Choosing the right type
Outdoor lighting for homes falls into three main groups, and Timbo's range covers all three:
| Type | Where it goes | What it does | Timbo sizes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall lantern (sconce) | Beside front doors, garages, side gates | Welcome light, security, facade feature | 57–71.2cm |
| Hanging lantern | Porch, verandah or pergola ceilings | Overhead light for entries and outdoor rooms | 48–60.3cm |
| Post (pillar) light | Gate pillars, fence posts, driveways | Marks entries and paths | 50.8–72cm |
Sizing: go bigger than you think
Outdoor lights look smaller from the street than they do in the box. A common rule is to choose a wall lantern about one-quarter to one-third of the door height. Beside a standard 2040mm Australian door that's about 50–70cm – right in the range of Timbo's 57, 62, 70 and 71.2cm wall lanterns. For double doors or tall entries, go to the upper end.
For post lights, consider the pillar width and the distance from the street: a 63.5cm or 72cm lantern reads clearly on a brick gate pillar.
Placement
- Front door: a pair either side, centred slightly above eye level.
- Garage: one lantern each side of the door, or between double doors.
- Paths and drives: post lights at entries and turns rather than in a long line.
- Verandahs and pergolas: a hanging lantern centred over the seating or entry.
Weather, IP ratings and coastal homes
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating tells you how well a fitting keeps out dust and water. The first digit covers solids, the second water: IP44 resists splashing water; IP65 is dust-tight and protected against water jets. Covered entries are gentler on fittings than fully exposed walls.
Within a few kilometres of the coast, salt air accelerates corrosion. Aluminium resists rust, but finishes can still pit – rinse fittings with fresh water every few months and check seals and glass.
Glass changes the mood
Timbo's lantern series use different glass: Clear Water (clear water-effect), Champagne Water (warm golden), Champagne Seeded (bubbled, sparkling), Coffee Beveled (rich, traditional) and White Frost (soft and glare-free).
Installation
In Australia and New Zealand, outdoor lights connected to mains wiring must be installed by a licensed electrician, who will also make sure the circuit is protected appropriately for outdoor use. Timbo supplies the fittings to partners and their electricians.
Sources
- IP code (ingress protection) – IEC 60529, summarised by the International Electrotechnical Commission
- Electrical work in Australia must be performed by licensed electricians – see state regulators, e.g. Energy Safe Victoria
Frequently asked questions
How high should I mount an outdoor wall lantern?
A common guide is to centre the lantern slightly above eye level – roughly 1.7–1.9m from the ground beside a standard door – or about one-quarter of the way down from the top of the door. Your electrician will also consider the switch and wiring location.
One lantern or two beside the front door?
Two lanterns either side of the door give the most balanced look. A single lantern works on the handle side of a narrow entry. Timbo outdoor styles are available singly or as pairs.
What IP rating do I need?
Under a covered porch, a fitting rated for outdoor use with splash protection (around IP44) is usually enough. Fully exposed walls, posts and garden lights benefit from higher protection such as IP65. Check the rating with your supplier and electrician.
Will aluminium lanterns rust near the beach?
Aluminium doesn't rust like steel, but salt air can still pit and dull finishes. Rinse coastal fittings with fresh water every few months and choose sheltered positions where possible.
Which bulbs should I use?
LED bulbs in warm white (about 2700–3000K) give a welcoming glow and low running costs. Clear glass lanterns show the bulb, so a decorative filament-style LED looks best; frosted glass hides the bulb.