3 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Commercial Exterior Lighting in Calgary

Exterior lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing security, visibility, and curb appeal for businesses in Calgary. However, poor planning or improper installation can result in inefficient lighting, increased costs, and security risks. Whether you own a retail store, office, or industrial facility, ensuring your commercial exterior lighting is installed correctly is essential. Frontline Security specializes in professional commercial lighting solutions in Calgary, helping businesses avoid common mistakes and achieve the best lighting setup. 

Here are three of the most common mistakes business owners make when installing commercial exterior lighting—and how to avoid them. 

1. Poor Placement Leading to Ineffective Coverage 

One of the biggest mistakes in commercial exterior lighting installation is the poor placement of lights. Installing fixtures too far apart, too close together, or in ineffective positions can lead to uneven illumination, dark spots, and glare issues. Poorly placed lighting compromises security, as dimly lit areas make it easier for intruders to hide and reduces curb appeal, making your business look uninviting. 

How to Avoid It: 

• Conduct a lighting assessment to identify key areas that need illumination, such as entryways, pathways, parking lots, and signage. 
• Use layered lighting techniques, combining floodlights, pathway lights, and motion-activated security lighting to ensure comprehensive coverage. 
• Position business security lighting at the right height and angle to minimize shadows while avoiding excessive glare. 

With Frontline Security’s Calgary exterior lighting design services, business owners can receive a customized lighting plan that ensures optimal placement for maximum visibility and safety. 

2. Using the Wrong Type of Lighting for Your Business Needs 

Not all lights are created equal, and using the wrong type of lighting can result in poor efficiency, inadequate brightness, and unnecessary costs. Some business owners install decorative lighting where security lighting is needed or overly bright floodlights that cause glare and discomfort for customers and employees. 

Common Lighting Mistakes Include: 

• Using residential-grade lighting that doesn’t provide enough durability for commercial use. 
• Installing harsh white LED lights that cause glare and reduce visibility. 
• Choosing inefficient lighting fixtures that drive up energy costs. 

How to Avoid It: 

• Opt for energy-efficient exterior lighting in Calgary, such as LED fixtures, which offer better brightness, lower energy consumption, and longer lifespan. 
• Use colour temperature strategically—warmer lights for inviting storefronts and cooler lights for security-focused areas like parking lots. 
• Invest in commercial-grade, weather-resistant lighting to withstand Calgary’s changing climate. 

Frontline Security’s professional commercial lighting solutions ensure businesses use the right lighting for their specific needs, balancing security, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. 

3. Failing to Plan for Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Costs 

A common mistake Calgary businesses make is focusing only on immediate installation costs without considering long-term energy consumption and maintenance expenses. Traditional lighting options can lead to higher electricity bills, frequent bulb replacements, and increased maintenance costs. 

How to Avoid It: 

• Choose LED and solar-powered lighting solutions to reduce energy costs without sacrificing brightness. 
• Install motion-activated security lighting that turns on only when needed, preventing unnecessary energy waste. 
• Work with professional lighting designers to create a setup that maximizes efficiency while minimizing costs. 

Switching to energy-efficient exterior lighting in Calgary can cut energy costs by up to 75% while reducing your business’s environmental impact. Frontline Security provides custom outdoor lighting services that help businesses lower operational expenses without compromising security. 

Light Up Your Business the Right Way 

Proper commercial exterior lighting installation is essential for security, safety, and business appeal. Avoiding poor placement, choosing the right lighting solutions, and planning for energy efficiency ensures that your business is well-lit, welcoming, and protected. 

For expert commercial lighting installation in Calgary, Frontline Security offers customized lighting solutions that enhance visibility, security, and long-term savings. Don’t let bad lighting choices put your business at risk—contact Frontline Security today to explore the best commercial exterior lighting solutions for your business! 

*Fire, Lighting & Electrical services are no longer offered by Frontline, contact us for any commercial / residential Security services.