There are technicians, and there are artists – and Joe is a lighting artist.

Posted on April 20, 2024April 20, 2024 by admin in Landscape Lighting

a few recent 5 star google reviews

There are technicians, and there are artists – and Joe is a lighting artist.

I came in with a vision for what I wanted for my back yard patio, but Lite Visions landscape lighting of Raleigh showed me that I could have been aiming much higher. I’m nothing but pleased with how it turned out. The quality of the product and the service is very good, and they worked with me and my schedule to get things set up quickly and conveniently. Joe really, truly understood what I needed and was able to get the project done. Raleigh NC Clients

Joe did a great job of lighting our house. He’s very nice, talented, and shows up when he says he will. I wanted the lights to accentuate house, not so lit up that it’s like a runway. Because he has a background with doing lighting for concerts, he knew where to place the light for best results, not just randomly placing them anywhere. After driving around neighborhood, our landscape lighting is also ‘softer’ – not so bright and definitely not as white. You don’t think too much about that (at least I didn’t), until you look at everyone else’s. Personally, I think ours look better. It’s nice because he’s the owner and installer. We are very pleased that we went with him. Wake Forest NC Clients

Mandi Carbon

This is the best decision we made to have Joe come and transform our curb appeal by his deep expertise, passion and unique eye for lighting. He is an artist and a true professional. He is fair in his pricing and dedicated to delighting customers. We can’t wait to do more lighting with you in the future. Don’t look any further, I don’t know how you could have a better experience and result than Lite Visions! He also recommended Woody with Carolina Professional Landscapes to do some refreshing of our beds and plant varieties and it made a huge difference. If you need both, they are the dream team. Better Together: A Young Family Builds a Modern and Fun Place to Gather – WALTER Magazine

Joe did a superb job both in design and installation. Easy to work with and dependable. Highly recommend.

Great experience with Joe, a true artist! His many years of working with concert and theater lighting gives him a unique perspective and eye for what looks good – without being over the top. In our side yard natural areas, Joe placed several soft lights high in the trees, aimed downward that gave our yard a whole new perspective. We highly recommend Lite Visions Landscape Lighting. Cary NC Clients

Wonderful experience! Cannot say enough good things. Joe came, he saw, and he conquered with exquisite taste, patience, and good humor our new home construction project. We were indeed fortunate that friends recommended this lighting artist to us and he was willing to travel – repeatedly – two hours each way to give us this performance we joyfully now have night after night. Thank you Joe! New Bern NC Clients

There are technicians, and there are artists – and Joe is an artist. We live on a large wooded lot and recently did a major house remodel which required pulling up a lot of our existing lighting that was over 15 years old. Joe was recommended to us and once we became aware of his background in theatrical lighting and got a Iook at his website we couldn’t wait to work with him. Joe came out on a Saturday and did a complete and thorough walk around of our lot, asking questions about what we wanted and also making suggestions. He was a pleasure to talk to and to be around, totally down to earth, absolutely no BS. By the end of that consultation, which lasted a couple of hours, we pretty much decided to give Joe carte blanche to do a complete and total reset, so confident were we in the vision he had for our property – and we are so glad that we did. Joe works with what I would call a “soft palette” – he fills in spaces with light and with balance. He most definitely “paints a picture” The resultant effect is calming to the spirit and beautiful to the eye. After the installation, he came back out two nights in a row to make sure we were happy with the vision he had created and that he was happy with it too. Like I said, Joe is an artist. He is also a genuinely nice guy who I have enjoyed getting to know just as much as I’ve enjoyed working with him. I really can’t offer a higher recommendation than that. Raleigh NC Clients

From Concert Stages to Enchanting Nighttime Landscapes

Posted on December 31, 2023December 31, 2023 by admin in Landscape Lighting

From Concert Stages to Enchanting Nighttime Landscapes The Artistry of a Landscape Lighting Designer

Introduction: As a landscape lighting designer with a background in concert and stage lighting, I bring a unique artistic perspective to transform outdoor spaces into captivating visual experiences. With over 35 years of experience in the industry, I have honed my skills in creating stunning lighting designs that are both visually stimulating and environmentally friendly. In this blog, we will explore how my expertise in concert lighting translates into creating enchanting landscapes using the best lighting products and techniques.

