When it comes to illuminating concrete driveways, there are several types of light fixtures to choose from. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider a project’s specific needs and preferences when selecting the best outdoor LED lights.
BEST LIGHTS FOR DRIVEWAY
In-Ground Lights
In-ground lights, also known as in-grade lights, are a popular option for illuminating driveways. These lights are installed directly into the driveway, providing a sleek and modern look. In-ground lights come in a variety of styles and finishes to match a multitude of projects.
One of the main advantages of in-ground lights is their durability. The fixtures are flush with the ground, so they are less likely to be damaged by lawnmowers or other landscaping equipment. Not only that, they provide a high level of illumination, making them great for larger driveways.
In-ground L358 recessed LED lights with double aperture trim provide illumination without glare for a concrete driveway.
Path Lights
Path lights are another great choice for illuminating driveways. They come in a few different styles that suit different landscaping projects. Bollard path lights are light fixtures that typically stand a few feet tall and are placed along the edges of the driveway so the light outputs a soft, diffused glow.
Another option for illuminating driveways is wall-mounted lights. These lights are mounted on the side of a wall and shine down onto the driveway. Wall-mounted lights come in a variety of styles so that they fit all types of landscape lighting projects.
One of the main advantages of wall-mounted lights is their durability. They are mounted high above the ground, making them less likely to be damaged by landscaping. They work best in interior parking spaces and driveways as they have a wall to be installed in.
ADVANTAGES OF HAVING IN-GROUND LIGHTS IN A CONCRETE DRIVEWAY
Increased Safety
One of the most significant advantages of having in-ground lights in concrete driveways is the increased safety they provide. With in-ground lights, they can illuminate driveways and pathways at night, making it easier to see and navigate. In-ground lights can also help prevent accidents, such as tripping or falling, by illuminating any obstacles in the path. Once installed, their non-obtrusive trims also make in-ground lighting fixtures a safe option for pedestrians and drivers.
In-ground lights can also enhance the curb appeal of the project’s location. The fixtures come in a variety of styles and finishes, allowing them to be customized to match the landscape’s overall aesthetic. In-ground lights can also create a welcoming atmosphere and cozy ambiance outdoors.
In-ground lights are incredibly durable. They are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and are designed to be walked on or driven over without breaking. Also, because they are flush with the ground, they are less likely to be damaged by external factors such as landscaping equipment, tampering, and extreme weather conditions. A feature to watch out for is the drive-over rating – the more weight it can sustain, the more durable the fixture is.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING IN-GROUND LIGHTS IN A CONCRETE DRIVEWAY
Non-Obtrusive Design
When selecting recessed LED in-ground lights for a concrete driveway, choosing light fixtures that are non-obtrusive is a great choice for those who want the fixture to look seamless with its surroundings. By having the lights flush with the floor, they can highlight and emphasize landscape features and illuminate a path while blending in where it’s installed.
In-grade L308 recessed LED light with square trim and double aperture provides illumination without glare for a concrete pathway.
Drive-Over Rating
Another important consideration when selecting recessed in-ground lights for concrete driveways is the drive-over rating. In-ground lights should be able to withstand the weight of vehicles driving over them without breaking or becoming damaged. Look for lights with a high drive-over rating to ensure they can withstand the weight of cars and any other vehicles that may drive over them.
Outdoor-Rated Materials
In-ground lights installed in concrete driveways are often exposed to the elements, so it’s crucial to choose lights made with outdoor-rated materials. Outdoor-rated materials are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. High-quality materials go a long way when it comes to the durability of a light fixture.
Finally, when selecting in-ground lights for a concrete driveway, it’s important to consider any safety features that a project may need. LED light fixtures with bolts can provide extra security when it comes to tampering. Or, for example, lights with a low voltage output that reduces the risk of electrical shock.
HOW TO INSTALL IN-GROUND LIGHTS IN A CONCRETE DRIVEWAY
Step 1: Pre-Concrete Pour
Before starting the installation process, plan and prepare. First, decide on the number of fixtures that need to be installed and where they will be placed. Make sure to measure the distance between each light to ensure they are evenly spaced. Then, mark the location of each light fixture with spray paint or chalk. Position the electrical boxes – the recommended distance is 1/4” (6mm) maximum between the top of the poured concrete and the top of the flange. Optional mounting kits are available to help level and stabilize boxes for a smoother installation. Once boxes have been positioned, insert plastic caps into flanges to prevent cement from entering the electrical box.
Step 2: Post-Concrete Pour
After the concrete has cured, crack it above each flange and remove the plastic cap using a corkscrew or similar tool. The power to the remote driver must be off while wiring LED fixtures to drivers. Connect fixture leads to box wiring using the supplied waterproof wire nuts. Apply lubrication grease to the bottom of the trim on O-rings and inside of the flange for proper insertion and removal of trim. The inside of the flange must be clean before applying silicone grease to avoid any problems during the installation. With a twisting back and forth motion, insert trim into the flange. If the fixture has an angle bracket, make sure the beam is lined up in the desired direction when inserting the trim. Finally, turn the power on and enjoy the new luminaires.
Rendering showing in-grade L05 recessed LED light with back box after the installation process and concrete pour
Rendering showing in-grade L01 recessed LED light with back box and MK3 mounting kit after the installation process and concrete pour
Rendering showing in-ground L01 recessed LED light with back box after the installation process and concrete pour
How to Install In-ground Lights in Concrete Driveway – Steps to Consider
When it comes to illuminating concrete driveways, there are several types of light fixtures to choose from. Each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider a project’s specific needs and preferences when selecting the best outdoor LED lights.
