3 Types of Hardscape Lighting To Install During Hardscaping Projects

Do you design and install hardscapes, but haven’t incorporated hardscape lighting yet? Do you have clients asking for hardscape lighting to be added long after their project was completed? It can be challenging to get that kind of request after you’ve completed your hardscaping installations, and having to let the client know it might not be possible.

We’re here to help you make a plan on how to incorporate hardscape lighting into your quote process, so you can minimize lost sales and disappointment. in-lite offers 3 types of hardscape lighting fixtures that need to be installed at the time of hardscaping construction. Continue reading and get all the details on these incredible hardscape lights.

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Reasons To Quote Hardscaping Projects With Lighting

When it comes to hardscaping projects like retaining walls and patios, lighting is often an overlooked feature. But adding hardscape lighting to your projects will significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and safety of any outdoor living space. As a contractor, it's important to educate your clients on the benefits of including hardscape lighting at the time of installation, rather than after the fact. Here’s why:

1. Avoid Headaches: Retrofitting your projects to add lighting after the hardscaping work is done can be a major pain. The installation process for some hardscape lighting involves layering stone on top of lighting hardware, which can be difficult and disruptive to do after the hardscaping work has been completed. It's much easier and more cost-effective to add the lighting at the time of hardscape installation.

2. Enhance Functionality: Hardscape lighting can significantly enhance the beauty and functionality of an outdoor living space. A well-designed lighting plan can highlight the key features of the hardscaping project, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for outdoor gatherings and activities. It can also increase safety by providing adequate illumination for walkways and stairs, helping to prevent accidents and falls.

3. Stand Out: From a contractor's perspective, offering hardscape lighting as an additional service can help differentiate your business from competitors and increase your revenue. You can demonstrate your expertise and value as a contractor by showcasing the benefits of hardscape lighting during the initial consultation. Additionally, offering hardscape lighting can lead to repeat business and referrals, as satisfied clients will be more likely to recommend your services to others.

4. Customization: For clients, adding hardscape lighting is a smart investment that can increase the value and enjoyment of their outdoor living space. It's a simple way to create a custom look that fits their style and needs. By including hardscape lighting at the time of installation, clients can avoid the hassle and cost of retrofitting the lighting later on.

Hardscape Lights To Install During Construction

We recommend the following types of durable and versatile lights because they are designed to be installed directly into your hardscaping during construction, providing both beauty and functionality that will last for years to come.

Undercap Step Lighting

Installing undercap lighting during the construction phase of hardscaping is essential because the wiring can be integrated into the structure. The wiring for undercap lighting is placed before the capstones are installed, so the lights can be secured under the capstones. The capstones are then glued on top of the wire installations to put everything in place. If undercap lighting is not installed during the construction phase, the capstones would need to be removed to add the wiring, causing the hardscaping to be disrupted and potentially damaged. This would lead to additional time and expense, as well as the inconvenience of having to redo your work.

Check out the video below to see the installation of the in-lite EVO FLEX in an undercap step lighting application at the time of construction:

Undercap Pillar Lighting

When it comes to installing undercap pillar lighting on a wall, it is critical to plan and execute it during the construction phase. The wires for the lights need to be laid out carefully in the wall before the stone or brick is installed. Once the stone or brick is in place, the wires are covered and can no longer be accessed without tearing apart the wall. By installing the undercap pillar lighting during the construction phase, you can make sure that the wiring is properly integrated into the wall and that the lights will function properly long-term.

Here’s a video of in-lite’s EVO HYDE being installed on a stone pillar. Note how the detachable mounting bracket is added with adhesive during the installation. This feature allows you to remove the light in the future if there is ever an issue with it.

Recessed Lights In Stone and Concrete

The same principle applies when installing recessed lights in stone and concrete. The fixtures need to be in place before the installation of the hardscaping material is completed, because the fixtures need to be properly positioned and wired, and the material needs to be placed around them. By installing the fixtures during the construction phase, you can ensure that they are seamlessly integrated into the hardscape design and will provide optimal functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Take a look at the video below to see how to install in-lite’s PUCK 22 in a hardscape application: 

By installing hardscape lighting during the construction process, you’ll save time and money, and you’ll ensure that the final product is exactly what your client wants. Don't forget about the variety of lighting options available for walls, pillars, and steps, and the importance of selecting a low-voltage product for safety and efficiency. If you want more advice and resources for incorporating hardscape lighting into your projects, be sure to sign up to become an in-sider, or contact us at info@in-lite.com or +1-833-472-9960 to learn more and take your business to the next level.