How to Choose Weather-Proof Outdoor Lighting
Posted by Your Lighting Pro on 5th Sep 2025
Outdoor lighting is an investment in safety, curb appeal, and year-round enjoyment. But if your fixtures can’t handle rain, snow, or temperature swings, you’ll be replacing them faster than you’d like. The solution? Choose weather-proof outdoor lighting designed to perform in all conditions. Here’s your guide to keeping your yard beautifully lit—rain or shine.
- Check the Fixture Rating
Always start with the rating:
- Wet-Rated Fixtures can handle direct rain, snow, and sprinklers.
- Damp-Rated Fixtures work in covered porches or patios, but not in open weather.
Look for UL or IP ratings to confirm weather resistance.
Where Do I Find Fixture Ratings? You can find the fixture ratings in any of the areas below. Since YardBright only manufactures outdoor landscape lighting, all of our products are either damp or wet rated.
- Product Specifications / Label
- On the box or product page, you’ll often see UL Listed (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL Listed (Intertek) followed by the rating:
- Dry Rated → indoor use only
- Damp Rated → covered outdoor areas (patios, porches)
- Wet Rated → safe for direct rain/snow exposure
- Fixture Body or Socket Label
- Many manufacturers print the rating on a sticker inside the housing or near the bulb socket.
- Manufacturer’s Website
- On spec sheets, product descriptions, or PDF cut sheets you’ll see the UL/ETL rating or IP rating (Ingress Protection).
- IP Rating (Common in LED & solar fixtures)
- You may see something like IP65 or IP44:
- First number = protection against solids (dust, debris).
- Second number = protection against liquids (rain, jets, immersion).
- Example: IP65 → dust tight + safe from water jets = very weather-proof.
- Retailer Notes (like YardBright.com)
- Outdoor lighting retailers usually note “wet-rated” or “IP-rated” in the product description since it’s a key selling point.
Quick Tip for Homeowners:
- Wet-rated = uncovered outdoors (driveways, pathways, garden, decks).
- Damp-rated = covered outdoors (porch ceilings, pergolas).
- Pick Durable Materials
Your fixture’s build makes a huge difference.
- Powder-Coated Aluminum resists rust.
- Brass & Stainless Steel last for decades, even in coastal climates.
- Resin & Heavy-Duty Plastics are tough, lightweight, and budget-friendly.
- Weather-Proof Construction
A solid design ensures long-term performance. Seek:
- Sealed housings to keep moisture out.
- Gaskets & waterproof connectors for extra protection.
- Shatter-resistant lenses that protect bulbs without dimming brightness.
- Energy-Smart Choices
LED technology isn’t just efficient—it’s also more reliable in temperature swings than traditional bulbs. Solar fixtures are a great option too, as long as their panels get enough sunlight to recharge.
- Match Function with Style
Choose fixtures that both look great and work hard:
- Path & Bollard Lights → Safer walkways and driveways.
- Spotlights → Highlight trees, architectural features, or holiday décor.
- Wall-Mounted Fixtures → Light up entryways for security.
- Deck & Step Lights → Keep gathering spaces safe and cozy.
YardBright’s Weather-Proof Lighting Picks
At YardBright, we believe your lighting should outlast the season. Our weather-resistant collection includes:
- Aluminum Path Lights (powder-coated to resist rust)
- Brass Spotlights (rugged, timeless, and built for all weather)
- LED Bollard Lights (sealed, stylish, and efficient)
- Deck & Step Lights (safe in wet environments)
- Solar Garden Lights (no wiring, eco-friendly, weather-rated)
When you choose weather-proof outdoor lighting, you’re choosing durability, safety, and beauty that lasts all year long. From rust-resistant path lights to sealed LED spotlights, YardBright has everything you need to keep your outdoors shining bright—rain, snow, or sunshine.
Explore all of our durable outdoor lighting today at YardBright.com