BEST LIGHTS FOR DRIVEWAY
In-Ground Lights
In-ground lights, also known as in-grade lights, are a popular option for illuminating driveways. These lights are installed directly into the driveway, providing a sleek and modern look. In-ground lights come in a variety of styles and finishes to match a multitude of projects.
One of the main advantages of in-ground lights is their durability. The fixtures are flush with the ground, so they are less likely to be damaged by lawnmowers or other landscaping equipment. Not only that, they provide a high level of illumination, making them great for larger driveways.
In-ground L358 recessed LED lights with double aperture trim provide illumination without glare for a concrete driveway.
Path Lights
Path lights are another great choice for illuminating driveways. They come in a few different styles that suit different landscaping projects. Bollard path lights are light fixtures that typically stand a few feet tall and are placed along the edges of the driveway so the light outputs a soft, diffused glow.
Bollard L92 LED path lights illuminating a concrete driveway.
Wall-Mounted Lights
Another option for illuminating driveways is wall-mounted lights. These lights are mounted on the side of a wall and shine down onto the driveway. Wall-mounted lights come in a variety of styles so that they fit all types of landscape lighting projects.
One of the main advantages of wall-mounted lights is their durability. They are mounted high above the ground, making them less likely to be damaged by landscaping. They work best in interior parking spaces and driveways as they have a wall to be installed in.
Wall-mounted L46 LED lights illuminating a concrete pathway.
ADVANTAGES OF HAVING IN-GROUND LIGHTS IN A CONCRETE DRIVEWAY
Increased Safety
One of the most significant advantages of having in-ground lights in concrete driveways is the increased safety they provide. With in-ground lights, they can illuminate driveways and pathways at night, making it easier to see and navigate. In-ground lights can also help prevent accidents, such as tripping or falling, by illuminating any obstacles in the path. Once installed, their non-obtrusive trims also make in-ground lighting fixtures a safe option for pedestrians and drivers.
In-grade L08 recessed LED lights with double aperture trim provides illumination without glare for a concrete pathway.
Enhanced Curb Appeal
In-ground lights can also enhance the curb appeal of the project’s location. The fixtures come in a variety of styles and finishes, allowing them to be customized to match the landscape’s overall aesthetic. In-ground lights can also create a welcoming atmosphere and cozy ambiance outdoors.
In-grade L312 recessed LED lights illuminating a concrete driveway with sitting wall and steps.
Longevity and Durability
In-ground lights are incredibly durable. They are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and are designed to be walked on or driven over without breaking. Also, because they are flush with the ground, they are less likely to be damaged by external factors such as landscaping equipment, tampering, and extreme weather conditions. A feature to watch out for is the drive-over rating – the more weight it can sustain, the more durable the fixture is.
In-ground L05 recessed LED light with high beams and large light output illuminating a concrete driving of a parking lot.
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN SELECTING IN-GROUND LIGHTS IN A CONCRETE DRIVEWAY
Non-Obtrusive Design
When selecting recessed LED in-ground lights for a concrete driveway, choosing light fixtures that are non-obtrusive is a great choice for those who want the fixture to look seamless with its surroundings. By having the lights flush with the floor, they can highlight and emphasize landscape features and illuminate a path while blending in where it’s installed.
In-grade L308 recessed LED light with square trim and double aperture provides illumination without glare for a concrete pathway.
Drive-Over Rating
Another important consideration when selecting recessed in-ground lights for concrete driveways is the drive-over rating. In-ground lights should be able to withstand the weight of vehicles driving over them without breaking or becoming damaged. Look for lights with a high drive-over rating to ensure they can withstand the weight of cars and any other vehicles that may drive over them.
Outdoor-Rated Materials
In-ground lights installed in concrete driveways are often exposed to the elements, so it’s crucial to choose lights made with outdoor-rated materials. Outdoor-rated materials are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. High-quality materials go a long way when it comes to the durability of a light fixture.
In-ground L358 recessed LED light with double aperture trim provides illumination without glare to a concrete pathway and driveway
Safety Features
Finally, when selecting in-ground lights for a concrete driveway, it’s important to consider any safety features that a project may need. LED light fixtures with bolts can provide extra security when it comes to tampering. Or, for example, lights with a low voltage output that reduces the risk of electrical shock.
HOW TO INSTALL IN-GROUND LIGHTS IN A CONCRETE DRIVEWAY
Step 1: Pre-Concrete Pour
Before starting the installation process, plan and prepare. First, decide on the number of fixtures that need to be installed and where they will be placed. Make sure to measure the distance between each light to ensure they are evenly spaced. Then, mark the location of each light fixture with spray paint or chalk. Position the electrical boxes – the recommended distance is 1/4” (6mm) maximum between the top of the poured concrete and the top of the flange. Optional mounting kits are available to help level and stabilize boxes for a smoother installation. Once boxes have been positioned, insert plastic caps into flanges to prevent cement from entering the electrical box.
Step 2: Post-Concrete Pour
After the concrete has cured, crack it above each flange and remove the plastic cap using a corkscrew or similar tool. The power to the remote driver must be off while wiring LED fixtures to drivers. Connect fixture leads to box wiring using the supplied waterproof wire nuts. Apply lubrication grease to the bottom of the trim on O-rings and inside of the flange for proper insertion and removal of trim. The inside of the flange must be clean before applying silicone grease to avoid any problems during the installation. With a twisting back and forth motion, insert trim into the flange. If the fixture has an angle bracket, make sure the beam is lined up in the desired direction when inserting the trim. Finally, turn the power on and enjoy the new luminaires.
Rendering showing in-grade L05 recessed LED light with back box after the installation process and concrete pour
Rendering showing in-grade L01 recessed LED light with back box and MK3 mounting kit after the installation process and concrete pour
Rendering showing in-ground L01 recessed LED light with back box after the installation process and concrete pour