Find wet-rated outdoor wall lighting for entries, patios, and architectural accent applications.
Featured Outdoor Sconce Brands
Northeast Lantern
Handcrafted in Maine using traditional techniques, Northeast Lantern exterior sconces feature solid brass and copper construction. Colonial onion lights, Cape Cod lanterns, and farmhouse styles withstand coastal conditions while developing beautiful natural patinas.
Brass Traditions
Specialty brass outdoor wall lights crafted for longevity in demanding exterior environments. Solid brass construction delivers classic aesthetics with superior corrosion resistance for traditional homes.
Arroyo Craftsman
Handmade Arts & Crafts outdoor sconces featuring art glass and mica shades in the Craftsman tradition. These exterior wall lights bring warm amber illumination to bungalows and Craftsman entries.
Hubbardton Forge
Hand-forged in Vermont since 1974, Hubbardton Forge outdoor wall sconces feature wrought iron construction with organic curves. Weather-resistant finishes suit both traditional and contemporary architecture.
George Kovacs
Modern outdoor wall lights with clean lines and LED technology. Architectural forms in matte black, bronze, and brushed nickel suit contemporary homes and minimalist landscapes.
Additional Brands
Visual Comfort, Generation Lighting, Currey & Company, Minka Lavery, Great Outdoors, Quoizel, Golden Lighting, H.A. Framburg, Sonneman, and Craftmade
Outdoor Sconce Styles
Lantern Wall Sconces
Classic lantern exterior sconces in solid brass, copper, and bronze. Clear, seeded, and water glass panels complement colonial, Georgian, and traditional home exteriors. Northeast Lantern and Brass Traditions deliver authentic period character.
Modern Outdoor Wall Lights
Contemporary exterior sconces with geometric forms, integrated LED, and architectural precision. George Kovacs and Sonneman offer clean-lined designs in matte black and metallic finishes for modern homes.
Craftsman Outdoor Sconces
Arts & Crafts exterior wall lights with geometric metalwork and art glass shades. Arroyo Craftsman's handmade fixtures deliver authentic period character for bungalow porches and Craftsman entries.
Small Outdoor Sconces
Compact exterior sconces suit narrow wall spaces, accent applications, and architectural highlighting. These scaled-down fixtures provide functional illumination without overwhelming smaller entry areas.
Applications
Porch and Entry Wall Lights
Flank front doors with matched outdoor sconces mounted 66-72 inches from ground level. Choose fixtures approximately 1/4 to 1/3 door height for proper proportion. Pair with outdoor ceiling flush mount fixtures for complete entry illumination.
Garage Wall Lighting
Position exterior sconces beside garage doors for security and architectural accent. LED outdoor wall lights provide bright illumination with energy efficiency for extended operation.
Patio and Outdoor Living
Wall-mounted outdoor sconces illuminate patios, outdoor kitchens, and covered living areas. Coordinate with outdoor hanging light fixtures and pendants for layered outdoor lighting.
Pathway and Landscape Accent
Exterior sconces mounted on columns, fences, and garden walls provide pathway illumination and landscape accent. Combine with outdoor post and column mount fixtures and path lights for comprehensive landscape lighting.
Size and Placement Guide
Application
Recommended Height
Size Guide
Entry doors
66-72" from ground
1/4 to 1/3 door height
Garage doors
66-72" from ground
Proportional to door width
Patio walls
Eye level (60-66")
12-18" fixtures typical
Accent lighting
Variable
Small outdoor sconces (8-12")
Spacing: When using paired sconces, position 8-10 feet apart or flanking doorways at equal distances from the frame.
Weather Ratings
Wet-Rated Fixtures
All outdoor wall sconces feature UL wet location ratings for direct exposure to rain, snow, and harsh weather conditions. Solid brass and copper options from Northeast Lantern and Brass Traditions excel in coastal environments.
Damp-Rated Fixtures
Suitable for covered porches and protected areas where direct water contact won't occur but humidity exposure exists.
Solid brass: Premium corrosion resistance, natural patina development
Solid copper: Superior coastal durability, distinctive aging
Cast aluminum: Lightweight with powder-coat protection
Wrought iron: Artisan character with weather-resistant finishes
Technical Features
LED compatible: E26 base accepts standard LED bulbs
Integrated LED options: 25,000-50,000 hour lifespans
Dimmable: Compatible with outdoor-rated dimmers
Motion sensor options: Select models include built-in sensors
Photocell controls: Dusk-to-dawn automation available
Dark sky compliant: Downward-directed options reduce light pollution
Universal mounting: Hardware included for wood, vinyl, brick, and stucco
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between outdoor wall lights and exterior sconces?
These terms are interchangeable. Outdoor wall lights and exterior sconces both refer to wall-mounted fixtures designed for outdoor use with appropriate weather ratings.
What size outdoor sconce do I need?
For entry doors, choose sconces 1/4 to 1/3 your door height. A standard 80-inch door suits 20-27 inch fixtures. Small outdoor sconces (8-12 inches) work for accent applications.
Are these fixtures suitable for coastal environments?
Yes. Solid brass and copper outdoor sconces from Northeast Lantern and Brass Traditions excel in salt air conditions. These materials resist corrosion while developing attractive patinas.
Can I install outdoor sconces on brick or stucco?
Yes. All fixtures include universal mounting hardware. Professional installation is recommended for masonry applications requiring anchor drilling.
What's the typical LED lifespan for outdoor wall lights?
Integrated LED modules last 25,000-50,000 hours—equivalent to 10-20 years of normal residential use depending on daily operation hours.
