A No-Nonsense Breakdown from Bob at TLC
“Hey Bob, I’ve got a regular deck out back. What’s it cost to light it up?”
If I had a dollar for every time I heard that in Crofton or anywhere in Anne Arundel County… well, I’d have a lot of dollars. And I get it — homeowners want to enjoy their deck more in the evenings, and outdoor lighting makes a huge difference. But most folks just don’t know what to expect when it comes to cost.
So let me walk you through it like I would if we were chatting out in your backyard, standing by your deck, coffee in hand.
Why Deck Lighting Even Matters
Let’s start with the obvious — why even bother?
If you’re asking about cost, you’re probably already picturing what it’ll look like when it’s done: that soft glow, the way your steps are safely lit, the cozy feel when you sit outside with a drink or look out your kitchen window at night.
Here’s what great deck lighting does for you:
- Extends your evenings — No more heading inside just because the sun went down
- Adds safety — Especially around steps, changes in elevation, or pets walking at night
- Boosts curb appeal and resale value
- Creates ambiance — Your backyard just feels better
- Shows off your deck investment — You paid for that deck — now let it shine
The Quick Answer: What’s It Going to Cost?
Here’s the straight answer: for a typical deck in Crofton, MD — think 12×16 or so, maybe a set of stairs, a railing or two — you’re probably looking at a range of $1,800 to $3,200 for professionally installed deck lighting.
Now, that’s a range. Let me break it down based on what I usually ask a homeowner during a walkthrough.
The Conversation I Have All the Time
You:
“Hey Bob, I’ve got a normal deck here in Crofton.”
Me:
“Alright — do you have steps?”
You:
“Yeah, we’ve got a few steps.”
Me:
“Okay, good to know. What about railing?”
You:
“Oh yeah — we’ve got railing around most of it.”
Perfect. Right there, I already know we’re probably talking 5 to 8 light fixtures:
- A couple on the posts or railings
- A few on the steps
- Maybe one or two around the base or the entrance
You’re also going to need:
- A transformer to safely power the system (deck lights run low voltage)
- A timer or photocell so the lights know when to turn on and off
Now we’re into the ballpark of that $1,800–$3,200 range.
The 5 Things That Affect the Cost of Your Deck Lighting
Not every project is the same — here’s what changes the price:
Deck Size and Layout
Bigger deck = more lights.
Multiple levels? Corners? Stairs? Those all factor in.
Type of Fixtures
There’s a wide range of options:
- Recessed step lights
- Post cap lights
- Under-rail strip lighting
- Accent lighting for plants or features nearby
Fixtures can range from $20 to $200 each depending on style, material, and brand.
Wiring & Power Access
Do you already have an outdoor outlet?
Is the electrical panel nearby or do we need to trench or run conduit?
Wired systems are more reliable long-term but take more labor upfront.
Solar vs. Wired
Solar lights are cheaper upfront and easier to install — but:
- Not as bright
- Less reliable in winter months
- Don’t last as long
Wired systems cost more, but they work every night, no matter the weather.
Smart Features
Want lights that change color or sync with your smartphone?
Want to dim them remotely or connect them to your smart home system?
We can do it — but those upgrades add to the final price.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Can You Do It Yourself?
Sure — there are kits out there. You might find something at Home Depot or online for $300–$600. But here’s what I’ve seen happen:
- They don’t last through the first winter
- Wiring’s exposed or messy
- Lights aren’t bright enough
- You end up calling someone like us anyway a year later
What You Get With a Pro Like TLC
We handle it all:
- Design — where the lights go, how to angle them, how they’ll look from the house
- Electrical work — safe, clean, up to code
- Fixture selection — we know what lasts and looks good
- Post-install care — we’re here if something goes wrong
It’s not just lighting — it’s a full experience upgrade.
Real-Life Example: A Crofton Deck for a Young Family
A family in Crofton called us this spring. They had a medium-sized deck with stairs going down to a play area in the yard. The parents wanted the deck lit for safety — but also to enjoy some wine out there once the kids were in bed.
We installed:
- 2 recessed lights in the steps
- 3 post cap lights
- A soft floodlight angled into the yard
- A low-voltage transformer
- A timer with dusk-to-dawn automation
The whole thing came in just under $2,400. They loved it. Said it changed how they used the space. No more tripping down the stairs at night — and now they want to stay outside longer.
Why Deck Lighting Is One of the Best Outdoor Investments
Here’s the thing: you might spend $1,800–$3,000 — but you’ll use your deck more every single night.
- Want to host a barbecue? Deck lighting makes it magical.
- Got pets? It keeps the space safer.
- Hosting a party? The ambiance goes way up.
- Selling your house? Deck lighting shows up in photos and adds appeal.
And here’s something not everyone thinks about: even when you’re not outside, the view from your kitchen window is totally different. Your backyard isn’t just a black void — it’s glowing, inviting, beautiful.
How to Get an Exact Quote (With Zero Pressure)
You don’t have to guess. We offer free consultations.
We will:
- Walk your deck with you
- Look at your railing, steps, layout
- Talk about how you use the space
- Show fixture options
- Give you an honest, written estimate — no pressure, no obligation
And if you decide to move forward, we handle everything.
Final Thoughts From Bob
Look — I love lighting. I’ve seen what it does for families in Crofton and all across Anne Arundel County. It’s not about selling lights. It’s about helping people enjoy their homes more.
If you’re wondering what it costs, I hope this article helped clear it up.
And if you’re ready to see what it would take for your deck, let’s talk. You’ve got nothing to lose — and a whole new evening experience to gain.
Ready to Get a Free Deck Lighting Quote?
👉 Contact TLC for a Free Design Consultation