How much does it cost to install security lighting?
Security lighting is an essential aspect of home and property security.
It not only deters potential intruders but also provides comfort and safety for residents and visitors by illuminating dark areas around a property.
When considering installing security lighting, one of the first questions homeowners ask is, “How much will it cost?”
The answer isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on various factors, which we will explore in this article.
And while there are a gazillion options, remember that not all make good choices for your property. With many things to factor in, knowing the exact cost of installing security lighting is impossible if you’re clueless about what to look for.
As such, let’s fill in the details and break down how much it costs to install security lighting based on the factors influencing the overall price.
1 – Type of Security Lighting
Halogen Flood Lights
Halogen flood lights are the classic choice for security lighting. They emit bright, white light that covers a large area, so it becomes doubly difficult, even impossible, for intruders to approach unnoticed.
However, they’re very inefficient and produce heat, which could increase your electricity bills and may present a safety hazard.
LED Flood Lights
LED flood lights are a more sensible alternative to halogen lights.
They also emit bright, white light but consume much less energy and have longer lifespans. Their main disadvantage is the higher upfront cost, but they can pay off in the long run through energy savings.
Motion Sensor Lights
Motion sensor lights will turn on when there’s movement, which makes them a highly effective deterrent for intruders. They are energy efficient as they only turn on when necessary, but they may not provide constant lighting if that’s what you require.
You see, each type of security lighting comes with a distinctive purpose (and design), so your job is to pick one that addresses your needs adequately.
2 – Size and Coverage of Your Property
The size of your property is one factor that determines the installation cost. This considers the area you hope to cover and the number of lights you’ll need. A larger area with more lights means higher costs, whereas a smaller space with fewer lights will likely cost less.
Certain areas of the house present unique challenges regarding security light installation, resulting in potentially higher costs.
1: Rooflines and Second Stories – Getting lights up high on the corners of rooflines or second stories requires extra work, specialized ladders or scaffolding, and extra safety measures. This will increase the installation cost due to the time and risk involved.
2: Dense Landscape Areas – Areas with dense landscaping, i.e., trees and shrubs, can complicate installation. The installation crew may need to trim or remove parts of the landscaping to ensure the lights have clear coverage and are accessible for future maintenance.
3: Hard-To-Reach Areas – Some areas of the house, i.e., garages, sheds, or other outbuildings, are difficult to reach due to their location or the terrain around them. They may require additional staffing or special equipment to complete the installation.
4: Areas with No Existing Wiring – Areas without outdoor wiring, i.e., newly built patio or pool area, will be more time-consuming and costly to fit with security lights. Electricians must run new wiring from the electrical panel to these areas, often involving drilling holes, running conduits, and patching walls.
5: Historic or Custom Homes – Historic or custom homes present unique challenges due to their distinct architecture, older electrical systems, or special preservation requirements. Hence, the installation process will never be straightforward – it may require additional time, expertise, and materials, which can increase the installation cost.
3 – Electrician’s Charges For Security Lighting
Aside from the upfront cost of buying the lighting system, the electrician’s service charges will also factor into the cost. Electricians are likely to charge by the hour, and fees range widely depending on your location and the installation challenges. We also provide a flat rate for a home electrical consultation. If you want an exact estimate, fill out the online inquirey form and get a free virtual estimate.
4 – Maintenance Costs of Security Lighting
While it’s easy to focus purely on the initial installation costs, you must also consider the ongoing maintenance costs. This includes the cost of replacing bulbs, repairing or replacing damaged units, and routine inspections to ensure the lights are working correctly.
Depending on the type of light you choose, these costs will add up over time. For instance, halogen lights have shorter lifespans and may require more frequent bulb replacements, while LED lights have longer lifespans but are generally more expensive to repair or replace.
Add Security Lighting and Here’s Why
At the day’s end, it’s all about added security for your home and peace of mind for you. The perks of installing security lighting far outweigh the costs, especially since they provide a layer of protection against intruders and accidents on your property. Since most of these lighting systems come with modern designs and features, they’ll also improve your home’s aesthetic value.
Last Thoughts On Security Lighting
Installing security lighting is a wise investment for the safety and security of your property. While costs can vary widely, understanding the factors that affect installation costs can help you budget appropriately.
Always consider the long-term benefits of your chosen lighting, such as energy savings and durability, against the initial investment. Remember, the peace of mind that comes with a well-lit home is priceless.
If you have any questions about security lighting or outdoor lighting in general, please contact Gladiator Electric.
Mike has been in the industry since 2000 and is the owner of Gladiator Electric. After working for local Bergen County established electrical contractors and completing a 5 year state-sanctioned apprenticeship program, Mike become a foreman for a large company where he remained for over a decade. As an accomplished Martial artist in Brazilian jiu jitsu , Muay Thai & boxing Mike has learned focus, tolerance, fairness, humbleness, discipline and personal growth.
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