For many homes and businesses, security lighting is the first line of defence against trespass and accidents after dusk. When light is cast over driveways, gardens, and entry points upon the detection of movement, these fixtures provide a clear signal to potential intruders that a property is actively monitored.

But how does this technology work, and why is it so important? In this article, we’ll look into the specifics of motion detection and security lights, and the key differences between each energy source sensed. Keep reading to learn more…

Why are security lights so effective?

Security lighting has remained a strong, viable option for many businesses and homeowners because of its ability to remove uncertainty.
By casting light into the cover of darkness, you tip the balance back in your favour, away from unwanted intruders. An illuminated exterior increases the chance of being seen, whether by neighbours, passers-by or CCTV cameras, and makes covert entry far more difficult.

Criminals rarely pick targets under a spotlight, so well-placed floodlights, timers or motion-activated units reduce opportunities for attackers to probe windows, doors, or perimeter fences under cover of night.

Beyond the immediate visual barrier, security lights also help establish a neighbourhood watch mentality. When one property is brightly lit, it raises collective awareness. Neighbours become more alert to movement, discouraging repeat offences in the wider area.

Additionally, security lighting is both cost-effective and low-maintenance. Unlike alarms that rely on occupant response, lights work continuously (or upon demand) to project an aura of occupancy.

How motion sensors work

Motion sensors are devices purpose-built to detect changes in their surroundings, be that light intensity, sound waves, or heat.

A motion sensor is commonly made up of three parts: a sensing module, a control circuit and an output switch.

The sensing module continuously monitors a particular form of energy. These energy forms are:

• Infrared radiation for heat.
• Ultrasonic pulses for sound.
• Microwave emissions for electromagnetic waves.
• A simple infrared beam for active detection.

The control circuit analyses real-time data from the module, comparing it against a stored reference level. A motion sensor relies on sensing a change in stable conditions.

Once the sensor notices these substantive changes (commonly known as a “trigger event”) the control circuit activates the output stage. This may be a solid-state relay or a low-voltage driver for LEDs, though older devices often use mechanical relays to connect mains power.

The light then remains on for a defined period, typically adjustable from a few seconds up to several minutes, before the sensor re-establishes the baseline and turns the lamp off.

Sensitivity settings determine how easily a sensor responds to minor disturbances, allowing for some fine-tuning to avoid false alarms from small animals, wind-blown foliage or passing traffic. Detection range depends on the sensor type and lens design.

Threshold controls (“lux” for light-level sensitivity, and “time” for activation duration) allow homeowners to specify that motion detection only occurs at night or to tailor how long lights remain illuminated.

Motion sensors offer an intelligent activation method for security-lighting systems, providing responsive, energy-efficient illumination exactly when and where it is needed.

What are the different types of motion sensors?

Security lights use a range of sensing technologies to detect movement and activate illumination. As we mentioned earlier, there are four main types of energy forms sensed, but there are five different sensor types. Let’s look at them in more detail:

Passive infrared (PIR) sensors

Passive infrared sensors detect the natural heat energy (also known as infrared radiation) emitted by living bodies.

A PIR unit contains two pyroelectric elements, each monitoring a zone. Under stable conditions, both elements register the same ambient temperature.

When a warm object, such as a person or animal, moves across one zone into the next, the resulting temperature differential generates a small voltage. The sensor recognises this change and triggers the light.

A Fresnel lens array sits over the sensor elements, dividing the field of view into multiple narrow beams. This lens both magnifies infrared wavelengths (typically 8–12 µm for a human body) and extends range.
When an object traverses these beams, the sensor experiences a rapid rise and fall in detected IR energy, indicating motion.

Benefits of PIR sensors:

• Passive operation: emits no energy, so it cannot be seen through glass or walls.
• Good range: typically 8–12 metres with a 90°–120° coverage angle.
• Cost-effective: PIR sensors use low-power, making them the default for domestic floodlights and wall units.

Ultrasonic motion sensors

Ultrasonic sensors emit high-frequency sound waves on a continual basis. These sound waves, usually 40 kHz, are beyond the range of human hearing.

An ultrasonic transducer broadcasts pulses into the detection zone and listens for echoes. When an object moves, it disturbs the time it takes for echoes to return.

The control circuit compares successive echo patterns, noticing any significant changes which signals movement, before switching on the light.