The Art of Lighting Design:

Drawing inspiration from my concert lighting background, I approach landscape lighting as an art form. I understand the importance of lighting elements in creating ambiance, highlighting focal points, and evoking emotions. By utilizing my artistic eye, I can bring landscapes to life, just as I did on concert stages.

Premium Lighting Products:

To ensure the highest quality lighting experience, I exclusively work with the best lighting products available to professional lighting designers. By using top-of-the-line LED equipment, I guarantee visually stunning results that are long-lasting and energy-efficient. These products offer superior performance, longevity, and a lower environmental impact compared to traditional lamps.

Soft and Gentle Illumination:

Unlike many landscape lighting installations that tend to be overly bright, I take a different approach. By employing lower lumens and employing soft lighting techniques, I create a gentle and harmonious illumination that enhances the natural beauty of the surroundings. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing evenings or entertaining guests.

Customized Lighting Solutions:

Every landscape is unique, and I understand the importance of tailoring lighting designs to suit individual preferences and specific outdoor spaces. Whether it’s illuminating pathways, accentuating architectural features, or creating a resort-like oasis, I work closely with clients to design customized lighting solutions that exceed their expectations.

Environmental Considerations:

In addition to creating captivating lighting designs, I prioritize environmental sustainability. LED low-voltage landscape lighting not only provides exceptional longevity but also reduces energy consumption and minimizes the carbon footprint. By choosing eco-friendly lighting solutions, we can contribute to a greener future while enjoying the beauty of our outdoor spaces.

Conclusion:

With my extensive experience in concert and stage lighting, I bring a unique artistic approach to landscape lighting design. By utilizing the best lighting products available and employing soft lighting techniques, I create enchanting landscapes that captivate the senses. If you’re looking to transform your outdoor space into a mesmerizing oasis, contact me today to experience the artistry of landscape lighting design.

See the difference on your own property

www.litevisions.com

There are technicians, and there are artists – and Joe is an artist

The Essential Guide to Landscape Lighting Maintenance

Posted on July 2, 2023August 31, 2023 by admin in Landscape Lighting

The Essential Guide to Landscape Lighting Maintenance: Keep Your Outdoor Space Radiant

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Introduction:

Weather you have a new or older outdoor landscape lighting system, the essential guide to landscape lighting maintenance will help you maintain your outdoor lighting system. Maintaining your landscape lighting is essential to keep your outdoor space radiant and beautiful. Proper maintenance ensures that your lights stay in optimal condition, enhancing the overall ambiance of your property. In this guide, we will explore the importance of landscape lighting maintenance, common issues that arise, tips for preventing problems, the benefits of hiring a professional, and the cost associated with maintenance. Whether you choose to take a DIY approach or hire a professional, this guide will equip you:

There are thousands of old halogen outdoor landscape lighting systems in our area that are in dire need of proper maintennce and have been neglected or need to be changed out to green friendly energy saving led lighting.

The Essential Guide to Landscape Lighting Maintenance:

How to Keep Your Outdoor Space Radiant

‍Why landscape lighting maintenance is important

As the sun sets and darkness envelops your outdoor space, landscape lighting becomes the key element in creating a captivating ambiance. It not only enhances the beauty of your garden but also provides safety and security. However, to ensure that your landscape lighting continues to shine brightly, regular maintenance is crucial.

