Design is as much an issue on the patio and porch, for the gazebo and deck as it is for the home interior. Outdoor lighting can and should be as attractive as interior lighting, while carrying on the general decor as much as possible. One of the best ways to continue the decor is with outdoor sconce lighting.
What is Sconce Lighting?
Whether used indoors or out, sconces were among the first lighting fixtures. Originally designed to hold candles, sconces now are designed for electrical lighting and solar powered lighting.
Antique Candle Sconces for Indoor Use, circa 1880
From the beginning, sconce lighting consisted of a base upon which the candle was secured. The base was large enough to catch any wax drippings. The light from the candle was designed to cast the the illumination upward. The base is attached to the wall by an arm long enough to keep the light away from the wall, which could catch fire when using candles.
Modern sconce lighting has evolved into a variety of styles and uses, not only for candles, but true to the original construction. However, when selecting outdoor patio lighting, one must note that generally speaking many styles of outdoor wall lighting fixtures are referred to as sconce lights.
Outdoor Sconce Lighting Fixtures
Above are examples of outdoor sconce lighting fixtures (click picture for purchase details). Often sconce lights are confused with lantern lights. The basic and technical difference is that sconce lighting fixtures have arms that attach to the base of the light so that the actual lighting source is either equal to or above the arm. Lantern lights typically hang, so that the light is below the arm that holds it to the wall.
Most often, but not always, the actual light bulb is attached at the base of a sconce light, while most often, though not always the lantern light bulb is attached at the top of the fixture.
Selecting the Fixtures
Although early sconces did not have a top or cap over the light source, they were primarily used indoors. With an outdoor sconce lighting fixture it is always best to purchase a fixture with a top or cap that protects the light source from the elements, particularly if the fixture is not located in a covered environment. Water from rain, snow or ice should not be able to collect inside the fixture or the cover or puddle around the base. This could create problems with the wiring, if electric, or create rust over time if water puddles on a regular basis.
As an example the silver sconce to the above right has a covered top and the base is slightly smaller than the top of the light. This is a good selection because the water cannot puddle. The four previous examples are also designed for the water to run off rather than collect.
Where to Use Outdoor Sconce Lighting
Outdoor sconce lighting can be used anywhere if careful selections are made. Most often sconce lights are used as outdoor wall lighting, with the emphasis on wall.
Most patios and decks are attached to the home structure. As such there is an exterior wall that is ideal for the sconce lighting application. In another instance, such as the gazebo, using sconce lighting on the support posts can create quite an ambiance. And, of course on the front porch or the back porch, we have seen sconce lighting fixtures for years.
In most cases, it must be noted that sconce lights are used with electricity. This is only natural as there is using accessibility to electrical wiring. However, one must be aware that solar powered outdoor lighting is available in the sconce style.
Solar Powered Outdoor Sconce Lighting
When selecting sconce fixtures that are solar powered, it is important to remember that there must be direct sunlight throughout the day. Most sconce fixtures or outdoor wall lighting fixtures have a small cell located on the top or the cap. These lights are best used in an area that is not covered as direct sunlight during the day is needed for the light to function at night.
In some cases solar lights now have a solar cell panel that is connected to the lighting fixture by a cord, allowing the cell to be placed several feet away from the actual light. If considering this type of power supply, it is essential to make certain there is a well lit place for the cell that is within range of the light. Often a light fixture may be placed on the porch and the solar collecting cell can be placed on the porch roof. Again, while this is becoming more common, especially in garden lighting with trees blocking the sunlight, it is essential to know if it is possible in a given situation and if the cord from the cell to the light fixture is of sufficient length.