Because sound waves can diffract around corners and through thin partitions, ultrasonic sensors cover complex layouts where line-of-sight may be obstructed.

They can operate in complete darkness and remain unaffected by temperature fluctuations. Ultrasonic sensors are common in automatic doors and indoor security zones, but less so for outdoor lighting due to environmental noise triggers.

Benefits of ultrasonic sensors:

• Active system: continually emits and processes sound pulses.
• Great coverage: up to 20 metres, with wrap-around detection in enclosed spaces.
• Highly sensitive: can detect minor movement, such as slow walking.

Microwave sensors

Operating similarly to ultrasonic motion sensors, microwave detectors instead function on the Doppler-shift principle.

A transmitter emits low-power microwave signals in the 2.4 GHz band into the area under surveillance. Moving objects reflect those waves back, and the receiver compares the frequency of the returned signal to the original. When there are changes in this shift, it indicates motion, thus prompting the sensor to activate the light.

Because microwaves penetrate non-metallic materials, these sensors can “see” through foliage, walls or thin plastic covers, allowing them to excel in large-area coverage and irregular spaces.

They are favoured in high-security or commercial sites where broad coverage and obstacle penetration are priorities.

Benefits of microwave sensors:

• Active system: continuous wave emission like that of ultrasound sensors.
• Great range: up to 15–20 metres, 360° detection possible with appropriate antenna geometry.
• Better visibility: can “see” through things that other sensors cannot.

Active infrared sensors

Active infrared sensors use an emitter and receiver to form an invisible light beam. This narrow beam, typically in the near-infrared spectrum, is continuously shined from the emitter toward a photodiode receiver.

When an object interrupts this beam, the receiver detects a sudden drop in signal and triggers the light.

These systems are great for controlling specific choke points, and are commonly used in garage-door activation, warehouse loading bays, and controlled-entry corridors. However, they are less suitable for open-area monitoring due to line-of-sight requirements.

Benefits of active infrared sensors:

• Accurate in defined zones: any beam interruption counts as motion.
• Immunity: ambient temperature variations and most sources of false heat signatures don’t affect the beam.

Hybrid sensors

Hybrid sensors (also known as dual-technology sensors) combine two detection methods (most commonly PIR and microwave) into a single unit.

Both systems must register motion within a given time window for the light to activate, sharply reducing false alarms.

For example, the PIR circuit monitors thermal changes while the microwave module watches for Doppler shifts. Only when both signals coincide does the control relay close, illuminating the lamp.

This does, however, slightly slow the response time, as both sensors need to process the data. They are also more expensive, and require more complex calibration than single-technology units.

Benefits of hybrid sensors:

• Low false-alarm rate: the dual-technology approach reduces false alarms, making them ideal for high security situations, critical infrastructure perimeters, banks and military sites.

Shop security lighting at Lyco

Now that you understand how security lights and sensors operate, it’s time to take your security up a notch. At Lyco, we have a wide range of security lighting to suit your security needs.

We are the UK’s premier lighting company, providing the latest products from around the world at the very best prices. We are able to dispatch 98% of all orders on the same day they are received.

If you want to know more about our products and services, our team have the knowledge to assist you. Contact us today to learn more.

Shop the best security lights at Lyco today

For more news, information, buying guides, and product advice, check out the Lyco blog…

How Light Works: The Ultimate Guide | Driveway Lighting Tips For Hospitality Venues | IP44 Lighting For Outdoors – Our Top 10

Buying an end of term ‘thank you’ gift for your child’s teacher is never easy. Whilst on the one hand you don’t want to add to the growing pile of chocolates and ‘best teacher’ mugs that will be forming on their desk, you also don’t want to break the bank sourcing an original gift that they’ll actually enjoy.

So this year, why not think outside the box and get them a gift that’s sure to brighten up their summer? Here’s five ‘light’ ideas to get you started…

Cinematic light box

This LED cinematic light box from ed:t is a fantastic gift for a fun-loving teacher who is looking to liven up their classroom or home. The ed:t light box comes with 90 letters, numbers, and symbols, allowing for a truly personalised gift.

