How Far Apart Should Pathway Lights Be?

The recommended spacing for pathway lights is between 5 and 15 feet apart. This distance allows the lights to enhance garden paths and driveways without unnecessary glare. However, the distance will depend on the size of the path light and the lighting needs of the area.

For example, if you are using pathway lights for security purposes, spread the lights 5 to 6 feet apart. If the lights install in a yard or garden, spread them 6 to 8 feet apart.

While you do not have to follow the exact distance, it is important not to add light to every inch of the path. Adding too much outdoor light can overwhelm the space and remove the welcoming appeal to your home or space. If you need help with proper spacing, hire a professional to help with the lighting installation.

Where are the best places to install Pathway Lights?

Deciding where to place the pathway lights is always important as well. Some of the best locations include:

• Walkways or Driveways: Create a more natural look by installing them on both sides of the path to guide the guests to the home. Space the lights about 8 to 10 feet to eliminate glares.
• Around Yard’s Key Features: Highlight the focus points of your yard by lining the lights up around them. Space your path lights far enough to avoid cast shadows to the features.
• Steps or Slopes: Showcase stairways by adding pathway lights at the beginning and end of the staircase for guests to see. The pathway lights will prevent injury and will highlight the home!
• Entrances & Exits: Install path lights near the entrances and exits to provide a safe route. This is important for guiding others in and outside your space.

You should consider common factors before placing and installing the path lights. Some of these factors include:

• Weather Conditions
• Materials of the Path
• Fixture Style
• Length and Width of the Path
• Weather Conditions

The various weather and seasonal changes can have an impact on your lights. Since these conditions can damage the lights, it is important to have weather resistant lights. Knowing the weather patterns is also important for spacing as well.

During seasons when plants will foil, it is best to space the lights closer together. In the winter, it is best to space the lights further apart because snow reflects light.

Materials of the Path

The materials that the path is made of also matter in terms of the spacing. Paths made with smooth surfaces can reflect light better, allowing you to space the lights wider. Paths that have rougher or darker materials will absorb more light. This means you will must space the lights near darker paths closer together.

Fixture Style

The style and type of fixture that is used for a landscape can also play a party in the spacing of the lights. Lights that are shorter in length (12 to 18 inches tall) typically produce a smaller pool of light. Narrow beams of light can install closer together without much fear of light overlap.

Larger lights (18 to 26 inches tall) are better for bigger landscapes as an energy efficient option. Larger lights include solar lights and many LED path light models. They provide a brighter beam and wider beam angle distribution.

Length and Width of the Path

The length and width are the main factors in the spacing of the pathway lights. If the path is narrow, the lights must be closer together. This prevents the creation of dark spots and helps to retain brightness.

If the path is wider, the lights can be spaced further apart. Since the space is wider, the lights are able to illuminate larger spaces without as many creating gaps.

Pathway lights should be about 14 inches from the ground. This will provide balance and give a uniform look. This height will produce a direct light beam for people to see and walk. Lights that do not have the proper height can cause glare and shadows.

It is also important to adjust the light to be taller than plants. You can avoid foliage covering your lights by installing a light taller than the vegetation.

No, low voltage landscape lights are not the only ones to use. One of the more popular choices of path lights is solar panel path lights. Solar path lighting harvests sunlight to illuminate paths and landscapes. This is a more energy efficient process than batteries and internal drivers.

Since solar path lights emit a softer glow, it is best to place them closer together. Placing them closer together create more uniform illumination. Solar path lights also tend to use high voltage. While solar landscape lights are more popular, they tend to be more expensive than other alternatives.

Low voltage path lights are a cheaper option but are also less efficient. Instead, they are mostly hardwired into your home’s electrical system. Low voltage path lights provide continuous light no matter the weather or time of year.

Find a variety of solar and low voltage path lights today at HomElectrical!

The spacing of pathway lights is recommended between 5 and 15 feet apart. However, you can always set the lights to suit your preferences and needs.