How High Should Outdoor Wall Lights Be?
Outdoor Wall Lights not only provide safety and security but also add a decorative element to your home exterior. One of the most common questions buyers ask is: How high should outdoor wall lights be mounted? Choosing the correct height ensures proper illumination, a balanced appearance, and a welcoming ambiance.
Standard Mounting Height for Outdoor Wall Lights
Most experts recommend installing outdoor wall lights between 66 and 72 inches (167–183 cm) above the ground. This general guideline works well for most residential properties and ensures the light source is at an eye-level height. Mounting at this range avoids glare while providing sufficient lighting coverage.
Factors That Influence Mounting Height
1. Doorway Placement
When placing wall lights beside an entry door, the bottom of the fixture should sit slightly above eye level, typically about 5.5 to 6 feet from the ground. This height prevents shadows on faces while greeting guests and highlights the doorway effectively.
2. Fixture Size
The size of your outdoor light affects how high it should be installed.
Small fixtures (under 18 inches tall): Mount closer to 66 inches for better visibility.
Large fixtures (over 18 inches tall): Mount slightly higher, near 72 inches, to balance proportions.
3. Architectural Style
Homes with tall doors, high porches, or multi-story entryways may require lights to be mounted a few inches higher to maintain symmetry with the overall design.
4. Purpose of Lighting
Security lighting: Can be mounted higher, often above 80 inches, to cover wider areas.
Decorative accent lighting: Works best when placed at eye level for aesthetics.
Tips for Symmetry and Aesthetics
Single Fixture: Place the fixture about one-third the height of the door for a balanced look.
Dual Fixtures: Install one on each side of the door, both aligned at equal height, to create symmetry.
Garage or Patio Lighting: Mount fixtures at the same height as entryway lights to maintain visual harmony across the exterior.
Mistakes to Avoid
Mounting too low: Creates harsh glare and reduces coverage area.
Mounting too high: Leaves the entryway in shadow and looks disproportionate.
Ignoring fixture size: A small light mounted too high will look undersized, while a large one mounted too low can overwhelm the space.
Final Recommendation
For most homeowners, mounting outdoor wall lights at 66–72 inches from the ground is ideal. Adjust slightly depending on fixture size, doorway height, and intended purpose. Always test placement before final installation to ensure the best combination of function and design.