Patio umbrella lights can be a great way to extend backyard fun. By adding illumination to your patio, you can continue to enjoy your patio furniture long after the sun has gone down.

Patio umbrellas are a charming way to add shade and comfort to any patio, yard or deck. However, once the sun has set, a shade umbrella can be somewhat superfluous. Rather than removing, or just ignoring your umbrella come evening, installing lighting on a patio umbrella turns it into a useful and beautiful decoration that extends your outdoor enjoyment well into the evening hours.

Patio umbrella lights come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials, each with their own advantages and drawbacks.

Umbrell Led Lights

Umbrella lighting can utilize LED lights, incandescent lights, or old-fashioned flame lanterns. LED lights are becoming a highly popular choice in home decorative lighting. They are smaller than incandescent bulb lights, longer lasting and very inexpensive. In addition, insects are less attracted to the glow of an LED light, a definite advantage when used outdoors. They burn brightly for their small size while generating minimal heat, making them safe even when positioned close to the canvas of an umbrella. The white lights give off a cold, bluish glow that some people find unattractive, although they are also available as colored lights or with colored shades or covers. Incandescent lights come in white, colors or covered varieties and have a soft, warm glow similar to indoor lighting. They can get warm over time and should not be placed directly adjacent to flammable or heat sensitive fabrics or objects.

Umbrella Candle Lights

Candles, lanterns and oil lamps rely on burning flammable substances to produce light. This is the most basic form of illumination, requiring nothing beyond the lamp, oil or candles and matches. The light is warm and soft, but can produce smoke and is almost certain to attract insects. Lanterns that use burning oil or candles should be placed and monitored carefully, due to the risk of fire. A safer alternative might be ‘flameless candle’ lights, which imitate the flicker of firelight.

Patio umbrella lighting can take several forms. The simplest is string lighting, a variant of old fashioned Christmas style fairy lights. They can be a single string, attached to the outer edge of the umbrella or wrapped around the umbrella pole, or a radial string designed to attach to the spokes of the umbrella. String lights are available in a wide variety of styles and colors. Many string lights feature molded plastic covers, such as flamingos, dragonflies or other designs, making them useful for themed parties or any occasion on which whimsical or unusual lighting is desired. String lights are also available with miniature Asian paper-lantern covers, for an elegant, understated look.

As with holiday lights, try to purchase string lights that stay on even when one or two bulbs have broken or burnt out to avoid having to replace the entire string when one bulb fails. Lantern-style lights can be hung from the spokes of a patio umbrella for concentrated lighting, though care must be taken to choose lighting that is not too heavy for the umbrella supports. Chandelier or pole lights are affixed to the center pole of the umbrella, and can be raised or lowered as needed. This can be particularly useful for activities such as playing cards late into the evening. They can be a simple lighted disk, or an elaborate multi-bulb sconce. Chandelier lights give a classic look to outdoor decorating, particularly suited to formal events such as evening weddings, but require removing the umbrella pole from its stand to install and remove.

Umbrella String Lights

Outdoor patio umbrella lights can be powered by batteries, electricity or solar batteries. Solar power lights can be placed anywhere, but depend on several hours of direct sunlight to charge the battery fully and may not charge properly on overcast days. Electric lights plug into any outlet or extension cord and are most suitable for patio sets located near the house outlets or an outdoor generator. Battery powered lights can be strung anywhere without regard to outlets or available sunshine, though keeping a spare package of batteries nearby might be advisable.

A patio umbrella with lights is a wonderful way to extend your patio entertaining or relaxing late into the evening without being dependent on harsh flood or porch lights. A patio umbrella light is available in a variety of styles and powering formats and can be as elaborate or as simple as your budgeting or entertaining needs require.

In addition to providing a festive air about the patio and garden areas, they also provide a source of security with the flip of a switch. A party atmosphere can be enhanced by using decorative theme covers and or highlighting functions such as the dance floor or bar with specific colors. You can choose whimsical fun patio string lighting or go for an elegant sophisticated look.

Design Choices

Three of the most popular types of string lighting from which to choose include hanging lanterns, hanging bulbs and rope lights. Some people are only looking for lighting that provides a warm glow, while others are interested in bright light for security or outdoor grilling. Hanging lanterns can add a charming effect providing bright light for festive occasions.

Hanging String Patio Lights

Hanging bulbs will also provide strong light using higher wattage than rope lights. For intimate low lighting, select the soft glow of rope lights. Additional types of string lighting include LED light sets and bulbs, C9 or C7 strings and bulbs, globe light sets and mini lights. Look for lighting at home improvement stores locally or visit lighting websites online. If you are buying locally, you can save on taxes by purchasing in another county with lower rates. Watch for deals online with free shipping offers and most sites do not charge any tax.

