Adding outdoor wall sconces to your home can do more than just brighten your evenings, it can enhance curb appeal, boost safety, and transform your outdoor living space into a welcoming retreat. From illuminating your front porch to adding ambient lighting to your backyard, wall sconces are a versatile and stylish upgrade.
At Expert Electric, we know that while some DIY enthusiasts are eager to tackle installation, electrical projects are not always as simple as they seem. That’s why we’ve put together this detailed guide on how to install outdoor wall sconces, so you understand the process, the risks, and when to call in a professional.
Why Install Outdoor Wall Sconces?
Before we dive into the nuts and bolts of installation, let’s take a quick look at why outdoor wall sconces are a smart investment:
- Aesthetic Appeal – Sconces can frame your entryway, highlight architectural details, or add mood lighting to patios.
- Safety and Security – Proper outdoor lighting reduces trip hazards and deters intruders.
- Energy Efficiency – Modern LED sconces are stylish and cost-effective, lowering long-term utility bills.
- Increased Property Value – Upgraded exterior lighting enhances your home’s marketability.
Safety First: Preparing for Installation
Working with electricity always requires caution. Before attempting to install or replace outdoor wall sconces, keep these essential steps in mind:
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Turn Off the Power – Shut off the breaker that powers the outdoor light circuit. Never trust a light switch alone.
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Use Outdoor-Rated Fixtures – Moisture and weather are constant factors outside. Make sure your sconces are UL-rated for outdoor use.
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Have the Right Tools – You’ll need a screwdriver, voltage tester, wire strippers, caulk, and possibly a drill.
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Call a Professional for New Installs – If you’re adding a sconce where one didn’t exist before, you’ll need new wiring. That’s a job best left to licensed electricians like our team at Expert Electric.
Step-by-Step Guide: Installing Outdoor Wall Sconces
1. Remove the Old Fixture
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Confirm the power is off at the breaker using a voltage tester.
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Remove decorative screw covers and loosen the screws holding the old sconce.
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Gently pull the fixture away from the wall and disconnect the wires by untwisting the wire nuts.
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Cut away any caulking around the old fixture to ensure a clean removal.
2. Clean the Mounting Area
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Scrape away leftover caulk or sealant.
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Avoid damaging surrounding paint or siding unless you plan to repaint.
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This step ensures your new outdoor wall sconce will sit flush against the wall.
3. Install the New Mounting Plate
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Position the new plate provided with your sconce over the existing electrical box.
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Ensure it’s level and properly aligned.
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Secure it with screws and route the wires neatly through the openings.
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The mounting plate is crucial, it provides both stability and weather resistance.
4. Connect the Wires
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Match wires by color: black to black (hot), white to white (neutral), and green or bare copper to ground.
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Use new wire nuts and ensure connections are tight.
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If required, attach the ground wire to the mounting plate using the designated screw.
5. Secure the Fixture
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Attach the new outdoor wall sconce to the mounting plate.
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Double-check that it’s level before fully tightening screws.
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A snug fit keeps moisture and insects out of the fixture.
6. Seal the Edges
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Apply a thin bead of clear silicone caulk around the perimeter.
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This prevents water infiltration that can cause electrical hazards.
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Wipe away excess sealant with a paper towel for a clean finish.
7. Test Your New Sconce
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Restore power at the breaker.
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Switch on the light and admire your work.
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If the sconce doesn’t turn on, double-check wiring or call a licensed electrician for troubleshooting.
Pro Tips for Long-Lasting Outdoor Wall Sconces
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Choose LED Bulbs – They last longer, save energy, and come in various brightness levels.
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Consider Motion Sensors – Perfect for security lighting.
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Think About Style – From rustic lanterns to sleek modern sconces, choose fixtures that match your home’s architecture.
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Seasonal Maintenance – Wipe fixtures clean and check for cracks or loose wiring annually.
When to Call the Pros
Installing outdoor wall sconces may look simple, but hidden challenges can turn into hazards:
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No existing electrical box where you want to install a fixture.
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Old or damaged wiring.
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Moisture or water damage near the mounting site.
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Confusing breaker configurations.
If you encounter any of these, save yourself time and risk, Expert Electric is just a call away at 604-681-8338.
FAQs About Outdoor Wall Sconces
Q: Can I install outdoor wall sconces without an existing electrical box?
A: No. If a box isn’t present, you’ll need new wiring and a weather-rated electrical box. Hire a professional electrician to ensure code compliance and safety.
Q: Are outdoor wall sconces waterproof?
A: They are weather-resistant, not waterproof. That’s why proper sealing with caulk is essential during installation.
Q: How high should I install outdoor wall sconces?
A: Typically, sconces are installed 66–72 inches from the ground, depending on your door or wall height.
Q: Can I use indoor sconces outside if I cover them?
A: No. Only use fixtures rated specifically for outdoor use. Indoor sconces are not built to handle moisture or temperature changes.
Q: Do I need a permit to install outdoor lighting?
A: In some municipalities, yes, especially if new wiring is required. Check your local building codes or consult Expert Electric.
Final Thought
Adding outdoor wall sconces is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to elevate your home’s exterior. Whether you want a welcoming glow at the front door, added security lighting in the backyard, or decorative accents along a pathway, sconces combine style with practicality.
If you’re confident in your DIY skills and replacing an existing fixture, follow our guide step by step. But if you’re starting fresh, dealing with outdated wiring, or just want the peace of mind that comes with a licensed professional, the experts at Expert Electric are here to help.
Contact Expert Electric
Ready to upgrade your outdoor space with professionally installed outdoor wall sconces?
📞 Call Us: 604-681-8338
📧 Email Us: info@expertelectric.ca
Let us light the way, safely, stylishly, and professionally.
