The term outdoor lights means different things to different people. If you float the term at a builders convention, most will tell you that they hang a light by the front door, one by the back door, and one under the carport if one is built on the home. They will also tell you the reason for the lights on the outside of a home is because they are required by code. Otherwise, they would likely not put even the porch lights on a newly constructed home. The more high-end builders will, of course, have a different answer and will address the different aspects of lighting a property for security, safety and the enhancement of the beauty of the property.

While code requires outdoor lights for reason of safety, the other aspects are no less important if your intent is to have a more attractive and enjoyable quality of life for you and your family. When designing or searching for a new home, people spend countless hours researching and viewing many different spaces, paint colors, types of hardware and the multitude of available appliances. So why not put the same effort into a well conceived outdoor lighting plan.

When lighting your property for safety, be sure to light the paths and walkways that people utilize when wandering about your property at night. This will prevent accidents and also help keep you out of court. You sure don't want to have to defend a lawsuit when someone trips because they couldn't see that extra step on the walk leading to your front door.

Outdoor lights also provide for the security of your property by making it less attractive to a passing intruder. Many police departments believe that a residential property that is equipped with low levels of lighting provided all night around the outside of your home will make a burglar bypass your house and continue to one that is easier for him to hide and go unnoticed.

Finally, a well designed and implemented outdoor lighting plan will beautify your home and make you the envy of your neighborhood. Lighting your home's architectural features, that specimen tree and other landscape or prominent features on your property will help make your outdoor lights more than just some builder's after thoughts.