< Image to follow from Browser Media >

https://www.lighting-direct.co.uk/edit-battery-operated-led-magnetic-cinematic-light-box-a6-size-rose-gold.html

Solar festoon lights

Nothing says summer quite like outdoor festoons, and these pretty multi-coloured festoons from Cole & Bright are certain to brighten up any garden. Students aren’t the only ones who look forward to the summer holidays, so giving a gift that will help their teacher make the most of their time off is sure to be appreciated.

https://www.lighting-direct.co.uk/suri-solar-colour-changing-led-festoon-lights-20-lights.html

Colour-changing table light

The Orb colour-changing egg table light is a great gift to help your child’s teacher make the most of the long summer break. The colour-changing aspect of this table light means that it will suit any garden and meet the needs of any occasion, whether it’s enjoying a quiet summer evening, or livening up a garden party.

https://www.lighting-direct.co.uk/suri-solar-led-oval-outdoor-ground-feature-light-white.html 

LED solar glass lantern

The rustic seaside style of these lanterns is what makes them stand out as a truly stunning outdoor light. Additionally, the subtlety of these lanterns creates a relaxing and almost magical feel throughout any garden or outdoor area.

https://www.lighting-direct.co.uk/jar-solar-led-glass-lantern.html

‘Dream’ light

Our final gift idea is the ‘Dream’ LED rope light from ed:t – an excellent gift for the more creative and artistic teacher. This light would make a fantastic addition to any classroom to help inspire students and teachers alike.

https://www.lighting-direct.co.uk/warm-white-solar-led-rope-light-10-metre.html

A well-lit driveway can make guests feel truly welcome and safe as they arrive at your premises. As well as its practical benefits, lighting also has the ability to completely change the look and feel of a property’s entrance, delighting guests time after time. The following lighting tips can be applied to virtually any driveway or pathway.

Recessed ground lights

Recessed ground lights are a popular choice for driveways because they are versatile, unobtrusive, and easy to install – they also look great too. Recessed ground lights can either be positioned at regular intervals around the perimeter of a space, or used to highlight a specific entry route or pathway. When choosing ground lights, look for lights with an IP68 rating: This means the lights are totally protected against dust and water, and generally hardy enough to handle the worst of the British weather.

Post and bollard lights

Post and pedestal lights are useful for marking out the perimeter of a driveway or path to highlight the entry and exit routes. They generally sit best when positioned asymmetrically so as to avoid creating a runway effect. The good news is that these fixtures don’t typically become blocked by snow or leaf debris in the same way that recessed ground lighting might, but a possible downside is that they inevitably take up more physical space.

For these reasons, post lights work best in wide open spaces rather than tightly walled boundaries. Try positioning them on top of a wall at either side of the entrance, set on bends to make obstacles visible, including trees, walls, boulders or outdoor seats, or blend into garden shrubs and rockery for a decorative appearance.

Hanging decorative lights

If the entrance walkway is sheltered by tree branches, a canopy, or a pergola, hanging light fittings are a practical yet attractive solution, creating a glowing pool of light on the pathway or patio area below, and adding a dramatic appearance to the area. Similarly, a string of fairy lights, lanterns, or festoons hung above or along the length of a driveway or entrance can create a magical effect.

Wall-mounted motion-sensor lights

Wall-mounted lights with motion sensors can serve as a convenient driveway and pathway lighting solution, particularly when space on the ground is limited. These lights are generally most suitable within car parks and entrance ways. They will automatically turn on as a visitor approaches, distributing light only when it is needed before automatically turning off afterwards – conserving energy and keeping unnecessary illumination to a minimum.

Choosing the right light source for your premises

Solar driveway lighting

Since solar lights draw their energy from the sunlight, they don’t require an electrical supply to operate, which removes any running costs. And because solar lights don’t need to be plugged into a mains source, they can be positioned anywhere, and without needing an electrician. While direct sunlight will provide the best source of energy, most solar powered lights will run efficiently even during overcast spells of weather, albeit to a slightly lesser degree.

Electrical driveway lighting

Compared to solar lighting, electrical lighting offers far brighter illumination, and is typically more durable. Electric lights will also stay illuminated for as long as they’re switched on, while solar lights will require charging between use. We offer a range of 24volt outdoor lighting that doesn’t require an electrician to install, saving you hundreds of pounds. These cables don’t need to be buried and can be extended to include wall lights, ground lights and much more.

Planning lights for your driveway entrance

When planning outdoor driveway and entrance lighting, it is essential to identify potential hazards beforehand. Fixtures should be set along the driveway wherever there are obstacles and obstructions including trees, fences, walls, boulders, dipped and raised land or changes of direction.

