|
IP Rating |
First Digit |
Second Digit |
Protection Description |
|
IP00 |
0 |
0 |
No protection against solids or liquids |
|
IP23 |
2 |
3 |
Protection against solid objects > 12.5 mm and vertically falling raindrops at up to a 60° angle |
|
IP44 |
4 |
4 |
Protection against solid objects > 1 mm and splashing water from all directions |
|
IP55 |
5 |
5 |
Dust-protected and protection against water jets from all directions |
|
IP65 |
6 |
5 |
Dust-tight and protection against low-pressure jets of water from all directions |
|
IP66 |
6 |
6 |
Dust-tight and protection against powerful jets of water, making it suitable for ship decks or environments with heavy water exposure |
|
IP68 |
6 |
8 |
Dust-tight and protection against continuous immersion in water under specified conditions |


How to
CHOOSE AN OUTDOOR LIGHT
Your ultimate guide to choosing outdoor lighting to suit your needs.


The right outdoor lighting enhances your home’s exterior, offering ambience, safety, and a chance to showcase your space at night.
Start by thinking about how you use each zone - is it for relaxing, entertaining, or simply moving through? From garden features and alfresco dining through to paths and entryways, the right lighting defines your outdoor lifestyle.
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Material suitability
Your environment matters. In coastal or humid locations, salt and moisture can speed up corrosion. That’s why we recommend coastal-rated fittings for exposed areas - like those in our Made By Mayfair Seaside range - designed to resist wear and stay looking great over time.
All of our coastal-rated lights are backed by a 5 year-warranty.
Types of outdoor lighting
Each part of your exterior benefits from a different lighting approach. Here’s how to think about it:


House
Make a strong first impression with lighting that’s both decorative and practical. Wall lights or ceiling lights near the entrance enhance safety and welcome guests, while outdoor pendants add warmth to alfresco spaces.


Garden
Create contrast, texture, and depth using spike spots, bollards, and deck lighting. Highlight trees, paths, or water features and make installation easy with our DIY Quick Connect System. Choose from 12V, 24V or go wireless with solar.


Solar Lighting
Harness daylight to light your space after dark. Solar lights recharge during the day and require no wiring - just place them where you want soft, automatic illumination.


Flood Lights
For larger spaces or architectural details, floodlights provide broad, powerful light. Often used for security, they offer clear visibility and peace of mind.
How to install garden lighting
Security Lighting
Motion-activated lights deter intruders and provide added security by illuminating entry points and dark areas around your home. They also enhance night-time safety by increasing visibility and reducing the risk of trips or falls.
Sensors
Add sensors to existing fittings for automated security. Install near gates, entrances, or garage doors to react to movement and increase visibility when needed.
Create an outdoor room
Use clever lighting placement to create usable outdoor spaces - day and night.
Your outdoor space can be as functional and stylish as any interior. Layering lighting is key: string lights add mood, deck lights improve safety, and sconces elevate architectural detail. Together, they shape a space that’s usable day and night.


Outdoor Heating
Radiant heaters use infrared waves to deliver targeted warmth where it matters most. They're ideal for patios, pergolas, and alfresco zones where consistent warmth helps you enjoy your space all year round.


Outdoor Fans
Enjoy breezy entertaining. Outdoor fans offer comfort and airflow on warm days and help deter insects. Available in coastal-rated finishes for long-lasting performance.


Festoon Lighting
Perfect for gatherings big or small, festoon lights bring charm and character. Drape them across fences, pergolas, or trees to create a soft glow that makes any evening feel special.


What is an IP Rating?
Do I need an electrician to install my garden lighting?
Let an expert install your outdoor lighting
Do I need to clean my outdoor lighting?
Explore our range of Haus cleaning products here.
Ensure safe movement around the exterior of your home
Disclaimer
*For professional installation advice, please speak to your local licenced electrician.
SECURITY
Enhance your safety and peace of mind with motion-activated security lights that deter intruders and illuminate critical areas like entrances and dark corners. For safe movement around your property at night, pathway lights and step lights guide your way and prevent accidents, all while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Choose security lighting that suits your needs and provides lasting protection throughout the night.
SENSORS
Motion sensor lighting stands out as the most effective home security lighting method, activating automatically upon motion detection to discourage potential intruders and signal the presence of visitors or animals. Strategic placement, such as near gates, garage doors, and both front and back entrances, is crucial for maximising their effectiveness.


You’ll be amazed by the difference the right lighting design and placement can make to the look and feel of your home, but achieving the ideal balance between the aesthetic and the functional can be very tricky. So why not call in the professionals?
As lighting specialists, Beacon Lighting gives you the choice of three design services that will transform your home into a designer dream.
Perfect for a home makeover, renovation or new build, check out our inspiring lighting design services.
Your local Beacon store team can also arrange our in-home and in-studio consultations over a Zoom video call for you.







