Exterior lighting that actually deters — and lighting that just wastes money
July 29, 2026
Brighter is not safer. What matters is coverage, placement, and eliminating the shadows an intruder can work in.
Coverage beats brightness
A single very bright fixture creates deep shadows at its edges — the exact places someone can stand unseen. Several evenly spaced, lower-output fixtures almost always outperform one floodlight.
Light the places that matter
Prioritize entry doors, rear service areas, dumpster enclosures, parking stalls, and the path staff walk to their vehicles after close.
Aim fixtures downward. Light pointed outward blinds passing drivers and neighbours, which removes the natural surveillance that helps you.
Do a night walk
Nothing replaces standing on your own property after dark. Walk the perimeter at closing time and note every place you could not clearly see a person's face from ten metres. Those are your gaps.