In addition, lighting can be used to illuminate ponds, statues, and plants, but be aware that some plants will not survive well in constant bright light so it may be necessary to point the beam away from the leaves to prevent unwanted damage.

For further advice on any product or lighting project, please contact the friendly Lyco sales team here.

Charles Barnett Managing Director

Charles started Lyco in 1995 with just 4 enthusiastic employees and has grown it considerably over the past 25 years. Charles is also the Managing Director of Lighting Direct and newly acquired Online Lighting. He now has a team of 50 lighting experts working on growing Lyco Group to be the UK leader in lighting for both businesses and homes. Away from the office he is a keen cyclist and is proud to have cycled 1017 miles from Lands End to John O’Groats to raise money for a new residential centre for adults with multiple learning difficulties.

The correct office lighting is a key component to creating bright and efficient workspaces. Get it right and things like work fatigue will be reduced while the performance and well-being of the workers who use the space will in turn, improve.

We are now working longer, more intense hours than ever before, so employers are increasingly being encouraged to create work spaces that positively impact their staff. The right lighting, at the right time, in the right place, can improve motivation, productivity, even support a more positive attitude for employees. It will really pay off to take time to consider and plan lighting carefully. A study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering showed that in companies with a higher standard of interior design, productivity can increase up to 36%. Lighting can also play a vital role in a helping company’s reduce their energy and maintenance costs, so it pays to make informed decisions when it comes to lighting in office design.

In this article we are going to explore all aspects of office lighting in depth, covering the following areas:

• Colour temperature
• Desk area lighting
• Brainstorming areas
• Meeting room lighting
• Break out area lighting
• LED lighting

Colour temperature explained

Rather than colours of the rainbow, colour temperatures simply refers to warm or cold light. Colour temperature is measured in units called kelvins and uses a scale that runs from warm to cold. The warmest temperature range is 2000k-3000k and this is used to create an ambient, welcoming atmosphere. Warm lighting is generally dimmer, and used in spaces intended for relaxation and rest. In an office this might be a break room, cafeteria or a reception area. Cooler lighting ranges from 3100K to 6500K and is much brighter and crisp, at the other end of the scale. Cooler lighting is better suited to areas where task lighting is needed, such as offices, garages or display areas. Often it is needed where focused tasks such as writing, working on a computer or drawing are to take place.

Desk area lighting

Using daylight to increase productivity

In an ideal world we would spend all our working time in abundant natural light. The perfect offices would have large windows that would allow natural light to flood in all day long. Sounds good doesn’t it, if a little impractical. Studies have shown that sitting close to a window in an office can have positive effects on employee satisfaction, so what is the ideal solution for offices without many windows? Mimicking natural light through artificial light, is the next best option.

This can be achieved through the use of daylight coloured bulbs. Cool, daylight bulbs are a fantastic alternative to harsh fluorescent lighting that used to be common place in offices. We would recommend bulbs that are 5000K plus in colour temperature to try to replicate true daylight as closely as possible. Studies have shown that the light produced by daylight bulbs:

• Helps prevent eyestrain
• Improves alertness
• Reduces fatigue
• Enhances overall well-being and mood.

As well as improving performance during the day whilst at work, exposure to this bright type of light can also help you to sleep better. It stimulates the brain, and can even affect certain processes in your body such as blood pressure and heart rate. A lack of natural light can make us feel depressed, lethargic and lacking in energy, none of which make for a healthy working environment. These symptoms can be a contributing factor to workplace stress and burnout.

Cooler daylight can also be useful in areas where task lighting is needed. In an office this is required when intricate tasks are being done, or for areas where people use screens regularly. An important consideration with task lighting is making it adaptable for the individuals using it, so that it can be tailored to their needs. This could mean a desk lamp that can be angled, a floor lamp in an area of the office or over head lights that are operated by individual switches. It has been found that giving employees the opportunity to personalise and control lighting, can help them feel more satisfied at work and less stressed.

Brainstorming areas

If your office has a dedicated area or meeting room for brainstorms, pay close attention to the lighting. Choose lights that are too warm and employees might feel too relaxed to generate ideas. According to a study by the University of Greenwich, the use of light bulbs that emit cool light with a blue tinge (‘Blue Enriched’) that are around 3,700K, results in improved productivity and performance. This happens because this cooler light helps promote mental alertness, plus it reduces the production of melatonin, which makes us sleepy. It’s almost like thinking about the physical temperature of a room. It shouldn’t be too warm so people fall asleep but also not so cold that they’re shivering and can’t focus.

