Hardscape Lighting

Over the past few years several outdoor lighting manufacturers have developed their own version of the hardscape/under-cap fixture. A superior alternative to the rope light, these are fixtures designed to be hidden, installed linearly, and cast light generally downward. It started out as a halogen/incandescent fixture and has morphed into a pretty nifty LED product.

These photos are from Kichler Lighting

These fixtures are very versatile. To name a few uses, we can install them under a cap at the top of a retaining wall and allow the light to wash down the wall to show the texture of the rock while accenting the landscape or flower beds below. We can also install them under step caps to illuminate a set of steps without glare. When installed below benches they can shine onto a deck or patio seating area. But one of my favorite uses is to install them under hand rails on decks or steps to cast light down onto the surface.

We have these fixtures available to us in lengths of 3” to 18” and they are usually less than a ½” wide so we can use them in all kinds of locations.

I’m not a fan of rope light, and this product allows us to get a better and more durable effect than rope light can provide. Another interesting product to look out for is LED light tape. The kinks are still being worked out for outdoor use, but the potential is promising as another flexible option for hardscapes.

These products are actually simple to install – provided they are worked into the hardscape as it is being constructed. If the hardscape installers or home owners think about these applications before everything is done, the installation is easier and therefore more cost effective. But don’t be deterred – we have had much success installing these fixtures after the fact, as well.

When you are ready to tackle that hardscape project, let us know and we’ll design and install the proper hardscape fixtures to insure your project turns out great.