Update Porch Lights
Porch lights do more than illuminate—they're jewelry for your home's face. Outdated fixtures age your house instantly, while stylish ones elevate everything.
Quick Summary
30-60 min
$50-400
Moderate
Very High
Fixture Styles by Home Type
Modern/Contemporary
Clean lines, geometric shapes, matte black or brushed nickel finishes. Look for fixtures with frosted glass or integrated LED panels.
Examples: Box lanterns, cylinder sconces, minimalist wall lights
Traditional/Colonial
Classic lantern shapes with clear or seeded glass. Oil-rubbed bronze, aged copper, or black finishes. Decorative details like scrollwork.
Examples: Carriage lanterns, gas light style, coach lights
Farmhouse/Craftsman
Industrial-inspired fixtures with visible hardware. Matte black, copper, or weathered finishes. Clear glass with Edison bulbs.
Examples: Barn lights, gooseneck sconces, mission-style lanterns
Mid-Century Modern
Atomic-inspired shapes, brass accents, frosted globes. Simple but sculptural forms.
Examples: Sputnik-inspired, globe sconces, tapered cylinders
Sizing Guidelines
Fixtures that are too small is the most common mistake. Use these formulas:
Single fixture beside door:
Height should be 1/4 to 1/3 the height of your door (for 80" door: 20-27" tall fixture)
Two fixtures flanking door:
Each should be about 1/4 door height. Center fixtures at eye level (66" from ground)
Above garage:
Use larger fixtures—should be visible from the street. 1/4 to 1/3 of garage door height
Smart Features to Consider
Motion Sensors
Built-in or add-on sensors that turn lights on when someone approaches. Great for security and convenience.
Dusk-to-Dawn
Photocell that automatically turns lights on at sunset and off at sunrise. Set and forget.
Smart Home Integration
Control via app, set schedules, or integrate with Alexa/Google Home. Some have built-in cameras.
Color Temperature
2700K (warm) for traditional feel, 3000K for clean modern look. Avoid 4000K+ outdoors—too blue/harsh.
Installation Steps
!Safety first: Always turn off power at the breaker before starting. Test with a voltage tester to confirm power is off.
1. Turn Off Power
Flip the breaker for the circuit. Test the existing fixture to confirm power is off.
2. Remove Old Fixture
Remove light bulbs, unscrew mounting screws, carefully pull fixture away from wall. Disconnect wires (usually wire nuts).
3. Check Junction Box
Ensure the junction box is securely mounted and rated for your fixture's weight. Upgrade if necessary.
4. Install Mounting Bracket
Attach new fixture's mounting bracket to junction box using provided hardware.
5. Connect Wires
Connect black to black (hot), white to white (neutral), and green/bare to green/bare (ground). Secure with wire nuts.
6. Attach Fixture
Tuck wires into box, align fixture with mounting bracket, secure with screws. Add any glass shades or covers.
7. Add Bulbs and Test
Install appropriate bulbs (check max wattage), restore power at breaker, test fixture.
Bulb Recommendations
- •LED bulbs for energy efficiency and long life (15,000+ hours). Worth the higher upfront cost.
- •2700K color temperature for warm, welcoming light. 3000K for slightly brighter, cleaner look.
- •400-800 lumens for porch lights (40-60W equivalent). Brighter for security, dimmer for ambiance.
- •Dimmable bulbs if you have or plan to add a dimmer switch.
- •Edison-style LED for fixtures with clear glass—decorative filament with LED efficiency.
When to Hire a Pro
Consider hiring an electrician if:
- • Junction box needs to be relocated
- • You're adding new fixtures where none exist
- • Wiring looks old, damaged, or non-standard
- • You're not comfortable working with electrical
- • Local code requires permits for electrical work
Typical cost for electrician to swap fixtures: $75-150 per fixture.