The Type Of Glass Lighting You Should Never Use Outdoors (It's So Hard To Maintain)

Exterior lighting enhances curb appeal, improves safety, and provides illumination for finding your way in the dark or entertaining outdoors in the evening. As such, selecting the right outdoor lighting isn't just a snap decision. It requires considering the ideal type of fixtures, the amount of light required, and maintenance needs. Which brings us to the type of glass lighting never to use outdoors: glass pendant lights. While they look gorgeous at a front entry, these statement lights can quickly become troublesome for aesthetic, maintenance, and durability reasons.

Although glass pendants are functional and fabulous kitchen island lighting ideas, they are less ideal when used outside your house. Pendant lights can collect dirt, dust, bugs, and spider webs. This will have an impact on both the aesthetics of your front entryway and the performance of your light fixtures. When the pendant lights become coated with dirt and dead bugs, they won't give off enough illumination.

Also, think about it — cleaning and keeping exterior pendant lights clean is not a small job. The process requires turning off the power, climbing a ladder, removing and cleaning the globes, and putting the fixtures back together again after everything is cleaned and dried. After all that effort, it won't take long before your lights need to be cleaned again. Better options include light fixtures that are easier to maintain and designed to withstand the elements.

Fortunately, you can find budget-friendly outdoor lighting ideas that work with any style. Many options are available for wall lighting (including sconces), as well as stairway lights, fence lights, and path lighting. For instance, a pair of sconces is an attractive way to frame the doorway and provide illumination where it is needed. These are also easier to reach for cleaning and maintenance than pendant lights.

Make sure the light fixtures you choose are rated for outdoor use and made to withstand the elements. Any lights used at your entryway, on your porch, or along paths will be exposed to extreme weather conditions. Various light fixtures may be labeled weatherproof or waterproof. Knowing the difference is essential for choosing the right outdoor lighting for your home. Weatherproof lights can handle the sun, wind, and other weather conditions. Meanwhile, waterproof lights can handle being submerged in water and may be better for places that get frequent heavy rains.

Regardless of the type and style of exterior light fixtures you choose for your home, the material used to construct them will affect how well they withstand exposure to the weather. Some of the best materials for resisting corrosion and rust on your exterior lighting include bronze, brass, and quality plastics. Likewise, the material should also be able to resist damage from moisture and fading from the sun for years of reliable performance.