The deck can be utilized long after the sun goes down, especially during the warm, summer months. Deck lighting is usually used for 3 specific purposes:

• Safety lighting allows you to walk around without tripping over furniture
• Talk lighting shines light on specific areas of the deck or grill
• Security lighting lights up the entire deck so no one can approach the property if uninvited

You’ll want to design a lighting system that performs all of the above tasks to enhance the look of your deck. Integrate accent lighting along the posts, railing, stairs and other aspects of the deck.

Line-voltage deck lights are brighter than other lights, but all connections must be made in an electrical box. Cables should also be enclosed and low-voltage can only be installed by a licensed electrician.

Low-voltage deck lights are the most common type of deck lights and are a much safer alternative to line-voltage. Electrical connections for low-voltage deck lights are simpler and require no permit to install.

Solar-powered deck lights require no electrical connections, timers or switches. The only thing you really need is sun shine for 6 hours per day!

If you need lights installed on your deck, contact Cardoso Electrical Services at (781) 246-7700.