Sustainable Outdoor Living: Combining Solar Lighting with Stone Decks
Homeowners and builders are looking to create an outdoor space that is both durable and low-maintenance. One of the best ways to do this is to combine a stone deck with solar lighting, which gives you a durable surface with clean, cost-effective lighting.
Outdoor Floor System enables homeowners and builders to build custom-designed stone decks with accurate planning and eco-friendly materials. This blog will explore how to create a sustainable outdoor setup by combining solar lights with stone decks.
Plan a Patio That Supports Solar Features
Before you start building a stone deck, plan the layout with your lighting needs in mind. Think about how you want to use the space. Some people prefer soft lighting for evening relaxation, while others enjoy brighter paths for movement around the yard.
Planning early helps you place solar lights where they will get enough sunlight during the day and shine evenly at night.
When you know where your seating, walkways, and gathering spots will be, it becomes easier to select lighting fixtures that fit your space. This also helps you choose deck materials that look clean and simple with the lights installed.
Select Sustainable and Long-Lasting Deck Materials
Stone decks are a strong choice for sustainable outdoor living because they last longer and require very little upkeep. Materials like recycled porcelain pavers, reclaimed stone pieces, and natural stone tiles are durable, weather resistant, and come in several styles and prices.
Pairing a stone deck with light or solar lights works perfectly because the surface often reflects soft light at night and can create a smooth walking or sitting area.
Use a Floating System to Improve Drainage and Stability
A floating support system plays a big role in how your deck performs. Traditional decks often sit directly on the ground and trap moisture. This can lead to sinking, stains, or uneven surfaces in the long run. The Outdoor Floor System lifts the stone tiles slightly, creating a clean space below where water can drain.
This helps keep the surface dry and improves the life of the materials used. It is also helpful for solar light placements around the walkways and makes it easy to lift a tile when necessary.
Choose Solar Lighting That Fits the Outdoor Space
The solar revolution is taking over the world, and solar lights have become the top choice of homeowners and builders. This is because these lights are energy efficient, can be easily installed, are durable, and last longer.
Another reason is the variety it offers to buyers. You can choose from solar deck lights, flood lights, wall-mounted fixtures, etc.
Think about how much light you need for your patio. Some patios are small and usually work best with low-level lighting and warmer colors. Larger patios, on the other hand, look best with lights placed near steps and borders.
Blend Lighting With Natural Surroundings
Stone decks look beautiful when paired with a natural and simple landscape. You can use native plants, gravel borders, and small planters to mix nature with the stone deck. Additionally, the solar lights will add a soft glow to the outdoor space.
Weather resistant furniture made from recycled materials or wood will complete the setup without adding much cost. Solar lights turn on at dusk, making the patio an inviting and welcoming place in the evenings.
Prepare the Ground Without Heavy Construction
Stone decks built with a floating system do not need deep digging or concrete. You only need to clear the area, remove debris, and level the soil lightly. If the area holds water, adding a thin layer of gravel helps with drainage and supports the pedestals.
This protects the soil and stone deck without impacting the environment. It also helps in future readjustments because the system can be reset and lifted when needed.
Simple Care for Long-Term Use
A stone deck paired with solar lighting requires very little maintenance. Sweeping the surface, rinsing the tiles, and removing leaves around the lights is usually all that is needed.
If a stone tile needs replacement, you can lift it without disturbing the entire surface. If a solar light malfunctions, it can be easily replaced with a new one since they don't have wiring attached.
Both the deck and lights are designed to last longer than conventional outdoor decks. You will get a beautiful outdoor space that remains attractive and functional for a longer period of time.
Conclusion
The combination of solar lights with stone decks is the best way of creating a sustainable outdoor living space. However, planning is essential to ensure your patio withstands harsh weather conditions and the test of time.
A floating support system like the Outdoor Floor System®, your stone deck becomes even more stable, better drained, and easier to maintain.
With the best design, your patio can become a natural place to relax and an outdoor space that reflects your lifestyle and care for the environment.
