What are best pergola lights?

Adding lights to a pergola can take the structure from drab to dramatic. Pergola lights add ambiance and allow you to use the space day and night. With the right pergola lighting, you can transform the area into a gorgeous outdoor living space or dining area. There are many options when it comes to pergola lights, so it’s important to choose the right type and placement to accentuate the pergola and create the look you desire. This article will discuss the different types of pergola lights, pros and cons of each, and provide recommendations for the best pergola lighting setup.

Types of Pergola Lights

There are several main options when it comes to lighting a pergola:

String Lights

String lights, also known as fairy lights, are small bulbs connected by wire. They are usually LED or incandescent. String lights are very versatile and can be woven through pergola beams, wrapped around columns, or crisscrossed along the top of the pergola. Pros of string lights:

• Inexpensive
• Easy to install
• Set the mood and ambiance
• Come in various bulb sizes, shapes, and colors
• Dimmable

Cons:

• Don’t provide much illumination
• Can look cluttered if not installed correctly
• Exposed bulbs may burn out quickly

Chandelier

Chandeliers are suspended light fixtures that can range from small and understated to large and ornate. Hanging a chandelier from the center of a pergola can create a dramatic look.

Pros:

• Create a focal point
• Come in many styles to match the pergola
• Provide ambient lighting

Cons:

• Usually only provide light directly below the fixture
• Higher upfront cost than string lights
• Require wiring through the pergola

Recessed/Flush Mount

Recessed downlights or flush mount fixtures can be installed directly into the pergola beams. The lights are subtle but provide direct illumination wherever needed.

Pros:

• Direct the light exactly where it’s needed
• Streamlined, integrated look
• Various styles and finishes available

Cons:

• Require wiring and installation in pergola beams
• Usually only offer downward directional lighting

Swag Lights

Swag lights feature decorative lamps or pendants suspended from draped cords. They can be hung from the tops and sides of pergolas.

Pros:

• Softer, ambient light
• Adjustable height and placement
• Variety of lamp styles and sizes

Cons:

• Wiring may be visible
• Bulb is exposed
• Only provide localized pools of light

Landscape/Path Lights

Low-voltage landscape lighting can accentuate plants around a pergola. Path lights can illuminate walkways in and around the structure.

Pros:

• Highlight key design features
• Create a soft glow
• Low voltage for safety

Cons:

• May require a separate transformer and wiring
• Provides localized, not overall, illumination

Post Lights

Lights mounted to pergola posts or columns can provide both form and function. Styles range from simple caps to decorative sconces.

Pros:

• Integrated look
• Can match style of pergola
• Provide light around perimeter

Cons:

• Only illuminate nearby area, not overall space
• Require wiring through posts

Pergola Lighting Tips and Considerations

Here are some key factors to help determine the best pergola lighting for your space:

Purpose

Consider how you want to use your pergola when lit. Do you need bright task lighting for dining or entertaining? Or do you want a soft glow to set the mood? More focused lighting works better for the former, while string lights are ideal for ambient lighting.

Placement

Place lights to maximize their impact. Illuminating the corners or perimeter of a pergola provides definition. Hanging pendant lights over a table focuses light where needed. Uplighting key architectural or landscape features creates dramatic effects.

Style

Select lighting fixtures that match your pergola’s style. For a Craftsman pergola, choose exposed Edison bulbs or vintage pendants. For a contemporary pergola, sleek recessed lighting or modern geometric pendants would complement the structure.

Dimmability

Many pergola light fixtures are dimmable, allowing you to control the brightness as needed. Dimmers also let you change the mood – bright for cleaning up after dinner, dim for relaxing.

Color Temperature

You can select bulb colors from warm white to daylight. Warm white light (2700-3000K) is flattering for evening dinners. Cooler light (5000K) is better for tasks like reading or playing games.

Power Source

Low voltage landscape lights often run on a separate transformer. For brighter lights, consider installing an outdoor receptacle in your pergola to plug lights into. Hardwired lights will require an electrical contractor.

Durability

Look for pergola lighting that is rated for outdoor use and weather-resistant. Fixtures should be resistant to moisture, dust, insects, and impacts. Sturdy mounting is important for longevity.

Safety

For pathways and steps around your pergola, lighting is key for safety and visibility at night. Opt for fixtures rated for wet locations near pools or hot tubs. Use LED bulbs to reduce fire risks.

Top Picks: Best Pergola Lights

Based on the key considerations above, here are my top recommendations for lighting your pergola:

Best Overall String Lights: Brightown Outdoor String Lights

These weatherproof, shatterproof string lights are perfect for lighting up a pergola. The industrial Edison-style bulbs provide a warm glow. You can connect up to 10 strands together to cover a large area. Dimmable and available in different lengths.

Best Ambiance Chandelier: Hampton Bay Vineyard Chandelier

This gorgeous chandelier lends European villa elegance to a pergola. The dangling curved arms holding exposed bulbs can be adjusted to achieve the perfect drape. Provides bright, ambient lighting from above. Damp rated for covered outdoor use.

Best Flush Mount: WAC Lighting Pergola Light

These low profile LED lights are designed specifically for pergola installation. The circular shape provides even illumination across the base of the light. Fits perfectly between rafters. Choose warm or cool LEDs.

Best Swag Light: Permasteel Round Cafe Light Kit

Create a bistro ambiance under your pergola with these pendant lights. Includes a cords, lamp holders, and bulbs for easy DIY hanging. Choose from 1-3 pendant kits. Bulbs are easily replaceable. Weathertight construction.

Best Landscape Light: LOFTEK LED Outdoor Pathway Lights

Illuminate garden paths, steps, and landscape features around your pergola. These LED path lights provide a warm glow and are very energy efficient. The stake design makes them easy to position. Waterproof rating.

Best Post Light: Specialty’s Defiant Carriage Light

This classic post-mounted light has scroll and acorn details for timeless style. Provides directed light up and down your pergola posts. Uses an LED lamp for energy savings and long life. Wet location rating.

Conclusion

The ideal pergola lighting illuminates both form and function – accenting the architecture while providing light where needed. A combination of lighting types, like string lights overhead and post lights lining the perimeter, can create a magical effect. Just be sure to choose durable fixtures designed to withstand weather and wet conditions. With the right pergola lighting, your outdoor oasis can truly shine any time of day or night.