Landscape Lighting

Why Choose Low Voltage LED Lighting?

The biggest concern homeowners have regarding landscape lighting installation is the electricity bill. That is why we exclusively install low-voltage LED systems.

Unlike old-school high-voltage lights, our systems use a transformer to convert your home's standard power down to a safe, efficient 12-volt current.

• Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume up to 80% less electricity than halogen bulbs. You can light up your entire property for pennies a night.
  
  
• Safety: Low voltage minimizes the risk of shock, making it safe for families with children and pets.
  
  
• Longevity: Our fixtures are built to withstand wet winters without corroding or short-circuiting.

Smart Control: Lighting at Your Fingertips

Forget about manually flipping switches or resetting mechanical timers every time the seasons change. We bring your garden into the smart home era.

Our landscape lighting systems are compatible with the latest technology (Horizon apps).

• Smartphone Control: Turn your patio lights on/off, dim them, or change zones directly from your phone.
  
  
• Astronomical Timing: Our systems know exactly when the sun sets in Seattle on any given day. The lights turn on automatically at dusk and turn off at your preferred time, adjusting themselves as the days get longer or shorter.

Design & Techniques: More Than Just Visibility

We use light to paint your landscape at night. Our design process includes specific techniques to highlight your property's best features:

• Path Lighting: We install fixtures along walkways and driveways. This isn't just aesthetic; it's a critical safety measure to prevent tripping on dark, wet pavement.
  
  
• Uplighting: We place lights at the base of trees or architectural columns to create dramatic vertical focal points.
  
  
• Patio & Deck Lights: Whether using subtle neon strips or under-cap lights, we create a soft glow perfect for entertaining without blinding your guests.

The Installation Process: Protecting Your Wiring

A common question is: "Do you need to dig up my whole yard?" No. Our installation is non-intrusive.

1. Transformer Setup: We install the main transformer near a power source (usually the garage or side of the house).
   
   
2. Wiring: We use high-grade direct burial wire. We bury the cables just below the surface (approx. 6 inches).
   
   
3. No Conduit Needed: Because we use safe low-voltage landscape lighting, we generally do not need to run rigid pipes (conduit) everywhere, which saves you money. We only use conduit in high-risk areas where digging might occur later or where wires are exposed.
   
   
4. Connections: We use waterproof wire connectors to ensure moisture never penetrates the electrical joints—the #1 cause of system failure in WA.

In-Depth Expert Answers: Landscape Lighting FAQ

To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled the most comprehensive list of questions regarding cost, technical specs, and design.

Cost & Value

What is the average cost to install landscape lighting? Costs vary based on the number of fixtures and the size of the transformer needed. A basic landscape lighting installation for a pathway is very affordable, while a full estate system with uplighting and smart controls is a larger investment. Contact us for a per-fixture quote.

Does landscape lighting increase home value? Yes. "Curb appeal" doesn't stop when the sun goes down. A well-lit home looks premium, safe, and cared for. Real estate data suggests that professional outdoor landscape lighting can increase perceived property value by up to 20%.

Will these lights increase my electric bill significantly? No. Because we use LED landscape lighting, the cost is negligible. A typical system with 10-15 lights might cost less than $2-$3 per month to operate.

How much does labor cost to install landscape lighting? Labor is factored into our per-fixture pricing. This covers the trenching, wiring, burying, and fine-tuning the angles of the lights.

Technical & Wiring

Do you need an electrician to install landscape lighting? Generally, no. Since we work with low-voltage (12V) systems that plug into an exterior outlet via a transformer, a licensed landscape contractor can legally and safely install it. You typically only need an electrician if you need a new outdoor GFCI outlet installed where none exists.

How deep do you bury the wire? For low voltage, the code is lenient, but we typically bury wires 6 inches deep. This keeps them safe from aeration and edging tools while being accessible for repairs.

Do you use conduit (pipes) for the wires? In most garden beds, direct burial wire is sufficient and industry standard. We use conduit/pipe only in areas where the wire comes out of the ground (to the transformer) or goes under a hardscape to protect it from physical damage.

What is a transformer and why do I need one? The transformer is the "brain" that steps down your house's 120-volt power to a safe 12-volts. It also houses the timer or smart control receiver.

Why are my lights dim at the end of the line? This is called "voltage drop." It happens when the wire run is too long or the wire gauge is too thin. As experts, we calculate the load and use the correct landscape lighting wire gauge to ensure the last light is just as bright as the first.

Design & Brightness

How many lumens are good for landscape lighting? "Less is more." You don't want your yard to look like a stadium.

• Path lights: 100-300 lumens (soft glow).
• Spotlights/Uplights: 300-500 lumens (to reach high branches).
• Floodlights: 700+ lumens (for security or large walls).

What is the rule of thumb for landscape lighting? The rule is: Don't light everything. Leave some shadows for contrast. Focus on highlighting paths for safety, trees for drama, and architectural features for depth.

What is the best color temperature for outdoor lighting? We recommend Warm White (2700K - 3000K). This mimics the cozy look of incandescent bulbs. Avoid "Cool White" (4000K+) unless you want a stark, commercial security look, which can feel cold and uninviting in a garden.

What does it mean if someone has a pink porch light? Traditionally, a pink light is often used in October to support Breast Cancer Awareness. However, with modern RGB smart lights, homeowners change colors for holidays (orange for Halloween, red/green for Christmas).

Maintenance & Longevity

What is the longest lasting outdoor lighting? Brass and Copper fixtures are the longest lasting. Unlike aluminum which can corrode over time in Seattle's damp air, brass develops a natural patina and can last 20+ years. Integrated LED fixtures also last 30,000+ hours.

Can I use solar landscape lighting instead? You can, but we don't recommend it for Seattle. Solar landscape lighting relies on direct sun to charge. In our overcast winters, solar lights often fail to charge fully and die by 7 PM. Hardwired low-voltage systems are reliable 365 days a year.

Are the connectors waterproof? Yes. We use specialized silicone-filled wire nuts or heat-shrink connectors. This is crucial. Poor connections are the #1 reason DIY systems fail after one rainy season.

What are the downsides of permanent lights? The only downside is the initial installation effort. However, unlike string lights that you have to hang and take down, permanent landscape lighting systems add value to the home and require zero daily effort once installed.

How do I maintain my landscape lighting? Maintenance is minimal. We recommend trimming vegetation so it doesn't block the light fixtures and occasionally wiping the lenses to remove mud or hard water spots.

Local Experts Serving Kirkland, Seattle & Eastside

Our connection to the region goes beyond holding a business license; we were raised in Kirkland. This background provides us with an inherent understanding of the specific soil compositions and micro-climates that affect Seattle landscaping.

We don't need to guess how local terrain reacts to the seasons because we have lived it. When you hire LandscapingFactory, you are engaging specialists who combine technical expertise with local context, ensuring your project is compliant, durable, and suited to community standards.