Proper landscape lighting maintenance ensures that your outdoor space remains radiant throughout the year. Over time, weather conditions, natural elements, and wear and tear can affect the performance and appearance of your lighting fixtures. By taking proactive measures and implementing a maintenance routine, you can extend the lifespan of your landscape lighting and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

Common issues with landscape lighting

Despite the benefits of landscape lighting, it is not immune to issues that can arise over time. Some common problems include:

Lamp failure: Over time, light bulbs can burn out or become dim. This can be caused by power surges, faulty wiring, or simply the natural lifespan of the bulb.
Corrosion: Outdoor lighting fixtures, their connections and wiring are exposed to the elements, making them susceptible to corrosion. Rust and deterioration can affect the performance and aesthetics of your landscape lighting.
Wiring problems: Faulty wiring can lead to flickering lights, intermittent functionality, or complete failure. This can be caused by improper installation, rodent damage, or natural wear and tear.
Moisture damage: Moisture can seep into lighting fixtures, causing electrical shorts and damage. This is particularly common in areas with high humidity or heavy rainfall.
Overgrown landscaping that no longer allows the lighting fixtures to no longer do the job they once did.

Alt"cheap landscape lighting fixtures falling apart after 1 year" — cheap fixture falling apart

Tips for preventing landscape lighting issues

To avoid common landscape lighting issues and ensure optimal performance, it is important to implement preventive maintenance. Here are some tips to help you maintain your outdoor lighting:

Regular cleaning: Dirt, debris, Mulch, Pollen and cobwebs can accumulate on your lighting fixtures, affecting their brightness and appearance. Clean your fixtures lens regularly using a gentle cleanser and non-abrasive cloth to remove any build-up.
Replace bulbs: Regularly check the bulbs in your landscape lighting fixtures and replace any that are dim or burned out. This will ensure consistent brightness and prevent strain on the wiring.
Trim vegetation: Overgrown vegetation can obstruct the path of light and create shadows. Trim trees, shrubs, and other plants to maintain clear pathways for your landscape lighting

Hiring a professional for landscape lighting maintenance

While DIY maintenance can be effective, hiring a professional for landscape lighting maintenance offers several advantages. A professional technician has the expertise and experience to identify and address any issues before they escalate. They can also provide comprehensive maintenance services, including thorough cleaning, bulb replacement, and troubleshooting.

Furthermore, professionals have access to specialized tools and equipment that can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your landscape lighting. They can also provide valuable recommendations for upgrading or enhancing your lighting system based on your specific needs and preferences.

DIY landscape lighting maintenance vs. professional maintenance

If you have the time, knowledge, and resources, DIY landscape lighting maintenance can be a viable option. It allows you to take control of the maintenance process and save money on professional services. However, it is important to note that DIY maintenance requires a certain level of technical expertise and can be time-consuming and most well meaning people will just never get around to it.

On the other hand, professional maintenance offers convenience and peace of mind. By entrusting the maintenance of your landscape lighting to experts, you can focus on other aspects of your outdoor space while ensuring that your lighting system remains in top condition. Professionals can also provide regular maintenance schedules and reminders, taking the guesswork out of the process.

Cost of landscape lighting maintenance

The cost of landscape lighting maintenance can vary depending on several factors, including the size of your outdoor space, the complexity of your lighting system, and the specific services required. DIY maintenance can be cost-effective as it only requires purchasing cleaning supplies and replacement bulbs.

Professional maintenance services, on the other hand, typically involve a one-time or recurring fee. Some companies offer maintenance packages that include regular inspections, cleaning, bulb replacement, and troubleshooting. The cost of these packages can range from a few hundred dollars to more depending on the level of service and the size of your outdoor space.

Ultimately, the cost of landscape lighting maintenance should be seen as an investment in the longevity and performance of your lighting system. By properly maintaining your landscape lighting, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements in the future and have a lighting system last past its lifespan.

Troubleshooting common landscape lighting problems

Even with regular maintenance, landscape lighting issues can still arise. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips:

Flickering lights: Flickering lights can be caused by loose connections, faulty bulbs, or a power surge. Check the connections and tighten any loose fittings. Replace any bulbs that are flickering or dim. If the issue persists, consult a professional.
Dim lights: Dim lights can be a sign of a bulb nearing the end of its lifespan or a power issue. Replace the bulbs with new ones and ensure that the power supply is stable.
Complete failure: If your landscape lighting system is not working at all, check the power supply, connections, and bulbs. If everything appears to be in order, consult a professional to identify and resolve the issue. We get many call after a landscaper or contractor has done recent work that the lighting isn’t working.
Uneven lighting: Uneven lighting can be caused by misaligned fixtures or obstructions and anything from a squirrel to a deer knocking a light out of adjustment. Adjust the fixtures to ensure they are properly aligned and clear any obstructions that may be blocking the light.