Choosing Lights for your Needs

Above all people want the best looking lights, at the least expensive price and any duel purpose would be a plus. If you plan to entertain often then you should probably select lighting that not only provides light but also looks festive and adds to the look of the exterior design of your home. The only real limitation for hanging outdoor string lights is that they must be plugged into at least one outdoor socket. Read the manufacturers recommendations; some can piggyback up to three strings on one socket.

Bulbs String Lights

Take a few measurements before getting serious about shopping; you will have a better idea of what it will cost when you have all the measurements. A good rule of thumb for average costs will be about $40 for 15 feet. Of course, the more detailed designs or expensive materials always run a bit more in cost.

Are you just going to string lights in and around the patio, deck, pool area or did you want to highlight some garden arbors and fountains too? Do not forget safety lighting for railing and staircases. Consider longer lasting commercial grade lighting for any outdoor string light that will be mounted permanently. You save a little time and energy later if you determine an overall design for the whole yard area so it can all be done on one weekend when you already have ladders and equipment out.

It sure is fun to decorate with party theme lights. They help to establish the theme of a party and put guests in the mood for celebrating. Theme lighting can be shaped in cute designs of: leprechauns or shamrocks for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, piñata lights for Cinco de Mayo or red, white and blue for the Fourth of July.

Installing Patio Light Strings

Untangle the lighting strings and lay them out where they will be installed to get a better perspective of how they should be hung. The easiest method for hanging lights is to install hardware hooks at about one foot intervals. Another option is electrical staples; just be sure you are using the proper type for electrical wiring.

An Important Space

The backyard patio can be full of inspiration.  Choosing decorative furniture with dining space, chairs for lounging, and plenty of shade, all contribute to a functional and relaxing place to be.  Take it a level higher by using contrasting but coordinated colors and textures with the fabrics in chairs and pillows; and carefully selecting several types of lighting to illuminate the perimeter, dining space, and even the pathways leading throughout the landscaping.

While lighting is a necessity in order to be able to use the space at night, harsh outdoor spot lights are too bright to create a comfortable atmosphere, blinding guests and creating heavy, unpleasant shadows.

The availability of stylish designer patio lighting today makes this a simple problem to solve.  If we assume that the typical patio has at least one walkway, a space for guests to sit around a table, an umbrella and some landscaping features, which will need a touch of accent lighting. The following are some suggestions for essential outdoor patio lights.

Patio Light Design Ideas

Light to Move By

A subtle glow is sufficient for most patio gatherings at night, allowing sensitive night vision to adjust gradually.  This is especially true for walkways and the perimeters of raised patios.  Having ground lights with low wattage bulbs in these areas is a safety issue, helping people find their way without spraining an ankle or stepping into a flowerbed.

The styles of lights for this purpose range from the contemporary to the rustic, but at night, a simple unobtrusive glow is the most important detail.  The do-it-yourselfer can install a pathway kit with a series of 30-watt halogen lamps, lighting wire, and transformer in a day’s time.

For the patio dining area, a string of low voltage patio lights hung from an umbrella, or attached to the outside edge of a raised patio will offer the perfect illumination for an intimate gathering of friends.

If the cooking is done close by, consider attaching a task light on an adjustable arm next to the cooking surface to avoid spilling out towards the guests.  This is also the ideal spot to hang lantern patio lights.  There are several options for placing these; either from the umbrella, on a nearby railing, or from tree branches if they are present.

If the homeowner wishes to provide light for sports or games at night, spotlights should be used, but aimed away from areas where guests are relaxing if possible.  Also, if there are landscaping elements to be highlighted, carefully placed accent lights with adjustable heads are inexpensive and easy to install.

Easy Solar Light Installation

Designs and Installation

An outdoor patio light will be either hardwired and hooked up to a transformer box, or powered by a solar charged battery.  There are advantages and disadvantages to both.  A hardwired set has no limit on the length of time it can stay on, but requires additional time and effort to install properly.  When the homeowner has many lights to install, an extra transformer box may be needed to handle the total wattage.

With solar lighting, the installation is simple, and wiring is almost never needed.  The batteries charge from the UV rays of the sun, which are present even in cloudy weather, and there is no limit to the number of lights the sun can power up.  However, you have less control over these lights, as they do rely on getting enough sun for the maximum charge, which typically lasts from dusk to dawn.

That said, both types of the patio light are made in every style from the simple to the bizarre.  Be sure yours make a personal statement, and provide practical illumination for your outdoor space.

