With five kids, our outdoor lights run more hours per year than any fixture inside the house. The front porch light is on from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. in winter. The back patio lights run from 5 p.m. until the last kid comes in. They need to be reliable, durable, and attractive enough to suit a well-maintained Nashville home.
The Front Entrance
Two outdoor wall sconces flanking the front door — one on each side, replacing the single fixture that came with the house. The pair creates symmetry and doubles the light on the porch for evenings when we're welcoming people in. Both on a timer so they come on at sunset without anyone remembering to flip a switch.
The Back Patio
Two sconces mounted on the back of the house, flanking the back door. Motion sensor on both — they come on the moment anyone opens the back door after dark. String lights across the patio cover the ambiance need. Between the two, the back yard is both safe and genuinely pleasant for evening family time.
The Durability Requirements
I specifically chose fixtures rated for UL Wet Location — Nashville summers are humid and winters involve freeze-thaw cycles. Quality outdoor fixtures don't rust, don't fog, and don't require replacement every three years.
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