Deck Lighting

Deck Lighting Installation for Homes

Outdoor Deck Lighting for Everyday Living

A well-lit deck turns your backyard into a true outdoor living room.

Whether you’re grilling, entertaining, or just enjoying some quiet time, the right lighting makes your deck safer, more functional, and more beautiful day or night.

At BTE Electric, we help homeowners across mid-Michigan and Northwest Michigan design and install custom deck lighting systems that look clean, last for years, and meet all safety and electrical code requirements.

Why Do Homeowners Add Deck Lighting?

Here’s what we hear all the time:

“We love our deck, but once the sun goes down, it’s useless.”
“We want lighting that adds some ambiance, not just a floodlight.”
“We need to make the stairs safer for our kids and guests.”
“We’re adding a new deck and want to do it right the first time.”
“We just installed composite decking and want lighting to match the quality.”

Deck lighting isn’t just about appearance. It’s about safety, comfort, and functionality.

Common Questions About Deck Lights

Q. What Types of Deck Lighting Do You Install?

ANSWER: We install all kinds of lighting systems for decks, including:

Post Cap Lights – Mounted on top of deck posts for a finished look and soft perimeter lighting
Step Lights – Installed into stair risers or side walls to improve safety after dark
Under-Rail LED Strips – Hidden lights that run beneath railings or benches for ambient glow
Recessed Deck Lights – Small, low-profile lights flush-mounted into the deck surface
Sconce or Wall Lights – Great for decks attached to homes, sheds, or pergolas
String or Pendant Lights – For covered decks or pergolas to add warmth and charm
Smart Lighting Controls – Control your deck lights from your phone or a wall dimmer

We’ll work with your layout and budget to design a system that gives you the exact feel you’re going for, whether that’s cozy and subtle or bright and active.

Q. What Does Code Require for Deck Lighting?

ANSWER: Deck lighting must follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) for outdoor installations. That includes:

GFCI protection for any outdoor outlets or circuits
Weatherproof, outdoor-rated fixtures and boxes
Low-voltage lighting transformers installed safely and properly
Proper conduit or UF-rated cable for power supply
Sealed connections to protect against moisture and corrosion

We never cut corners at BTE. Every light we install is safe, weather-tough, and wired to current electrical code.

Q. Can You Add Lighting to an Existing Deck?

ANSWER: Yes, we do that all the time.

Whether you have a new deck or one that’s been around for years, we can retrofit lighting with minimal disruption. We’ll carefully route wiring through joists or trim, use low-profile fixtures, and conceal cabling to keep everything looking clean.

And if you’re working with a contractor on a new build or remodel, we’re happy to coordinate directly with them for seamless installation.

Q. How Much Does Deck Lighting Cost?

ANSWER: Costs vary depending on deck size, the number of lights, access, and whether it’s a retrofit or new installation. Here’s a rough idea:

Basic post cap lighting or sconce addition: $250–$600
Full perimeter lighting with post caps, steps, and rail LEDs: $1,200–$3,500
Recessed deck lighting or under-bench lighting: $500–$2,000
Smart lighting upgrades or dimmers: $150–$300 per zone

We’ll give you an upfront, transparent quote before we begin. No surprises.

Q. Can deck lighting be dimmed or automated?

ANSWER: Absolutely. We can install dimmers, motion sensors, or smart switches that let you control brightness and timing easily, even from your phone.

Q. Will the lights get in the way or be too bright?

ANSWER: Not at all. Modern deck lights are low-profile and often dimmable. We design with your comfort in mind, no glare, no hot spots, just smooth, usable light.

Q. Will my lights be okay during Michigan winters?

ANSWER: Yes. All our deck lighting solutions are rated for outdoor use and selected for durability. Snow, rain, or heat, they’re built to last.

Q. Do I need low-voltage or line-voltage lighting?

ANSWER: That depends on your setup. Most decorative deck lighting is low-voltage for safety and flexibility, but we’ll help you choose what’s best for your needs.

Bring Your Deck to Life After Dark

A deck without lighting is only usable half the time.
With the right lighting, you get a warm, inviting, safe space that you and your family can enjoy every evening of the year.

Whether you want subtle step lighting, glowing rails, or a fully lit outdoor hangout, Bierlein-Trombley Electric will make it happen with clean wiring, weather-rated materials, and dependable service.

Ready to light up your deck? Reach out today for a personalized consultation and let’s make your backyard shine.

MENU