Choosing particular exterior lighting fixtures depends on the purpose for which you plan to use the light. Just as you would select different indoor lights for your hallway, bedroom, or kitchen, you should also pick sconces or lamps that are crafted for the specific space and purpose.

For instance, if you're trying to keep unwanted guests out, motion-sensing outdoor security lights can scare off animals or human prowlers.

If you're trying to showcase the beauty of your property, you can't go wrong with outdoor wall lights, pathway lights, or wall sconces. Choose from traditional modern sconces in gold or chrome, or new designs that allow multiple colors based on the event.

Another point to consider is how many lights you use. Landscape lights should accentuate and highlight outdoor settings, not distract from them or drown them out. Having multiple light fixtures generally provides more effective illumination, as it is easier to disperse the light so no one fixture is too bright.

Whichever front yard lights or backyard lights you choose, make sure you are aware of any city regulations or homeowner's association guidelines that may restrict the type or brightness of the lighting options you have to choose from.

Of the four types of light bulbs you can use for the outdoors, LED lights are your best bet for a number of reasons:

• They don't heat up nearly as much as fluorescent, incandescent or halogen lights (which nearly entirely prevents the risk of a fire hazard for your house)
• They last far longer than all other bulbs
• They're more energy-efficient
• They're environmentally friendly
• They can serve as part of your outdoor decor because they often offer multiple colors

Like the other lighting options, LED lights have some cons: these bulbs are expensive, and their light is emitted in one direction, not everywhere, as is the case with incandescent lights.

That said, we consider these points a bit moot, considering that a) the long-term savings from energy efficiency will make the price worth it, and b) there is a wide range of lenses that can help diffuse light in more than one direction.

Just like dining room or bathroom lights, this varies greatly depending on what purpose the outdoor lights are serving.

For example, if the exterior lights are beautiful sconces meant merely as decoration to maximize aesthetic appeal and elegance, you could use anywhere from 50 to 200 lumens for adequate illumination.

However, if you're looking for security lighting or want to illuminate an area for work (e.g., garage lighting) solely using a wall light, you might need anywhere from 200 to 700 lumens. To give you an idea, flood lights are generally 700 lumens because they're meant to illuminate dark areas.

The other variable is personal preference. Some like more light in general, while others are more comfortable with the ambiance created by the soft glow of lower lighting. Often, wall lights themselves—as well as the texture they accent—are more appealing with a lower lighting setting. If you find yourself stuck deciding, try a smart-enabled dimmable option.