How to Install Chic Outdoor Lighting for Under $500

I have two main reasons for outdoor lighting - security and appearance. There are a few ways to have outdoor lighting; finding what you want for limited cost is the trick. Taken from personal experience, here are three ways to install outdoor lighting for under $500.

Stake Lighting

Here's an easy way to have outdoor lighting with limited cost. These lights are easy to install and go just about anywhere:

- Buy the lighting kit (either solar or electric).
- Dig a trench, 6" deep from the house along the line of the lights.
- Unpack the kit and lay the wire along the trench.
- Assemble and connect the lighting per manufacturer's instructions.

Time: Under two hours; cost: $60 - $150.

Motion Lighting

There are two issues I wanted addressed with my home - security and electric efficiency. This answers both. At the local hardware store I bought an outdoor security light kit with a motion sensor and timer. Here's the easy installation:

- Turn off the breaker to the outdoor lights (always do this).
- Unscrew the bulb and then the screws or bolts holding the light fixture in place.
- You will then need a strong knife or large flat head screwdriver to loosen the fixture from the house because of the old seal holding into place.
- Cut the wires close to the back of the fixture. Be sure to keep the wires separate and marked.
- Unpack the kit from the box and follow the instructions provided.

Time: Around 30 minutes; cost: $50 for the kit.

Landscape Lighting

Here's an outdoor lighting idea using limited cost and some imagination. You will need:

- The transformer.
- The wiring.
- The bulbs.
- Clip-on sockets.
- Wire screen.
- Any usable framing (fire brick, chimney blocks, chimney toppers, stones, etc.).

Here's what you do:

- Bring home your supplies.
- Dig holes where the lights are going (6" - 8" deep).
- Connect the transformer to an outdoor outlet.
- Dig your trench 6" deep and lay the wire.
- Connect the light sockets to the wiring.
- Screw in the bulbs and make sure they work.
- Place the framing around the light and secure in place with dirt.
- Tamp down the dirt and bury the wire.
- Cut the screen to size and place over the framing to protect the light.

Time: Under two hours; cost: $100 - $150.

These three outdoor lighting projects can really improve the look and security of your home for limited cost.