So, when considering the lighting in rooms for brainstorming, or where people are likely to sharing ideas, definitely opt for lights that have cooler coloured bulbs or better still, have the option for you to adjust the lighting yourself.

Depending on the type and size of your office or room, you may be looking for a range of different light fittings to plan your office lighting. In our offices here at Lyco we use Cool white LED panels. They provide cool light which helps office workers see well, especially when working on screens for much of the day. The bright light ensures eyes aren’t strained and their energy level stays high.

We have so many different options of lighting that we think would support your office, no matter its size. For example, why not consider track lights in meetings rooms with adjustable heads for focused lighting. They are easy to install and include energy saving LED bulbs for lower running and maintenance costs.

Finding the right lighting for meeting rooms

Meetings rooms are one of the hardest spaces to plan for in an office environment as they have lots of different uses. On one hand, you want them work as a space that encourages productivity, interaction and engagement during meetings or presentations. However, the space also needs to feel warm and welcoming to external visitors and clients who may also be visiting with you in your offices. They could be used for one-to-one meetings, or conversations of a sensitive nature, so you want lighting that will complement the mood and tone the space is being used for. We would recommend lighting temperatures between 3100K and 4500K which are bright but welcoming. The conference room, for example should have lighting that falls somewhere in the middle of the spectrum. Bright enough to keep people’s attention sparked and the ideas following, but warm enough to create intimacy and comfort at other times. There are various other ways to ensure meeting room lighting is flexible, for example by using dimmers, and adding wall lights which will add subtle background ambience.

Smart lighting is becoming increasingly popular in meetings rooms and throughout offices, as it offers the flexibility to alter lighting easily. One minute a board meeting could be happening in there and the next, there could be a confidential conversation. Smart lighting offers the opportunity to adapt the lighting at the flick of a switch. Better still, employees can easily control and match the lighting to their own preferences as well as the tone of the meeting. This type of set up has huge potential to enhance employee satisfaction, as staff feel more empowered and in control of their working environment, which some studies have shown, can help companies retain their staff.

We stock a range of white changing LED bulbs that can be fitted to track light kits, and then controlled via phones or on a centralised dock. Track lighting is a great way to highlight seating areas around a desk, and as the individual heads can be angled, they can provide directional lighting for users.

Warm lighting in break out areas

We’ve talked lots about productivity so far, which we can all agree is important in an office setting. But what about when staff need to take well-earned breaks throughout the day, in order to have some down-time and unwind? They not only need space to break out but the lighting has to be fit for purpose in these spaces, too. The key to achieving a sense of balance is to separate the lighting in areas designed for people to work and for them to relax. Not only will this create distinct spaces for the two activities but it will amplify the results of bright white light in office areas and brainstorming rooms.

So, what should the lighting be like in a break out area? Using ambient and warm lighting is key to creating spaces where staff can have some quiet time and switch off amongst the chaos of the working day. As well as comfortable furniture and soft furnishings, consider using floor lamps, wall lights and bulbs with colour temperatures between 2000K and 3000K. This will help to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere. We recommend selecting light fittings in neutral colours rather than anything too brightly coloured or eye-catching. This is so that they aren’t too distracting while people are reading, chatting or eating lunch.

The Newham light by Edit is a great option to achieve this as it will blend into neutral backgrounds well, but can also be painted a specific colour if needed. Wall lights are an ideal way to add warmth as they provide ambient lighting to rooms. They could work just as well in less formal meeting rooms as well as in break and staff rooms or reception areas.

LED Lighting

We are currently experiencing the real effects of climate change. So whatever you decide to do with your lighting, it’s vital now more than ever to invest in LED. Switch to LED and you will be helping to save the planet and making cost savings for your business right away. LED will improve energy efficiency up to 80% over older fluorescent lighting, which is undeniably positive for any business. And because they use a fraction of the energy, over time energy bills will reduce. LED bulbs far outlast fluorescent or halogen bulbs, with many of them having a considerable life span up to 50,000 hours. This means they will need to replaced far less frequently than their older equivalents. Eventually, it will lead to lower maintenance costs, too. These differences alone can repay the investment very quickly.

