Garage and Workshop Lighting Tips

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.