Proper pruning of plants around landscape lighting: https://gambinolighting.com/2020/07/03/tree-and-shrub-pruning-is-vitally-important-for-night-lighting/

Conclusion

Maintaining your landscape lighting is essential to keep your outdoor space radiant and functional. By implementing a regular maintenance routine, you can prevent common issues, extend the lifespan of your lighting fixtures, and ensure optimal performance. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, landscape lighting maintenance is an investment that will enhance the beauty and safety of your outdoor space for years to come.

Ready to keep your outdoor space radiant? Contact our professional landscape lighting maintenance team today for expert services and peace of mind.

My Background in Theatrical and Stage Lighting led me to start my landscape lighting company in Raleigh NC

Outdoor Lighting and Audio Raleigh NC

Posted on April 7, 2023April 8, 2023 by admin in Landscape Lighting, outdoor audio

Joe was a Raleigh NC native who had been a concert technician and lighting designer for many years, travelling 10 months out of the year. But he was looking for a way to come off the road and do something closer to home. So, when he talked to a friend who was designing and installing backyard resorts with outdoor audio and landscape lighting systems, he knew he had found the perfect opportunity to marry his two passions – lighting design and the outdoors.

Joe realized that he could take all of the skills he had developed over the years in the concert lighting industry and apply them to creating dreamscapes for homes and landscapes. He knew that his experience designing lighting systems for large venues could be applied to creating stunning outdoor landscape lighting systems for architectural features and backyard areas. Using the best products in the professional industry, Joe is able to design custom outdoor landscape lighting systems that will take a home or landscape to the next level. His outdoor landscape lighting systems are designed to bring a unique and creative touch to your home or landscape.

From accent lighting to show off certain architectural features of your home or landscaped areas, to functional lighting that will provide illumination and safety, Joe can design a system that will meet your needs. In addition to traditional outdoor landscape lighting systems, Joe can also design and install sophisticated audio systems for your outdoor space. He can provide powerful and high-quality speakers for your outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy your favorite music outdoors. Whether you are entertaining friends or just relaxing in the evenings, having an outdoor audio system will help to make your backyard experience even more enjoyable.

Joe’s experience as a concert technician and lighting designer has given him the skills to create stunning outdoor lighting and audio systems for your home or landscape. With his expertise and the best products in the professional industry, Joe can help you create the backyard dreamscape of your dreams. From accent lighting to audio systems, Joe can provide the perfect lighting and audio systems for your home or landscape.

Come see us at the NC State Fairgrounds Southern Ideal Home Show https://www.raleighfairgroundshomeandgardenshow.com/virtual-home/shop-the-show/exhibitor/lite-visions-landscape-lighting-and-outdoor-audio

Create An Outdoor Oasis

Posted on February 12, 2023 by admin in Landscape Lighting, outdoor audio

Are you looking to create an outdoor oasis where you can relax and unwind after a stressful day?

With the help of a certified landscape lighting designer, you can do exactly that! Lite Visions is the best choice when it comes to creating your dream outdoor space, complete with atmospheric lighting and audio that will help you de-stress and enjoy the outdoors.

Using a certified lighting designer with years of experience in lighting up concert stages will ensure that your outdoor space is lit up in the most conducive way possible. The lighting designer will work with you to come up with the perfect lighting plan that will bring out the best in your outdoor area.

With the right illumination, you can have a cozy and inviting atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. In addition to the lighting, the certified landscape lighting designer will also be able to install outdoor audio to complete the outdoor oasis.