First, you may love and appreciate the environment.  You want to make good choices, based on enjoying and protecting the outdoors at the same time.  Solar lights are an excellent choice for the person who is environmentally-conscious.  You can have your lighting as often or as consistently as you wish, without any impact on your environment.  As they operate by generating the natural power of the sun, nothing is ever wasted and no energy is ever drained for their use.

Fresh & Clean & Easy to Install

Second, solar light is pure, fresh, and clean.  This means that no matter how much solar powered patio lights you want, it will not produce any excess heat or fumes like other common forms of lighting.  This makes solar light the safest choice for families with small children and pets.  There is no risk of danger from burns or inhalation, even when youngsters or pets play around them.  The safety factor also extends to the absence of potentially-dangerous cords.  As they do not require electricity, there are no electrical cords to pose a risk of accidents.  It is definitely the safest form of lighting you can buy.

You also appreciate every opportunity to be economical.  You want to enjoy every minute of life, while also being thrifty.  Solar lighting certainly meets this standard.  As it works from the light of the sun, you will not have to deal with increased home-energy bills.  Your patio can be nicely lit for however long you want, without any additional cost to you.  After you have purchased and installed the lights, you will never need to deal with any other cost, except an occasional battery.

Solar powered Patio Lights

If you are like most people, versatility is important to you.  An added bonus of solar patio lighting is that it has other uses as well.  For example, you might have a beautiful garden that you would like to have illuminated so everyone can enjoy it during the evening hours.  Your special flowers and plants can be seen and appreciated long after the daylight is over.  You may also have a walkway or driveway that your family and guests use at night.  Good lighting will make these areas much safer.  Your company and family can see clearly to walk and drive.

Modern and Easy

While all of these practical reasons for installing lighting are very important, making your outdoor areas more attractive is equally important.  When it comes to appearance, you have plenty of options.  First, there are many styles to choose from, so selecting the style that looks best on your patio or other location is an easy task.  Second, you can have plain lights, nearly any solid color, multi-color, or a lovely mix-and-match assortment.  Whichever suits you the most, their daytime appearance is sure to be as beautiful as their nighttime glow.

Now that you have decided to include solar-powered patio lights in your outdoor environment, you should know that they are wonderfully simple to install.  Although instructions for the installation process are included in the packaging, knowing in advance how easy it is will end any reservations you may have about this do-it-yourself project.  With a couple of hand-tools and a couple of hours in your spare time,  you can turn your patio into a magical, serene wonderland.  As summer is quickly approaching, this is the very best time to begin enjoying the outdoors.  Your new lighting can make it happen.

Types of Lighting

When looking at the many different types of patio deck lighting, you will see phrases such as fluorescent, incandescent, LED, and solar on the descriptions of the lights. What does all of this mean? How can you get the most output of light for your money? Are you looking to conserve energy? Answering all of these questions will assist you in picking out the proper style of lighting for your needs.

Impression of Deck Lighting

Led Deck Lighting

If you are the energy conservation minded type, LED patio lights might be just what you are looking for. LED lights are unique in that they do not require an electrode in order to operate properly, so they can last nearly 10 times longer than incandescent lighting. Of course, the quality of light you get from an LED light system depends on the number of LEDs in each lamp, so for quality lighting, look for lamps that have at least 10 LEDs per lamp. This will give you great lighting while minimizing the amount you have to pay on your electricity bill.

On the other hand, if you still want to save money by not using electricity for your patio party lights at all, solar lighting might be something you should consider. Solar lighting is only viable if your deck is in an area that gets plenty of sun during the day. Photo-voltaic cells within each lamp soak up the suns UV rays and a special battery converts this to energy that can be turned on when needed. One myth surrounding solar lighting is that it cannot last as long as traditional lighting, but great strides have been made in the solar technology field to improve just how long these lights can stay light. In fact, many of the solar deck patio lights available on today’s market can stay lit for three days on just one complete charge of their battery.

Solar Deck Lights

Of course, solar lighting tends to be expensive to set up and requires the right conditions, so if you are not energy conscious, you might want to consider other options entirely. Fluorescent lighting is probably the most popular option because it is not as harsh as incandescent lighting and it requires less maintenance, but it not as maintenance free as an LED set up. However, this type of lighting can be found in many different sizes and styles, which is why it is such a popular option when considering cost versus light output.

Whatever style of lighting you choose, make sure it will suit your needs. Before purchasing any lighting, you need to consider the size of your deck and how well you want it to be lit. If you are comfortable with it remaining semi-dark after the lights have gone down, choose a light set that does not have a very high wattage output. If you want the desk to remain as lit as it was during the day, you will need to find a set of lights that guarantees high wattage as well as the ability to last for several hours. Your costs will depend on the style of lighting you choose, so keep this in mind when looking as well.