Lighting an outdoor pergola can enhance its aesthetic appeal and make it more functional and enjoyable to use in the evenings. With the right lighting, you can create a warm, inviting ambiance perfect for dining, relaxing or entertaining. When deciding how to light a pergola, there are several important factors to consider such as brightness, fixture types, placement and more. Read on for tips on choosing and installing pergola lighting.
Page Contents
- 1 What are the benefits of lighting an outdoor pergola?
- 2 How bright should pergola lighting be?
- 3 What types of light fixtures can be used?
- 4 Where should pergola lights be placed?
- 5 How do you run electricity to an outdoor pergola?
- 6 What types of switches should be used?
- 7 What types of light bulbs work best?
- 8 How much does installing pergola lighting cost?
- 9 What are the steps to install pergola lighting?
- 10 Tips for great looking pergola lighting
- 11 Conclusion
What are the benefits of lighting an outdoor pergola?
There are many great reasons to add lighting to your outdoor pergola:
- Allows you to use the pergola in the evenings for dining, parties, etc.
- Creates a beautiful, decorative effect at night
- Improves safety and visibility when using the pergola space after dark
- Accentuates architectural and design features
- Enhances ambiance with a welcoming glow
- Sets the mood with lighting color and intensity
The right pergola lighting can turn the space into a gorgeous evening retreat. Thoughtful lighting transforms the area and extends hours of use after the sun goes down.
How bright should pergola lighting be?
Determining the right brightness level for pergola lighting depends on how the space will be used:
- For basic visibility, 10-20 footcandles is usually sufficient
- For good visibility for tasks like dining, 30-50 footcandles is ideal
- For a brighter social gathering area, 50-100 footcandles works well
You can use a light meter app to test different lighting and placements to achieve the brightness you desire. Focus light on seating areas, over head for overall visibility, and to highlight architectural details.
What types of light fixtures can be used?
There are several types of light fixtures well-suited for illuminating outdoor pergolas:
Pendant Lights
Pendant lights add a stylish accent overhead. Opt for pendant lights with weather-resistant materials. Hang them at varied heights for visual interest.
Recessed Can Lighting
Recessed can lights (also called downlights) provide focused task lighting. They can be installed in the pergola roof and are unobtrusive.
Post Lights
Post cap lights attach to pergola posts to direct light right where it’s needed. Go for bollard-style lights or lantern fixtures.
String Lights
For a whimsical look, string lights can be woven throughout the pergola. Choose outdoor-rated string lights and focus them to highlight the space.
Spotlights
Spotlights on the ground or installed on the eaves can provide accent lighting. Uplights also highlight the pergola structure itself.
Wall Sconces
Wall sconces mounted to an exterior pergola wall provide pools of light for visual interest.
Where should pergola lights be placed?
Proper placement of pergola lighting is key to functionality and ambiance. Focus light in these key areas:
- Over seating areas and surfaces for tasks
- Above the table and dining space
- Along pathways for safe access and visibility
- Highlighting architectural details and features
- In corners to illuminate the entire area
- Upwards to provide ambient lighting
Also make sure wiring and fixtures are safely out of the way to prevent hazards.
How do you run electricity to an outdoor pergola?
Safely running power to a pergola takes some planning. Here are some options:
Hardwire Connection
For a permanent solution, hire an electrician to hardwire a connection from your electrical panel to the pergola area. This involves trenching and burying conduit. Make sure wiring is suitable for outdoor use.
Exterior Outlets
If you have an outdoor receptacle on a nearby wall, you may be able to plug in lights using weatherproof extension cords. Make sure the outlet is GFCI protected.
Low Voltage Systems
Low voltage lighting systems run on 12V or 24V power and transform it to normal 120V lighting. The transformer can plug into an indoor or outdoor outlet.
Solar Lighting
Solar powered lights and fixtures absorb sunlight during the day and turn on automatically at night. They are easy to install without wiring.
What types of switches should be used?
Choosing suitable switches helps ensure safe control of pergola lighting:
- Wall switches – For hardwired systems, install a wall switch to easily turn lights on/off.
- Remote controls – Allow control of lighting from a distance for convenience.
- Timers – Set timers so lights turn on/off automatically at set times daily.
- Motion sensors – Motion detecting lights turn on when movement is detected to conserve energy.
- Smart switches – Control lights via smartphone, voice assistant, or smart home system.
Select switches designed to withstand weather and meet electrical codes for outdoor use.
What types of light bulbs work best?
Choosing the right light bulb type is also important for performance and efficiency:
- LED – LED bulbs provide bright, energy efficient lighting. Choose warm white light around 2700K.
- Incandescent – Common for ambient lighting but inefficient. Consider only for dimmable fixtures.
- Halogen – Bright alternative to incandescent. Infrared coating increases efficiency.
- CFL – CFLs are not ideal for cold weather. Light color may be less attractive.
- Smart bulbs – Allow color changing and dimming capabilities via app control.
Look at lumens not watts, and favor LED or halogen for bright, energy saving outdoor lighting.
How much does installing pergola lighting cost?
The cost to add lighting to your pergola depends on several factors:
- Size of the pergola area being lit
- Number and types of lighting fixtures
- Wiring and installation requirements
- Use of solar power vs. hardwiring
- Electrician fees if professional installation is needed
On average, simple DIY pergola lighting can cost $100-$500. More complex installed systems with an electrician can cost $800-$5,000+. Here is a breakdown of typical pergola lighting costs:
| Pergola Lighting Option | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| String lights | $100-$300 |
| Solar spotlights | $100-$400 |
| Low voltage lighting system | $500-$2,000 |
| Hardwired fixtures | $800-$5,000 |
Get quotes from contractors to determine exact costs for professional installation. Also factor in ongoing costs for energy use and bulb replacement over time.
What are the steps to install pergola lighting?
The basic process for installing pergola lighting includes:
- Determine lighting needs – Decide required brightness, ambiance, accent lighting needs, etc.
- Choose fixtures and bulbs – Pick appropriate, weatherproof lighting fixtures and bulb types.
- Plan placement – Map out where lights should be placed for optimal illumination.
- Install wiring – Run wiring from power source and install switches/controls.
- Mount fixtures – Attach all lighting fixtures securely according to product instructions.
- Perform adjustments – Tweak angles, brightness as needed to get the desired lighting.
- Test and enjoy – Turn on lights to test functioning and enjoy your new illuminated space!
Follow all electrical safety practices including turning power off at the breaker when wiring. Also be sure to get any necessary permits.
Tips for great looking pergola lighting
These tips will help you create an eye-catching lighting design for your pergola:
- Layer different lighting types like overhead, accent, and task lighting for depth.
- Uplighting and downlighting together provide visual balance.
- Vary light color and brightness for interest – combine warmer and cooler light tones.
- Highlight architectural features like posts, rafters, and ornamental details.
- Light walkways for safety and visual continuity around the pergola.
- Use dimmers, smart bulbs, and zones to control ambiance.
- Choose a consistent fixture style for a cohesive look.
Conclusion
Lighting is an important factor in creating a functional and inviting pergola space for evening enjoyment. Evaluate your lighting needs and pergola layout to come up with a design plan. Hardwiring or solar power offer long-term lighting solutions. Focus your lighting placement on tasks, aesthetics and safety. The right pergola lights can take your outdoor living space to the next level while adding beauty and extending hours of use after dark.