Decks add value and joy to any home. With a composite deck, you can expect to recoup about 68.2% of the building costs, offering long-term value and a durable outdoor space that stands the test of time.1 They also provide a space for relaxation, entertaining and enjoying the outdoors. However, one often overlooked aspect of deck design is lighting. When it comes to designing and building a deck, lighting should be considered an integral part of the process rather than an afterthought. By incorporating in-deck lighting into the initial design and construction of the deck, homeowners can create a cohesive and customized outdoor living space that not only looks stunning but also enhances safety and usability.
Lighted Deck Post Options
When it comes to adding in-deck lighting, Fiberon offers several options to seamlessly blend with the design of your composite deck. All options feature LED warm lighting that provides both functional and aesthetic benefits. In addition, you can manage the lighting using your smartphone, Amazon Alexa or Google Home device.
Post Cap Lights
Post cap lights like the Pyramid Cap Halo light are a popular choice for in-deck lighting. These lights are installed on top of deck posts, providing ambient lighting for your deck, railing and stairs. There are two types of light options in post cap lights: halo and downward lights. The difference between these two lighted deck posts is where the light is directed. Halo lights project light outward, while downward lights provide illumination to the ground below. Both options are great for creating a warm and inviting glow to your deck. Incorporating lighted deck posts into your initial composite deck design will ensure that the necessary electrical wiring and support structure are properly integrated, resulting in a seamless and cohesive lighting solution.
Dome Lights
In addition to post cap lights, dome lights are a great addition to illuminate your deck. These LED deck lights are installed on the side of deck posts to provide focused lighting in specific areas. These lights come in three colors and can be combined with other types of lighting to create your perfect ambiance.
Accent Lights
Accent lights like riser lights and flush mount lights are innovative options for in-deck lighting, adding both functionality and style to your composite deck designs. While these LED deck lights offer a more subtle glow, installing recessed deck lights on the risers of your stairs or deck surface enhances both safety and aesthetics, providing a visually appealing and well-lit pathway.
Wiring and Powering your LED Deck Lights
Planning your lighting in the initial stages of your composite deck design can streamline the wiring process. By integrating the wiring system within the deck components from the start, you’ll achieve a clean, uncluttered and safer deck environment. Fiberon’s plug-in wire system simplifies installation, eliminating the need for cutting, stripping or splicing. Whether you’re tackling the project yourself or working with a professional, this approach reduces both effort and cost.
Once installed, the power supply makes managing your LED deck lights easy. Control them remotely or via your smartphone. Adjust lighting levels with dimmers to set the perfect mood and rely on the dusk-to-dawn photocell to automatically activate lights in the evening and overnight. Your settings are saved, so there’s no need to reset them if the power goes out. The wiring system also features overload and over-temperature protection, ensuring continuous safety.
Incorporating in-deck lighting from the initial stages of your deck design not only adds value to your home but also creates a welcoming and inviting outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment. With the right lighting choices, you can make your composite deck design come alive, blending style and functionality seamlessly.
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