You can have soft music playing in the background to help you relax and unwind after a long day. With the help of an expert, you can be sure that the audio system is set up in the best possible way to create a pleasant ambiance.

At Lite Visions, we understand the importance of having an outdoor oasis that can help you unwind and relax. With the help of our certified lighting designer, we can help you create the perfect outdoor space that is tailored to your needs and will make you feel at home. With the best lighting and audio solutions, you can be sure that your outdoor oasis is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Experience what makes Lite Visions your best choice for all your outdoor lighting and audio needs.

Lite Visions Landscape Lighting Raleigh NC

919-518-9950

PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR LANDSCAPE LIGHTING IS NOT CHEAP!CHEAP OUTDOOR LANDSCAPE LIGHTING IS NOT GOOD

Posted on December 31, 2019January 1, 2020 by admin in Landscape Lighting, Outdoor Lighting

Professional outdoor landscape lighting is not cheap, and Cheap outdoor landscape lighting is not good.

I work with an interior designer who says “Do it right and you only cry once”. My outdoor lighting designs include seeing the effects not the light source.I work with many different types of fixtures, lamps,color temperatures,filters and shields. Along with Professional lighting that lasts a very long time.

Examples of a few BAD lighting installations Lite Visions took out and redid for the homeowners.

Big box store lighting kits are JUNK,come with horrible non water tight connectors that pierce your wire which is the worst thing to do.They come with poor lighting fixtures that start falling apart and come with a not good transformer.

Maintenance is a must,I can’t tell you how many old installs I get called to look at where a fixture or cable has grown into a tree.Old wires and bad connections that do no longer provide proper voltage to the lights.

Lite Visions, when you want it done right the first time Call Us.

WHAT IS OUTDOOR SECURITY LIGHTING & WHY IS IT IMPORTANT

Posted on September 11, 2019September 6, 2019 by admin in Landscape Lighting

OUTDOOR SECURITY LIGHTING RALEIGH

Security lighting should provide security by discouraging trespassers. A well-lit home is less likely to be broken into.

Outdoor landscape lighting adds beauty and dimension to a home. Lighting is also an integral part of an effective home security system. Outdoor security lighting discourages would-be intruders from targeting your home by increasing the risk of being caught. The best lighting design allows physical detection and facial recognition minimizes hiding spots and increases your sense of safety.

You don’t have to light your home like a football field to feel safe. Over-illumination with floodlights pointed all over can draw unwanted attention to valuable items in your home or business and can cause light pollution. In this guide, we offer an overview of security lighting and simple tips to help you identify potential safety and security risks, select the best security lights, and determine their placement to ensure your safety and security.

A 2007 Washington Post article found burglars search for homes that appear to be unoccupied. Lighting adds an element of surprise and establishes an occupancy pattern that deters intruders from targeting a home in the first place. Residents that use outdoor lighting as part of their security plan significantly decrease their chances of being burglarized.

The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) further explains that good security lighting anticipates potential threats and predators, and increases the means necessary to commit a crime, discouraging would-be criminals from breaking into a home. This security approach is known as target hardening. In other words, the longer it takes to plan and execute a break in, the less likely criminals are to target that home. According to the IES, home security lighting must have the following aims:

Provide a clear view of the area; including people and objects such as fences, walls and barriers
Allow facial recognition at a minimum distance of 30 feet
Make tasks such as finding your keys, retrieving the mail, or walking the dog easier and safer
Help people avoid criminal threats and/or defend themselves when a threat is perceived
Enhance your sense of safety when spending time outdoors

Call us Today 919-518-9950 Lite Visions Outdoor Lighting and Landscape Lighting Professionals Raleigh NC

Creating a private escape in your backyard with outdoor lighting.

