Security Lighting: While the previous types of outdoor lighting provide security, stand-alone security lighting has a place in your home. Security lighting is purely functional. The lighting is needed when you want your exterior areas lit brightly to be able to see any activity going on in the yard and eliminating shadows. This is the complete opposite effect we create with landscape lighting.
Outdoor lights are made from various materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, and brass. Each of these materials can have many types of finishes put on them to increase the life of the fixture.
Aluminum is the lowest quality of the metals and typically the lowest in cost. If the aluminum is powder-coated, then the life of the fixture will be extended. Stainless Steel looks great and is very durable, but will need continuous cleaning to keep up the appearance and to add to its life.
Brass is made from a combination of copper and zinc and is considered the hallmark in light fixture material. Brass fixtures will last for many years, but it will “patina” or turn darker over time as it is exposed to the outdoor elements. Brass fixtures are wonderful in Oceanside homes. Brass is more expensive than some of the other materials, but is the most long-lasting.
Safety Tip: Having your security lights on motion sensors is a very simple and important part of your first line of home defense.