Finally done and installed from my new insulated patio cover extending off the back of the house.
I have been using those energy saving curly bulbs. Don't like the white light from some, others have a softer yellow light, as more companies step in to make these, we'll find the ones we like best. I certainly like using a 13 watt bulb that produces 60 watts of light. And because it's super bright white light, it seems even brighter than 60 watts. I also don't like the look of the curly bulb, but it's growing on me.
Outdoor lighting is terribly expensive, and there are few local options of where to purchase it. I decided on 3 hanging pendant type lamps. These particular ones were very inexpensive, black with clear glass on 4 sides. I wanted something different, interesting, fun, colorful out there... not the norm. Outside ceiling fans get buggy and webby and dirty and are very expensive, they hang low and the lighting is boring. Considered spots, but my husband pointed out that whatever we put out there should be enclosed so the bees can't get in and build nests (very smart). Considered a disco ball, figured I'd make it, but then we'd have the issue of lighting it and I can't use energy efficient bulbs there, so decided no. I did find a self contained disco ball light that had TWO balls that rotated and came with multicolored lights attached for a great light show. But then I thought, no. What, am I still 20? So, I decided instead to do something artsy, and pretty. I bought 4 pieces of stained glass and a tube of GE Silicone 2 Clear. Most people mosaic by breaking the glass. Oh, but no, not me. I CUT these pieces just like when I made the car. This was a bit different though. Harder. But I like the effect. Oh, there's a matching wall lamp, with 6 panes of glass. It's larger, same manufacturer, color and style, but I'm not putting stained glass on them. That one is just for plain lighting. The pendants have been put on a separate switch for softer lighting when sitting out there at night. The bigger wall lamp is for security.
For the record, stay away from the Portfolio brand of lighting sold at Lowes. Missing parts, parts that don't fit, pain in the butt.
David Cisneros came out, wired and installed these. I'm very pleased and he is very good. If you need an electrician, contact me and I'll hook you up.
:)
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