Refresh Your Outdoor Lighting with These Lamp Shade Cover Tips
Outdoor spaces like patios, porches, and gardens gain an inviting ambiance once the sun goes down by lighting up landscape features, accenting architectural details, and illuminating walking paths. But the glare from exposed bulbs can create an uncomfortable environment and detract from the overall design. This is where thoughtfully chosen outdoor lamp shade covers come in. Adding lamp shades to your exterior fixtures provides both form and function to maximize their visual appeal after dark.
Outdoor lamp shade covers not only enhance the aesthetic charm of outdoor lighting but also serve a practical purpose by protecting the bulb from environmental factors like wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. This is especially important in regions with harsh weather conditions. With the rise of energy-efficient lighting options, it's also essential to consider the energy efficiency of outdoor shades. Some covers are designed to help reduce energy consumption by filtering light and directing it precisely where it's needed.
By selecting the ideal lamp shade covers for your exterior spaces, you can create an outdoor oasis that truly comes alive at night. This guide will walk through the key types, features, and design considerations for choosing lamp shades that withstand the elements while taking your outdoor lighting to the next level.
Types of Outdoor Lamp Shade Covers
Outdoor lamp shades come in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials and attachment styles. Considering the unique needs of your exterior space will help narrow down the options.
By Material
The material choice for outdoor shades must stand up to sun, rain, snow, and temperature swings. Here are some top options:
- Plastic - Durable, weather resistant, and easy to clean. Moldable plastic allows for stylized shapes.
- Fabric - Available in a huge variety of colors, patterns, and textures to match any decor. Choose heavyweight, fade-resistant fabrics.
- Glass - An elegant choice that softly diffuses light. Look for tempered or thicker glass.
- Paper - Inexpensive lamp shade option that can be regularly replaced when worn. Select weatherproof paper.
By Shape
From classic to contemporary, outdoor lamp shade silhouettes range from traditional to modern:
- Bell - A popular, rounded shape that casts light upwards.
- Drum - Cylindrical design with even illumination.
- Rectangle - For a streamlined, linear look.
- Square - Provides a geometric accent.
- Empire - Distinguished by its wide flat bottom and tapered top.
- Cylinder - Straighter sides than a drum with top and bottom openings.
- Tapered Drum - Rounded shade with a smaller top opening.
By Attachment Method
Outdoor lamp shade covers fasten onto lighting fixtures in various ways:
- Spider Fittings - Metal arms that attach lamp shades to the bulb.
- Uno Fittings - Single central threaded connector.
- Clip-On - Spring loaded clips for easy on/off.
- Tabs - Self-adhesive, Velcro, or pull-through tabs.
Key Factors to Consider
Choosing the perfect outdoor lamp shade cover means accounting for technical factors along with your design preferences.
Weatherproofing
Since outdoor shades endure the elements, it's crucial to select materials and construction designed to shed rain and withstand sun and snow exposure without deteriorating over time. Here's what to look for:
- UV-resistant, waterproof, or weather-treated fabric
- Reinforced stitching for durability
- Rust-proof metals and hardware
- Tempered, frosted, or coated glass
Lighting Needs
The lamp shade style impacts the quality and direction of illumination cast by the bulb. Consider the lighting needs of your specific setting:
- Soft, diffused glow for ambience
- Focused spotlighting for tasks or safety
- Down-lighting for landscape features
- Task vs. ambient lighting needs
Size and Fit
A tailored size and shape ensures your lamp shade complements the fixture and fits properly by:
- Measuring fixture dimensions
- Accounting for bulb and harp clearance
- Allowing for wind or motion
Style and Design
Beyond function, outdoor shades present styling possibilities to enhance your decor. Consider:
- Colors, patterns, and materials to complement architecture
- Added embellishments or contrasts
- Matching shades to your home's decorative style
Getting the Right Fit
Take steps to find lamp shades tailored to your specific outdoor spot and fixtures.
Assess the Location
Your outdoor setting determines needed shade features like:
- Porch shade to filter a visible bulb
- Patio shade to provide ambient lighting
- Garden path shade to illuminate walkways
Evaluate Lighting Fixture
The shade must work with the existing fixture by accounting for:
- Bulb shape, size, and brightness
- Type of fitting and shade attachment
- Range of motion for articulating arms
Take Precise Measurements
For a perfect match, measure and note:
- Diameter and height of the fixture
- Size of lamp harp
- Required clearance around bulb
Shop Smart
To secure the ideal outdoor lamp shades:
- Browse online for wider selection and discounts
- Review return policies before purchasing
- Order free swatches to view colors and patterns
Keeping Covers Looking New
Make your outdoor lamp shades last longer and retain their visual appeal.
Proper Installation
- Follow manufacturer instructions
- Use provided hardware for mounting
- Check for secure and even positioning
Routine Care and Maintenance
- Clean per material recommendations
- Inspect for wear, fading or damage
- Store shades safely when not in use
Replacement Schedule
- Plan for average lifespan per material
- Watch for signs of deterioration
- Swap in fresh shades when worn
Outdoor lamp shade covers not only shield eyes from glare but also provide decorative appeal to enhance your exterior lighting. With the right materials, design, sizing and features, they can transform your outdoor spaces into inviting nighttime environments. Use this guide to select shade styles tailored to your specific needs. Then relax and enjoy your beautiful outdoor oasis.
Now that you know how to refresh your outdoor lighting with new lamp shades, it's time to start your lighting makeover. Breathe new life into your exterior spaces and protect your eyes from glare with durable, well-fitting lamp shade covers.