side of garage lights

Garage Side Lighting Solutions

By Hannah Garcia
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Garage lights are not just a practical necessity but also a crucial aspect of home safety and curb appeal. While the garage door and interior often steal the spotlight, the humble garage light deserves its moment in the limelight. Today, we're shining a light on the often overlooked but vital topic of garage side lights.

Garage side lights, often referred to as garage wall lights or garage sconces, serve multiple purposes. They illuminate the exterior of your garage, enhancing visibility and security. They also add a touch of style to your home's exterior, complementing your garage door and overall architectural design.

Understanding Garage Side Lights

Garage side lights are typically installed on the walls adjacent to your garage door. They can be hardwired into your home's electrical system or powered by solar energy, depending on your preference and local regulations.

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Edvivi 1 -Light 14.25-in H Black Hardwired Outdoor Wall Light one_size | EW615S-BK
Edvivi 1 -Light 14.25-in H Black Hardwired Outdoor Wall Light one_size | EW615S-BK
Brivana Outdoor Sconce - Modern Metal Wall Light Champagne-8.5 / 21.6 cm-Individual
Brivana Outdoor Sconce - Modern Metal Wall Light Champagne-8.5 / 21.6 cm-Individual
Rune 12 in. 1-Light Black Farmhouse Outdoor Barn Light Wall Sconce with Metal Shade
Rune 12 in. 1-Light Black Farmhouse Outdoor Barn Light Wall Sconce with Metal Shade

These lights come in various styles, from sleek and modern to classic and traditional. They can be made of materials like aluminum, brass, or stainless steel, each offering a unique aesthetic and level of durability.

Types of Garage Side Lights

One of the most common types is the motion-activated light. These lights turn on automatically when they detect movement, providing hands-free illumination when entering or exiting your garage.

Kichler Lighting Northland 1 - Light Wall Light in Black
Kichler Lighting Northland 1 - Light Wall Light in Black
Yimwnyi Outdoor Solar Lights - Motion Sensor, Ip65 Waterproof, Auto On/Off, Dual Head Design for Courtyard, Driveway, Garage, Patio, Yard Decorative & Security Lighting, Size:Free Size, Multicolor
Yimwnyi Outdoor Solar Lights - Motion Sensor, Ip65 Waterproof, Auto On/Off, Dual Head Design for Courtyard, Driveway, Garage, Patio, Yard Decorative & Security Lighting, Size:Free Size, Multicolor
Shelton 1 Light Medium Wall Lamp
Shelton 1 Light Medium Wall Lamp

Another popular choice is the dusk-to-dawn light. These lights use a photocell to detect when it's dark and turn on automatically, ensuring your garage is always well-lit at night.

Benefits of Installing Garage Side Lights

Installing garage side lights offers numerous benefits. Firstly, they enhance safety by illuminating your garage door and the surrounding area, making it easier to see and navigate. This is particularly important for late-night returns home or early morning departures.

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Secondly, garage side lights can deter potential intruders. A well-lit exterior makes it harder for criminals to lurk unnoticed, acting as a visual deterrent. Additionally, they can enhance your home's curb appeal, adding a touch of style and sophistication to your garage.

Sleek Workshop Outdoor Sconce
Sleek Workshop Outdoor Sconce
2 Pack 23\
2 Pack 23\
1-Light 19.68 inch Oversize Classic Farmhouse Black Dusk To Dawn Auto Outdoor Wall Light
1-Light 19.68 inch Oversize Classic Farmhouse Black Dusk To Dawn Auto Outdoor Wall Light
Wilcox Vented Gooseneck Light | Barn Light Electric
Wilcox Vented Gooseneck Light | Barn Light Electric
2 Pack 22" Outdoor Porch Wall Light Exterior Dusk To Dawn Sconce Glass Fixture
2 Pack 22" Outdoor Porch Wall Light Exterior Dusk To Dawn Sconce Glass Fixture
Armor Extra Wide Outdoor Wall Sconce
Armor Extra Wide Outdoor Wall Sconce

Installing Garage Side Lights

Installing garage side lights is a relatively straightforward DIY project, but it's essential to ensure you're working safely with electricity. Always turn off the power at your home's main electrical panel before beginning any electrical work.

Measure and mark the location of your lights, ensuring they're level and evenly spaced. Drill holes for the mounting screws, then attach the light fixtures. Finally, connect the wires according to the manufacturer's instructions and restore power to test your new lights.

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Safety Tips for Installing Garage Side Lights

Always use the correct size and type of bulb for your fixture. Overloading a light socket with a bulb that's too powerful can cause it to overheat and potentially start a fire.

Harac Outdoor Wall Sconce, Patina Brass/Bronze
Harac Outdoor Wall Sconce, Patina Brass/Bronze
Henry Outdoor Sconce (7.5\
Henry Outdoor Sconce (7.5\
DORESshop 18 in Matte Black Modern Outdoor Wall Sconce with Clear Glass Shade Dusk to Dawn Light Sensor for Exterior Garage or Entryway Bulbs Include
DORESshop 18 in Matte Black Modern Outdoor Wall Sconce with Clear Glass Shade Dusk to Dawn Light Sensor for Exterior Garage or Entryway Bulbs Include
Outdoor Barn Light 21" blackMetal
Outdoor Barn Light 21" blackMetal
Trevor Outdoor Wall Light, Large 25", Bronze
Trevor Outdoor Wall Light, Large 25", Bronze
LED Outdoor Wall Lamp 12/24W with Motion Sensor IP65 Waterproof Light Control Suitable for Bathroom Garage Fence Deck Courtyard 110-240V
LED Outdoor Wall Lamp 12/24W with Motion Sensor IP65 Waterproof Light Control Suitable for Bathroom Garage Fence Deck Courtyard 110-240V
Rottogoon Modern Black Outdoor Light Fixtures Dusk to Dawn 2 Pack with LED T10 Bulbs, 15
Rottogoon Modern Black Outdoor Light Fixtures Dusk to Dawn 2 Pack with LED T10 Bulbs, 15
24 Exterior Garage Lighting Ideas to Boost Safety & Style - Too Much Time
24 Exterior Garage Lighting Ideas to Boost Safety & Style - Too Much Time
LNC Pict 1 -Light 14-in H Matte Black Hardwired Outdoor Wall Light Lowes.com
LNC Pict 1 -Light 14-in H Matte Black Hardwired Outdoor Wall Light Lowes.com
16'' Black Steel Wall Light Set of 2 by Williston Forge - E26 Compatible
16'' Black Steel Wall Light Set of 2 by Williston Forge - E26 Compatible
2-Light Matte Black Integrated LED Outdoor Wall Light Sconce
2-Light Matte Black Integrated LED Outdoor Wall Light Sconce
two black outdoor lights mounted on the side of a wall
two black outdoor lights mounted on the side of a wall
Shaded Firefly Outdoor Sconce
Shaded Firefly Outdoor Sconce

If you're unsure about any aspect of the installation process, don't hesitate to consult a professional electrician. Safety should always be your top priority when working with electricity.

In the end, garage side lights are a simple yet effective way to enhance your home's safety, style, and functionality. Whether you're looking to illuminate your garage door, deter potential intruders, or simply add a touch of curb appeal, garage side lights are a smart and practical choice. So why wait? Light up your garage and enjoy the peace of mind and aesthetic benefits that come with it.

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