It is easy to see why converting your office lighting to LED makes business sense. But did you know LEDs can also improve the health and well-being of workers where they are used? They are the perfect option for lighting an office as they provide a brighter, clearer light compared to fluorescent tubes. These have a tendency to be harsh and overly bright. Studies have shown that LED lighting is much better for us in the long term.

• It can improve our mood
• Boost our energy levels
• Help us avoid eye strain
• Reduce levels of tiredness

An investment in LED lighting is a means to develop a healthy working environment in which people can thrive and succeed.

Searching for advice? Contact us today

At Lyco we stock thousands of LED office lighting options that are suitable for offices of all types and sizes. Whether your offices are modern, purpose-built premises or a converted barn, we have lighting solutions to cover all bases. Our experienced team are on hand to answer any queries or questions you might have about installations, refits, or upgrading lighting systems in offices and new premises. Simply call or email the team for free advice, support and specific recommendations based on your requirements.

Call us: 0345 646 1133
Email us: sales@lyco.co.uk

Alternatively, you can browse our key commercial lighting categories below:

Reena Reeves

Reena Reeves is writer and editor with 15 years’ experiencing working in publishing and digital media. She has a degree in Journalism and has worked for publications such as Smash Hits magazine, OK! Magazine and The Daily Express. Reena has been writing about lighting since early 2017 and has supported us with website copy, product descriptions and articles on lighting trends and commercial lighting solutions.

Whenever you’re looking to illuminate an outdoor space, IP44 lighting will usually provide an answer. The “IP44 rating” is something of a benchmark. The first of its two digits means the electrical enclosure is inaccessible to solid objects above 1mm in width. This is useful if you have children playing in a garden, as it effectively prevents anything from being prised into perilous areas. The second of the 4’s tells us the fitting is impervious to splashed water from any angle.

The IP44 rating is common in outdoor lighting. If you need to jet-clean the light fitting or immerse it in water you’ll need a greater level of protection, but for most purposes the IP44 specification will suffice. A lower IP43 rating is sometimes seen in outdoor lights, which is also rainproof but a little less protected against wild downpours and bouncing or deflected water.

Our Ten Best IP44 Outdoor Lights

Having established the IP44 rating as a reliable measure of weatherproofing, we’ll look at Lyco’s top IP44 lights in each of ten outdoor categories:

Outdoor Wall Light

Outdoor wall lights can be decorative or functional. The IP44 rated Searchlight Coach Wall Lantern with built-in PIR Sensor ticks both boxes. This traditional fitting automatically triggers light when movement is detected within a 6m, 110° range. The PIR sensor can be overridden if required for manual operation.

View all Outdoor Wall Lights

Porch Lights

Porch lights are a popular way of brightening an entrance. The Searchlight Brunel has a classic style that’s ideal for various types of property. Its ridged opal glass diffuser is shielded by a steel cage and does a good job of cutting out glare. The slightly industrial look of this fitting is a popular modern choice.

View all Porch Lights

Plug and Play Lights

Plug and play lights offer a great way of designing an outdoor lighting scheme, without the need for any electrician to install it. The Alder Single Spotlight Extension consumes very little energy, thanks to its use of LED technology. This light can be easily added to the separately available 3-light kit, with no extra components required.

View all Plug and Play lights

Security Lights

Security lights are nothing if not functional, but the Lutec Shrimp LED Twin Floodlight excels itself for performance and practicality. Low priced without skimping on features, this 12W luminaire kicks out over 90 lumens of daylight light per watt and includes a PIR movement sensor with override facility.

View all Security lights

Decking Lights

Decking lights add ambience to a decking area as well as an element of safety. The Robus Garland – Set of 10 are ideal for outlining decking edges and can easily withstand human weight. As a solid state technology that’s resistant to vibration and shock, LED lighting is perfect in this challenging role.

View all Decking lights

Solar Lights

Solar lights now exist in many forms, all made possible by modern LED technology. The Suri Rabat Solar Flush Light is great for any outdoor seating area. These lights are a perfect choice for wedding receptions.

View all Solar lights

Post and Bollards

Posts and bollards are useful for bordering paths and driveways, simultaneously lighting the way and showing off plants and shrubs. The Lucide Fedor Short Bollart Light is perfect for highlighting garden features such as rockeries. Consuming very little energy, this stylish IP44 rated luminaire adds ambience to any modern outdoor space.

