Can Wall Sconce Light Fixtures be used Outdoors?

The aesthetic look of my apartment had gone to the next level with the Wall Sconce light fixtures. Wall sconce light fixtures are popular lighting solutions for indoor spaces, but can they be used outdoors?

The answer is yes. Outdoor wall sconces are a great way to add ambiance and function to your outdoor living spaces. Choosing the right Wall Sconce light fixture to lighten the outside look of your home.

Does that mean there are any bad wall sconce light fixtures? No.

But, there are some checkpoints to picking the perfect Wall Sconce light fixtures for outdoor use. You cannot use the regular indoor fixtures outside. Let’s break down the details to know the exact solution.

Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Wall Sconces

Wall sconces have proven to be a superb option when it comes to illuminating one’s home or business. These fixtures provide both functional light and aesthetic appeal to a room. 

However, one must not overlook the fact that there exists a profound distinction between indoor and outdoor wall sconces. Being cognizant of these differences before procuring a fixture is paramount.

Indoor Wall Sconces

Indoor wall sconces are engineered to be utilized within the confines of your dwelling or commercial establishment. They are frequently employed to provide accent lighting or serve as a primary source of illumination within a space. 

These sconces showcase an extensive range of designs, varying from traditional to contemporary, enabling you to select one that complements your interior decor with ease.

The most notable dissimilarity between indoor and outdoor wall sconces is that indoor fixtures are not intended to endure exposure to harsh weather conditions. Can Wall Sconces be installed on any wall??

These sconces are not weather-resistant and hence cannot be deployed outside. Moreover, indoor wall sconces are usually outfitted with lower-wattage bulbs in comparison to their outdoor counterparts, given that they are not required to illuminate a vast outdoor expanse.

Outdoor Wall Sconces

Outdoor wall sconces, in contrast, are designed to be used in exterior areas of your home or business. They are typically situated around the periphery of a building, such as the front entrance or on a terrace. 

“Outdoor wall sconces are crafted to endure the elements, rendering them weather-resistant and capable of withstanding rain, wind, and other outdoor elements”.

In comparison to indoor sconces, outdoor wall fixtures typically use higher wattage bulbs to sufficiently illuminate a larger area. 

In addition, they possess a sturdier construction to withstand the impact of outdoor conditions, given that they are required to endure exposure to the elements.

Choosing the Best Outdoor Wall Sconce

When opting for an outdoor wall sconce, there are various aspects to contemplate. Primarily, it’s essential to ascertain the motive behind the installation of the sconce. Is it for securing the surrounding environment, or is it for elevating the visual allure of the property? 

If the aim is to safeguard the premises, it’s recommendable to select a brighter light source, complemented with a motion sensor. Conversely, if the purpose is to enhance the aesthetics, a fixture with a softer, more welcoming light may be the preferred option.

Secondly, the perfect outdoor wall sconce demands vigilant attention toward both the fixture’s style and durability. It is imperative to take cognizance of the multitude of outdoor wall sconce styles available, in order to cherry-pick one that ideally complements the overall style of your home and outdoor living spaces. 

Bearing in mind that if you have a modern home, a fixture with a sleek and uncluttered design may suit your taste, whereas if your home has a more traditional look, a fixture with more intricate and embellished details may catch your eye.

Aside from style, the durability of the fixture is another crucial component to cogitate. Given that outdoor wall sconces are exposed to inclement weather conditions, it is of utmost importance to opt for a fixture that is impervious to the outdoor environment. 

To that end, scour for fixtures that are fashioned from sturdy materials such as glass or metal with weather-resistant designs.

Therefore, let’s delve into the types of wall sconce light fixtures that are suitable for outdoor use.

Types of Wall Sconce Light Fixtures Suitable for Outdoor Use

When selecting wall sconces for outdoor use, it’s essential to choose fixtures that are rated for outdoor use, as they will be exposed to the elements. Here are some types of wall sconce light fixtures that are suitable for outdoor use:

1. Wet Rated Wall Sconces

Wet-rated wall sconces are intentionally crafted to be utilized in external zones that have direct exposure to water and severe weather elements. These light fixtures are constructed with materials that can endure rain, snow, and even saltwater spray near the coast. 

In situations where wall sconces will be installed in proximity to water areas such as the pool, hot tub, or any other outdoor region, wet-rated wall sconces are the most appropriate option. Wet-rated wall sconces are also ideal for places that receive direct sunlight since they are created to resist fading and cracking from UV exposure.

