may be louvred or open. These are useful for lighting pathways or entries, for safety and security. Place them at intervals along your paths.

Spotlights
Spotlights are bright lights aimed to highlight large architectural features, and special trees or water features.

Surface Lighting
Surface lights are built into walls, to highlight deck and step surfaces, and can be put in the ground. They enhance security and hazard visibility.

Underwater Lights
Submersible lights can be placed in a pond, water feature or pool to create a variety of nighttime effects. They also alert visitors to the presence of such potential hazards.

The key to an effective lighting scheme is moderation. Garden lighting is most effective when used to accentuate rather than overpower. The garden's design should be the feature, not the lighting. The object of the lighting is to accentuate the features of the garden. For added security, it is worth considering infrared movement sensors that turn on automatically when visitors approach. Finishing touches can make or break your garden lighting design scheme, e.g. coloured filters, frosted lenses, anti-glare devices and the like. Be careful with the use of coloured filters in garden lighting designs, since they can give plants a sickly colour, or unnatural look. However, a blue filter on an underwater light can make the water look very fresh and clean
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29 June 2008
A variety of brand new boxed candles would suit market trader or car booter or keep as pressies for the family. 13 boxes flower t-lites 6 in a box 2 boxes votive candles 15 in each box 9 gold leaf with glass t-lite holder(individually boxed) 2 black with metal t-. .
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A variety of gifts for all the family,all prices include uk postage and packing. international postage available please contact for a quote. www. mellowmoodsgiftshop. com.
03 June 2008
New micromark pack of 5 battery operated push lights white size 140x55mm indoor use only no wiring rquired lamp 1x 4. 8v 0. 5a screw fit bulbs.
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Olympic garden torch brand new in box . steel body with with a brushed copper finish ,would look good in any garden or patio also it repels insects with secial oils . for more information please e-mail or you can visit my online shop i take paypal payments cheq or postal. .
£20
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26 May 2008
3 x 300w halogen floodlights with white casing - not with inbuilt pir but there is a wiring connection panel at the rear so they can be wired to a separate pir switch. i used these to light rooms when building my house before the electric wiring was completed. good for. .
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From wickes - new in box - surplus to requirements.
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