lightingLayouts.com - Asking the Right Questions

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Asking the Right Questions

To create a successful layout, understand the site and be able to picture it in your head.

Know the Site

Get dimensions for your site so you can see what areas need to be lit. Refer to local building codes and inspectors to find out what state and municipal lighting ordinances may apply.

Know the Light Levels

Refer to the recommended light levels supplied by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES). You can use the lighting level for your project type as a starting point.

Fixture Type and Mounting

Think about the fixture types and mounting styles that work best.
Do you need a pole, wall or trunnion mounted flood fixture or will a wallpack work best?
What mounting brackets or accessory shields will you need?

Surrounding Area

It is important to know the area surrounding your site, especially if there are neighbors.

Is there a high or low level of ambient light?
Depending on the project, you may need to compensate for ambient light. For example, urban areas may provide light (such as parking lots) which contributes to your job. This would lower the amount of light you need to use. However, surrounding signs or flagpoles may greaten the level of light you use to ensure your job is well lit above the ambient light.

Is it a commercial or residential area?
Commercial Areas generally have higher ambient light levels than residential ones, but may have strict light ordinances. Be sure to check your local building codes. Residential areas often have neighboring residences in close proximity to one another. You may need to use fixtures that minimize light trespass.

Are there roadways adjacent to the property?
Avoid aiming floodlights into oncoming traffic and be sure to use cutoff, full cutoff or fixtures with accessory shields, hoods and visors to limit light trespass.