View all Post and Bollard lights

Tile and Brick Lights

Tile and brick lights are difficult to beat as discreet forms of exterior lighting. The Edit Step slots directly into a brick cavity. This is an easy way of lighting paths alongside commercial or residential buildings, where there may not be room for freestanding or surface-mounted luminaires. A louvred version of the same fitting is available, which delivers an indirect light and cuts out glare.

View all Tile and Brick lights

Stake Lights

Stake lights offer a flexible solution to showing off garden features. The Eglo Solar LED Spotlight is particularly versatile, with an integral solar panel that allows great positioning freedom. A built-in dusk-to-dawn sensor automatically triggers overnight light, which can be overridden by manual control if required. Use this IP44 rated spotlight to accent grasses, plants, shrubs, statues, and other items of interest.

View all Spotlights lights

IP44 Lighting: British weather defence

For lighting that will always resist the British elements, you only need think of IP44. A detailed explanation of Ingress Protection ratings is available here: IP Ratings – The Definitive Guide.

For more advice and inspiration take a look at our Lighting Advice section.

Andrew Evangelidis Head of Buying

Andrew is an experienced buying professional who takes an entrepreneurial approach to identify new lighting solutions and ensure Lyco have first-to-market ranges for our customers. Having previously worked for well known brands such as Wickes, Carphone Warehouse and Toys R Us, Andrew has now turned his hand to sourcing commercial lighting and ensure our customers receive top brand quality products at marketing leading prices. He manages a team of commercial and decorative buyers who travel the world finding new products that our customers don’t even know they need yet.

There are many different reasons for installing lighting in and around a garage or workshop. Whether it’s to improve security, help light up entrances, or allow the garage itself to be used regularly as a workshop or hobby space, there’s a solution for any lighting challenge.

Exterior lighting & security

Ensuring that you have appropriate lighting around the exterior of your garage is extremely important to help secure what is stored inside, as well as deter potential intruders from exploring other parts of your property. If you require a high level of security, for example to keep a car or expensive equipment safe, then high powered floodlights with integrated PIR motion sensors offer discouragement to would-be thieves. Additionally, if you are looking for an extra level of protection, floodlights with a built-in cameras are at the cutting edge of security; the Lutec Draco floodlight acts as both deterrent and detective, as it not includes a PIR motion sensor and a security camera, but also a speaker and microphone, allowing communication with whoever’s in shot via an app on your smartphone or tablet.

Dusk to dawn lights are another good option for improving security around a garage, and they look great too. These lights have built-in photocell sensors that will turn the lights on when darkness is detected, and off again at sunrise. As well as the added security benefits, dusk to dawn lights are very energy efficient, as the lights remain off during daylight hours ensuring that no energy is wasted unnecessarily.

Lighting the inside of a garage or workshop

Due to the fact that garages typically receive very little natural light, it is important to utilise bright downlighting throughout the space. LED battens are a great option here, as unlike traditional fluorescent tubes, they require no warm-up time, produce less heat (a welcome benefit when ventilation is limited), and can withstand more extreme conditions and temperatures.

Garages and workshops can often be exposed to high levels of moisture and dust, so when choosing lights it is important to take note of the IP rating. The Eterna Eco 64w LED Weatherproof Batten is a great choice. It has a high IP rating, whilst providing a bright, even spread of light. This fitting is also available in a wide range of sizes, making it suitable for most garages or workshops.

For anyone who spends a lot of time in their garage or workshop, having the right lighting for the task(s) at hand is critical – not just for being able to see properly, but also safely – particularly when power tools are involved. For carrying out detailed tasks, consider using desk lamps and spotlights to further illuminate specific work areas.

The way in which you use your garage will clearly affect the type of lighting you require – if you are using it simply for storage, then some simple battens should be fine. However, if it is somewhere you work and where you spend a lot of time, it is vital you take the time to perfectly plan your lighting layout.

If you’re still unsure on the best lighting solutions for your garage or workshop then please feel free to contact us today.

Charles Barnett Managing Director

Charles started Lyco in 1995 with just 4 enthusiastic employees and has grown it considerably over the past 25 years. Charles is also the Managing Director of Lighting Direct and newly acquired Online Lighting. He now has a team of 50 lighting experts working on growing Lyco Group to be the UK leader in lighting for both businesses and homes. Away from the office he is a keen cyclist and is proud to have cycled 1017 miles from Lands End to John O’Groats to raise money for a new residential centre for adults with multiple learning difficulties.