Installing landscape lighting isn’t just about illuminating your yard — it’s about enhancing safety, curb appeal, and functionality that lasts long after the sun sets. With the right tools, planning, and product selection, even DIYers can achieve a professional-looking result.
At DEKOR®, we design our lighting with easy installation in mind, offering everything from plug-n-play systems to expert support. Here’s how to install landscape lighting like a pro — and avoid the common pitfalls.
Step 1: Plan Your Lighting Layout Thoughtfully
A great installation starts with a smart plan. Walk your property at dusk to see how the space really behaves after dark.
- Key areas to illuminate: Entryways, walkways, stairs, and standout plants or structures.
- Power source location: Know where your transformer will be housed and how far cables will need to run.
- Visibility & balance: Avoid lighting everything equally — focus on layering for visual interest.
Sketch your layout and consider lighting “zones” based on function: safety, ambiance, and accent.
Step 2: Gather the Right Gear
With a solid plan in place, it’s time to get your tools and materials ready. A smooth install starts with the right DEKOR components.
- Low-voltage transformer: Choose one with room for growth. Use our transformer calculator to determine the wattage needed.
- Connecting cables: Choose based on run length and fixture load. DEKOR cables make installation easy with plug-n-play connections.
- Landscape fixtures: Durable, low-voltage options like our LED path lights, puck lights, or uplights.
- Waterproof connectors, splitters, and mounting stakes.
Pro Tip: Our LED Landscape Light Kits come pre-configured for easy installation.
Step 3: Install Your Lighting with Precision
Now it’s time to bring your vision to life — carefully and methodically. Take your time with placement to avoid having to redo work later.
- Lay out fixtures above ground first to visualize placement.
- Use a flat-edged shovel to create shallow trenches for cable runs.
- Connect each fixture using waterproof connectors, leaving extra slack for adjustments.
- Test everything before burying wires.
Keep fixtures aligned with their intended light pattern and avoid placing them directly in line-of-sight to prevent glare.
Step 4: Final Touches for a Successful Installation
- Bury wires 4–6 inches deep and secure fixtures.
- Set your transformer on a timer or dusk-to-dawn sensor.
- Revisit the space at night to confirm lighting angles and balance.
Avoid These Common Landscape Lighting Mistakes
Even seemingly simple lighting installs can run into trouble. Steer clear of these missteps to keep your landscape illuminated and your system running as it should:
- Over-lighting every feature (less is more!)
- Incorrect transformer sizing
- Exposed wiring or non-waterproof connections
- No plan for future expansion
When to Hire a Pro
If your property includes slopes, heavy hardscaping, or multiple power zones, it may be worth partnering with a DEKORPRO for added expertise. If that’s the case, please contact us for more information. We’ll be happy to help.
Final Thoughts
Landscape lighting should blend into your environment while adding warmth and usability. Whether you’re lighting a winding path or spotlighting trees, thoughtful installation makes all the difference.
Explore our full line of LED landscape lighting and get started with DEKOR’s easy-to-install solutions. →