2 Damp-Rated Wall Sconces

Damp-rated wall sconces are designed for outdoor regions that only offer partial protection against brutal weather elements. These illuminating fixtures are suitable for installation in patios, balconies, or outdoor spaces that have an overhang or awning to shield the fixture from direct snow or rain exposure.

While damp-rated wall sconces are not as weather-resistant as their wet-rated counterparts, they are still a dependable option for outdoor use. 

The construction of damp-rated wall sconces incorporates materials that can endure moisture, but they may not be sufficiently robust to withstand heavy rainfall or snowfall.

3 Dark Sky Compliant Wall Sconces

Wall sconces that are dark sky compliant are intentionally crafted to minimize light pollution and mitigate the effects on wildlife that are active during the night. These light fixtures are the perfect addition to your outdoor areas if you prefer to bask in the natural beauty of the starry sky and nocturnal environment.

These wall sconces incorporate a hood or shade that directs the light downwards, preventing it from escaping upwards into the sky. 

This innovative design minimizes the amount of light that is emitted into the sky and helps to reduce any associated glare, creating a more relaxing and pleasant outdoor atmosphere for you and your visitors.

• Outdoor Lantern Sconces: These sconces are a classic outdoor lighting option and come in various styles and finishes, including traditional, transitional, and contemporary.

• Gooseneck Sconces: These sconces have a distinctive curved arm that extends from the wall, providing a unique and attractive lighting option for outdoor spaces.

• Barn Lights: These sconces are a popular choice for outdoor lighting and are modeled after the classic lights used on farms and barns.

• LED Wall Sconces: These energy-efficient sconces come in various styles and are perfect for illuminating outdoor spaces while reducing energy costs. In fact, I have written a detailed guide on Do Wall Sconces with Multiple Bulbs Produce More Light?

• Cylinder Sconces: These sconces feature a cylindrical shape and are available in a variety of sizes and finishes, making them an excellent choice for a variety of outdoor spaces.

• Spotlight Sconces: These sconces are designed to direct light precisely where it’s needed, making them ideal for highlighting outdoor features like statues, fountains, and landscaping.

Can You Use “Indoor Lighting Fixtures Outdoors”?

It is not safe to use indoor lighting fixtures outdoors (Especially the exposed areas). Indoor lighting fixtures are made to use only indoors and they aren’t sealed against moisture and will stop working during the first heavy rain.

Generally, people use outdoor lighting fixtures indoors, so it’s a common thing to think of using indoor fixtures outside the home. The fixtures will be exposed to air, dust, rain, and corrosion which will damage the fixtures.

The UL-rated indoor fixtures that are product safety approval marks for dry, damp, or wet locations can be used outside.

Safety Concerns for Outdoor Wall Sconces

I believe that outdoor lighting can greatly enhance the beauty and security of any property. Outdoor wall sconces are a popular choice for adding a touch of elegance to the exterior of a home or business. However, it is important to be aware of safety concerns when selecting and installing outdoor wall sconces.

1 Electrical Safety

In the event of one’s intention to select an outdoor wall sconce, it is imperative to give careful consideration to the fixture’s design intended for outdoor usage, coupled with an appropriate rating that matches the required voltage. 

In addition, it is crucial to ensure that the wiring of the wall sconce is installed and grounded correctly to avert any risk of electrical hazards.

As a safety precaution, it is highly recommended to solicit the assistance of a licensed electrician to guarantee a safe and precise installation of the outdoor wall sconces. Here is the guide about How to Install a Wall Sconce Electric Box: Step-by-Step Guide. (IMPORTANT READ)

2 Weather Resistance

Outdoor wall sconces are exposed to the elements, so it is important to choose a fixture that is weather-resistant. You can look for weather resistance light fixtures for outdoor use that are made of durable materials that can withstand wind, rain, and other environmental factors. 

3 Maintenance

Regular maintenance is important to ensure that your outdoor wall sconces continue to function safely and effectively. Regularly clean your fixtures and replace any bulbs that have burned out. 

If you notice any damage to the fixtures or wiring, it is important to have them repaired or replaced immediately.

Wrap Up

In summation, utilizing wall sconce light fixtures outdoors can heighten the security, safety, and aesthetic beauty of one’s outdoor living spaces. 

When selecting an outdoor wall sconce, one must consider the intended purpose of the fixture, the architectural style of their home and outdoor living spaces, and the robustness of the fixture. 

By taking these crucial factors into account, one can make an informed decision and choose the ideal outdoor wall sconce that meets their needs and preferences.