Exterior lighting is a crucial safety and security measure for most facilities, including apartment buildings. However, apartment complex owners and managers have a few extra considerations to ensure their exterior lighting produces the desired results.

Here are some tips to help you with your exterior lighting project.

Choose the Right Lighting Fixtures

Lighting fixtures are typically rated for either indoor or outdoor use. Fixtures designed for exterior lighting are resistant to rain, heat, wind, dust, snow, and other weather conditions. While you do not want to ignore lighting fixture ratings like UL and ETL, quality is another key aspect. It will help ensure the fixtures can stand up to the elements. Some materials to look for include silicone gaskets, polycarbonate lenses to avoid shattering, and rust-resistant housings.

Decide on Placement Based on Lumen Output

The lumens output typically dictates the fixture’s placement. Exterior lights with a more powerful lumens output are typically placed at higher locations to prevent the light from being too bright or harsh. Bulbs with a lower lumens output have some flexibility in placement. Since the light is dimmer, the fixtures can be located at eye level or placed higher up on a wall. However, there is a potential downside to placing bulbs with a lower lumen rating higher up. The light tends to be widely dispersed making the fixture ineffective at properly illuminating an area.

Cooler Temperatures are Better Than Warmer Ones

Color temperature and rendering are two aspects apartment building owners want to pay attention to with exterior lighting. Warm color temperatures can give everything a slightly yellowish tinge that is generally unflattering. Not only are cooler color temperatures more visually appealing, but they can also make exterior objects more visible. Safety is always paramount in apartment buildings. Lights with cooler color temperatures can help ensure residents can safely navigate their way through the complex at night.

Watch Out for Light Pollution

Some light pollution is unavoidable in apartment buildings. Light pollution refers to the amount of light that spills into other areas. For example, a neighbor’s residence. To avoid this problem, apartment building owners can take a few preventive measures. In parking lots, aim the light beam down and angled away from windows. It also applies to lights on poles along walkways and sidewalks. Placing the light poles on the opposite side of the widows can also help minimize light pollution.

Exterior LED Retrofits for Apartment Buildings

If you are planning an exterior lighting retrofit or installing outdoor lights in a new apartment building, contact Action Services Group for assistance. We are a LED retrofit project management company that offers a turn-key solution including product selection and installation. Call 610-558-9773, email [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.