Outdoor Lights

IP44 at minimum, which protects against splashing water from any direction. Choose IP65 for exposed walls that take driving rain. Lights tucked beneath a porch canopy can be IP44, but anything facing the weather directly benefits from the higher rating and lasts longer. Check the rating on the product page, as an outdoor style does not guarantee weatherproofing.

A wall lantern should be roughly a quarter to a third of the door's height. Mount it so its centre sits about 165–180 cm from the ground, on one side of the door or on both. A light that is too small looks lost from the street, so size up if in doubt.

PIR motion sensors save energy and help deter intruders by switching on only when someone approaches, while dusk-to-dawn sensors switch lights on automatically at nightfall. Angle motion sensors away from the street and neighbours' windows to avoid false triggers from passing cars and cats. Adjustable timers set how long lights stay on after triggering.

Around 400–800 lumens suits most front doors, enough to find keys and see visitors clearly without dazzling. Warm white of 2,700–3,000K looks welcoming and suits brick and stone. Much brighter lights look harsh and spill into neighbours' windows. Shielded fittings direct light downwards, reducing glare and light pollution, and are kinder to wildlife too.