You've found the outdoor light of your dreams, but when you look at the box, you're bombarded with acronyms and numbers: IP65, 800lm, 3000K... 🤔 Don't panic! These terms are not here to complicate your life, but rather to help you choose the product that's perfectly suited to your needs.

This simple guide will turn that jargon into plain language so you can buy your lighting fixtures with confidence.

IP: The Protection Index, your guarantee of durability

The clue IP (Protection Index) is arguably the most important criterion for an outdoor light fixture. It indicates its resistance to solid elements (such as dust) and liquids (such as rain). It's its robustness identity card!

The IP is always followed by two numbers:

• The first digit (0 to 6): It is protection against the solids. Simply put, a number 4 or higher means that insects will not be able to get in. A 6 means that the light fixture is completely dustproof.

• The second digit (0 to 8): It is the protection against water. This is the most crucial for the exterior.

Here are some simple guidelines to help you avoid making mistakes:

• 💧 IP44: This is the bare minimum for outdoor use. It is protected against splashing water from all directions. Ideal for: a wall light under an entrance porch, awning or covered terrace.

• 💦 IP65: It is protected against water jets (such as a sprinkler or heavy rain). It is the most versatile and secure choice. Ideal for: a wall exposed to the elements, a garden stake.

• 🌊 IP67/IP68: This is the ultimate in waterproofing. It can be submerged temporarily (IP67) or permanently (IP68). Ideal for: illuminate the surroundings of a swimming pool, the interior of a basin or a fountain.

Lumens (lm): the true measure of brightness

Forget Watts! In the past, we looked at Watts to determine how bright a light bulb was. But with ultra-efficient LEDs, that's no longer relevant. The true measure of amount of light issued is the Lumen (lm).

The more lumens, the brighter. It's as simple as that!

Here are some guidelines for your projects:

• Ambiance & Marking (100-300 lm): To create a soft atmosphere or mark a path without dazzling.

• Aisles & Stairs (300-500 lm): For functional lighting that makes travel safer.

• Terrace & Dining Area (400-800 lm): To see what's on your plate and enjoy the evening.

• Entrance door & Security (> 800 lm): For powerful lighting that clearly illuminates an area and deters intruders.

Kelvins (K): the secret to a successful atmosphere

There color temperature, measured in Kelvins (K), defines the "color" of white light. This is what will create the entire atmosphere of your space.

Think about daylight: the sun at sunrise is very warm and orange, while at midday its light is whiter and brighter. It's the same principle.

• Warm White (2200K - 3000K): It's the light warm and friendly par excellence. It tends towards yellow-orange, like the glow of a candle or a sunset.

  • Perfect for: Relaxation areas, terraces, pergolas, garden seating areas. It's the light of relaxation.

• Neutral White (3500K - 4500K): It's a light balanced and modern, close to natural light. It does not distort colors and offers excellent visibility.

  • Perfect for: Entrances, facades, walkways. It's an excellent compromise between ambiance and functionality.

• Cool White (5000K and above): It's a light very bright and blueIt is often perceived as aggressive and "clinical" in a relaxed context.

  • To be reserved for: Very powerful security lighting or a work area like a garage. Avoid for living spaces.

In summary

To make the right choice, simply remember:

• IP: There Sustainability against the weather.

• Lumens: There Power of lighting.

• Kelvins: L'Atmosphere and the color of light.

With these three ideas in mind, you are now ready to browse our catalog and choose the lighting that will transform your exterior into an exceptional living space, day and night!