Mobile Illumination

Outdoor Lighting Design & Installation

The Art of LightscapingTM

Outdoor Security Lights For Your Home

Owning a home is one of life’s most rewarding achievements—but protecting it requires proactive planning. Crime can happen anywhere, and according to FBI statistics cited on SafeWise, a burglary occurs every 30 seconds in the U.S. That’s more than 3,000 break-ins per day. Yet nearly 40% of homeowners take no steps to deter intruders.

The good news? A thoughtfully designed exterior security lighting system can dramatically reduce risks while elevating the beauty, safety, and value of your property. As more families spend time at home, especially post–COVID, the demand for safe, functional outdoor spaces has only increased. Security lighting provides clarity, visibility, and peace of mind—all while enhancing your nighttime landscape.

Mobile Illumination specializes in professional, low-voltage exterior and landscape security lighting throughout Northridge and Greater Los Angeles. Below is your guide to creating a safer, more secure home using strategic lighting design.

Identify and Protect High-Value Items

Before installing lighting, walk through your property and locate valuable outdoor items such as tools, ladders, lawn equipment, grills, or patio furniture. These items should be secured, concealed, or locked away, especially ladders and tools that could help a burglar access your home. Lighting supports security efforts, but eliminating opportunity is the first line of defense.

Survey Your Landscape Before Dark

Take a moment to observe your property at night. Look for dark pockets, deep shadows, and areas where a trespasser could easily conceal themselves. Pay attention to:

  • Entry points (front door, back door, side door, garage)

  • Walkways and steps

  • Large trees or dense landscaping

  • Side yards or areas with limited visibility

Your local police department may offer home safety inspections—an excellent free resource for homeowners.

Be a Good Neighbor With Thoughtful Lighting

Security lighting doesn’t have to be blinding or intrusive. A well-designed system:

  • Enhances curb appeal

  • Complements your home’s architecture

  • Improves visibility

  • Deters intruders

  • Avoids harsh glares or shining into neighbors’ windows

Balancing aesthetics with protection is key, something Mobile Illumination specializes in.

The Top Benefits of Installing Outdoor Security Lighting

Personal Safety & Accident Prevention

A well-lit exterior drastically reduces the chance of trips, falls, and nighttime navigation issues. Clear visibility helps family members, guests, delivery drivers, and service providers feel safer moving around your property — especially important for those with visual challenges.

Crime Deterrence & Home Protection

Security lighting increases the risk of detection for would-be intruders, minimizing hiding spots and making your home appear occupied even when you’re away. Studies show that well-lit homes experience significantly fewer burglary attempts compared to dark or shadowy properties.

Enhanced Outdoor Living & Functionality

Lighting extends your living space into the evening. A softly illuminated yard, patio, or garden inspires more outdoor gatherings and highlights your home’s best features long after sunset.

Increased Property Value & Potential Insurance

Homebuyers love properties with established outdoor lighting. High-quality security lighting enhances curb appeal and may even qualify you for homeowner’s insurance discounts by reducing theft-risk indicators.

Key Security Lighting Techniques For Maximum Protection

Layered Security Lighting

An effective security lighting plan uses multiple layers of illumination. This can include:

  • Motion-activated lighting (ideal for entry points and dark corners)

  • Timed lighting (consistency for daily routines and travel)

  • Always-on ambient lighting (for pathways and landscape features)

  • Dual-technology systems that integrate photocells, timers, and sensors

Layering helps avoid sharp shadows, provides uniform coverage, and reduces blind spots.

Flood Lights

Floodlights provide broad coverage and are one of the most effective security lighting tools. Modern floodlights offer:

  • Adjustable heads

  • Motion detection

  • High-lumen output (typically 700–1300 lumens for residential use)

These fixtures are ideal for illuminating backyards, driveways, alleys, and large open spaces.

Path Lights & Area Lights

Path and area lights create multiple pools of light for visibility and safety. They:

  • Illuminate walkways, steps, and entrances

  • Reduce the risk of falls

  • Help you identify approaching visitors

  • Add aesthetic appeal with decorative fixture options

Omnidirectional fixtures offering 360° illumination are excellent for pathways and high-traffic zones.

Downlights

Mounted on eaves, trees, or architectural structures, downlights provide:

  • Elevated area lighting

  • A natural “moonlighting” effect

  • Subtle, beautiful security illumination

They increase visibility while enhancing your property’s aesthetic profile.

High-Priority Areas to Illuminate

1. Front & Back Yard Blind Spots

Unlit corners, large trees, and shadowy boundaries are prime concealment zones. Floodlights combined with motion sensors minimize opportunities for intruders.

2. Entrances & Pathways

Doorways, porches, and walkways should always be illuminated. Security lighting makes door handles, railings, and keyholes easier to see—and makes break-ins significantly more difficult.

3. Garage & Storage Sheds

Garages and sheds often contain high-value items such as tools, bikes, and equipment. Bright, evenly spaced floodlights and motion sensors make these areas far less appealing to burglars.

Smart Control Options

Modern exterior lighting can be automated for effortless security:

  • Motion sensors: Activate instantly when movement is detected

  • Timers: Program on/off times to mimic occupancy

  • Photocells: Turn lights on at dusk and off at dawn

  • App-based controls: Manage your system from your phone

Stay Aware: Helpful Crime Monitoring Apps

Stay informed about local incidents with these free resources:

  • SpotCrime

  • MyLocalCrime

  • CRIMEWATCH

  • Askari

  • WeAlert

Illuminate Your Home With Confidence

A professional outdoor security lighting system deters burglars, protects your valuables, minimizes accidents, and elevates your property’s nighttime beauty. Mobile Illumination proudly serves Northridge and surrounding communities with custom exterior and landscape lighting design, installation, and maintenance.

Ready to enhance your home’s safety and curb appeal? Contact Mobile Illumination today to schedule a consultation with our security lighting experts.

Want inspiration? Explore our gallery and follow us on Instagram for real project examples.

Have Any Questions?

To learn more about how Mobile Illumination can help you add beautiful landscape lighting to your home , click here to contact us or give us a call below.
800.840.1777