Posted on September 9, 2019September 5, 2019 by admin in Landscape Lighting, Outdoor Lighting

CREATING A PRIVATE ESCAPE IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD

Beautiful landscaping, a backyard patio area, and a water feature already highlight your backyard space. Perhaps even a walled privacy fence with some beautiful plant material in front of it. Could life be any better?The answer is yes, with outdoor landscape lighting you cannot only enjoy that area into the evening hours, but with the right lighting, you can create your own personal backyard escape.Imagine walking down your newly illuminated pathway with a glass of wine enjoying the moonlit effect heading down to the softly lit gazebo to chill out and listen to the crickets and frogs singing beside the now artfully highlighted bridge over your water feature.You sit back, enjoy your glass of wine and ask yourself why you did not do this eight years ago. Life is good in your new private backyard escape.

BUILDING A NEW HOME? MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE THE LED LIGHTING OPTION

Posted on August 25, 2019August 21, 2019 by admin in Landscape Lighting

I did a home and garden show recently and spoke to a lot of couples who were building homes. When we started talking about things they were doing I was surprised to find out LED lighting isn’t a standard in every home built today. I can’t imagine installing landscape lighting today with the old, not efficient halogen light bulbs that do not last. With most LED manufactures giving a warranty of 5 years or 50,000 hours I can’t imagine why LED lamps are not required and why the old very un-efficient halogen can lights used in most homes are still installed in this day. If you are building or remodeling a home, please do yourself a favor and ask the builder or electrician about the many LED options available from can lights to very nice track lighting and wall sconces. Visit a professional lighting showroom and have them go over the options with you. Most LED sources are also able to work with dimmers and if you are installing a beautiful stone fireplace, do yourself a favor and have them install some LED track lighting just above the stone with the lights focused down along the stone. There are also many nice outdoor LED fixtures for garages and floodlights. There is ever a very interesting LED candle flame effect that looks really nice in the outdoor lantern type fixtures. Do yourself a favor and use energy-saving green friendly LED lights in your home and watch the power bill go down.

https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/save-electricity-and-fuel/lighting-choices-save-you-money/

Why you should hire a lighting designer to design and install your outdoor lighting.

Posted on July 3, 2019July 3, 2019 by admin in Landscape Lighting

Poor Outdoor Lighting and Installations. Sadly, this happens more than we’d all like to see. In most cases, Poor lighting installations occur when service providers are rushed, or just don’t care enough about the outcome of the lighting project. Take for example another service provider who is rushing his installer so they can go to the next irrigation or pond project and probably do not care about your lighting like a Lighting designer who does 100% lighting only. In some cases, they occur because the service provider just chose the easiest or simplest or even the cheapest way to install light fixtures. If we consider those jobs that are rushed or those which are simple and easy, then we will generally find the lighting installer is performing in a “production-oriented” environment. This seems to happen a lot with outdoor lighting franchises.They see most every job as the same—to get in and out of the job quickly, because time is money. They tend to provide ‘cookie-cutter’ projects (ones that look the same), because that’s what they know with cheap fixtures and lamps. Lighting should never be installed under windows that shine into an occupied part of the home and we see this alot on franchise lighting installs. The other reason in understanding why these combined flaws occur is Only because the lighting installer truly is ineffective and lacks knowledge.Some of the franchises run ads on a regular basis for installers. This is very unfortunate because it hurts everyone—the professional, the industry, and the consumer. This type of behavior is part of the profession and how this profession is viewed. There is No governing authority to correct Poor Practice and these Poor Techniques from being provided. We at Lite Visions attend several continuing education seminars and are a member of the Association of outdoor lighting professionals. We also have a lengthy history in the live music industry as a lighting technician and lighting designer.

The only way to prevent this from becoming more prevalent is through Education and Understanding what is right and wrong. Poor Techniques include poor practices & standards, as well as the use of poor products. Landscape lighting products are another area of concern because there are so many available on the market. We can only try to educate the public ,but sometimes the consumer simply does not know. The best way to ensure this quality is to do research and to make the best selection of your Lighting Designer as you can—and choose those with lighting design and installation experience as well as troubleshooting skills. Believe it or not we have heard horror stories about a lighting installer who a week after the install when 1/2 of the lights were out could not troubleshoot his own installation.

Avoid a poorly installed outdoor lighting installation

Call us today

Lite Visions

919-518-9950