Outdoor lighting can be a true game-changer for your backyard, deck, or patio—improving safety, highlighting your landscape, and adding a touch of magic to those late summer nights. At The Ultimate Deck Shop, we know that picking the right lights isn’t just about brightness; it’s about the feeling you want to create, the tasks you want to accomplish, and the lasting value you expect. Among our most-recommended, in-lite's Big Scope spotlight and Fusion 60 ground light stand out for versatility, design, and long-term satisfaction. Here’s our deep-dive on how to choose, combine, and get the best from both.
Understanding the Lighting Roles: Spotlight vs. Subtle Glow
We’re big believers in layered lighting. A well-designed deck shouldn’t be lit by just one fixture type. The in-lite Big Scope and Fusion 60 each bring something distinctive:
- Big Scope: A powerful outdoor spotlight. This fixture excels at accentuating trees, striking architectural features, or a prized sculpture—delivering a wide, focused beam for dramatic effect.
- Fusion 60: A subtle, recessed ground or deck light designed to illuminate surfaces underfoot. Perfect for softly outlining paths, stairs, or deck edges, creating both safety and ambiance.
Side-by-Side: Technical Overview
| Feature | in-lite Big Scope | in-lite Fusion 60 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Spotlight for accent lighting (vertical) | Recessed light for paths, stairs, deck boards |
| Power | 12V (LED) / 5W | 12V (LED) / 3W |
| Light Effect | Focused, ambient wide beam for trees/features | Diffuse, soft glow on the ground/surfaces |
| Installation | Ground stake or mounting plate for hard surfaces | 60mm (2.36") cutout in deck board or hardscape |
| Durability | Weatherproof (outdoor-rated) | Made for full burial or flush-integration |
| Colour Temp. | Warm white (approx. 3100K) | Warm white (approx. 3100K) |
| Lifespan | Long-life LED (25,000 hours+ typical) | Long-life LED (25,000 hours+ typical) |
Where & How to Use Each Light: Practical Project Guidance
in-lite Big Scope: Make Your Trees and Features Pop
This spotlight loves vertical drama. It’s ideal if you want to:
- Highlight mature trees or shrubs just off your deck or patio.
- Feature a water fountain or sculpture, instantly drawing eyes to your yard’s focal point.
- Illuminate architectural features on your home or a statement fence panel.
Installation is a breeze for both DIYers and pros:
- Use the included ground stake for garden beds, planters, or soft soil.
- For pavers, wood decks, or concrete, a base plate makes mounting secure and stable.
- We suggest installing 2-3 meters from the object and angling upward at about 30–45 degrees. This avoids harsh shadows and covers more surface.
in-lite Fusion 60: Walkway and Deck Safety & Mood
This is our go-to for seamlessly integrating light into traffic areas or adding a soft wash of light along deck surfaces. Consider Fusion 60 if you want to:
- Line stairs for safe nighttime navigation.
- Create edging along deck boards, highlighting layout and space separation.
- Light up hardscape walkways or driveway borders—adds both curb appeal and guidance.
Key advantages for DIYers:
- Simple, flush-mounted design avoids tripping hazards.
- Requires only a 60mm diameter cutout (hole saw, anyone!).
- All wiring is compatible with in-lite’s plug & play 12V systems.
Mix and Match: Combining for Custom Results
Here’s how we (and many of our customers) use both for a layered, professional look:
- Fusion 60 for primary paths & stairs: Space about every 1.5 to 2 meters for smooth, continuous lighting. No more mystery steps or stubbed toes!
- Big Scope for "reveal" moments: Aim them to light up a nearby weeping birch, an art piece, or a raised planter—bringing life to the backdrop of your deck.
- Strategic combinations: For multilevel decks, use Fusion 60 along steps and deck perimeter, then position Big Scope a bit further out in the yard for dramatic background illumination. This draws people’s eyes out into your landscape and makes the whole space feel larger and more inviting.
Installation Tips: Getting Hands-On
For the Big Scope Spotlight
- If you’re working with flowerbeds or lawns, simply push the ground stake in. Very little soil disturbance.
- For decks or patios, invest in the mounting base plate.
- Use a riser if you want to elevate the light above tall plants or if objects tend to block the beam. Adjusting the angle is simple.
For the Fusion 60
- Use a quality hole saw (60mm) for a snug, professional fit in composite or wood deck boards.
- Connect using in-lite’s EASY-LOCK system—waterproof and reliable.
- Plan your wiring route in advance, leaving room for transformer connections and the possibility of adding more lights later.
Pro tip:
Add 20% extra transformer capacity in your plan; you’ll thank us next year when you expand your lighting system!
Energy Efficiency & Maintenance: Built for Canadian Climates
- Both fixtures run on efficient LED technology. Expect 25,000+ hours of performance; perfect for decks used all year round.
- Low heat, low voltage: Ideal for wood/composite and kid- and pet-friendly zones.
- Weather resistant: Both are designed for snow, rain, and the wild swings of Canadian weather.
- Minimal upkeep: A quick wipe to clear dust or pollen is usually all that’s needed. Make spring cleaning a routine, and your lights will look like new.
Style & Aesthetic: What’s the Vibe?
While both lights offer a warm white color (about 3100K), they deliver completely different moods:
- Big Scope: Bold and architectural; sharp focal points, ideal for nighttime drama.
- Fusion 60: Understated, refined, and welcoming; a beautiful perimeter outline that blends seamlessly into decks and paths by day.
For busy family spaces or hosting evenings, this combination gives both wow-factor and comfort—your deck feels like the after-dark extension of your living room.
Common Questions We Hear at TUDS
- Will these work on composite decks? Absolutely. Both are designed with universal compatibility in mind; just ensure you follow cutting guidelines for composite materials and use the recommended mounting accessories.
- Are they safe in Canadian winters? Yes. Both Big Scope and Fusion 60 are weatherproof for harsh conditions and rated for Canadian winters (including freeze-thaw cycles).
- Can I add more lights later? Definitely—just size your transformer with headroom, and adding new in-lite fixtures is plug-and-play thanks to their easy wiring system.
When to Choose One (or Both)
- If your goal is drama and vertical accents: Start with the Big Scope.
- If you want safe, inviting walkways: Integrate Fusion 60 into your deck surfaces.
- If you’re after a true backyard oasis: Use both in layers. Trust us—friends and family will notice.
Final Thoughts: Lighting That Lasts & Lifts Every Space
Choosing the right lighting is about more than illumination. At The Ultimate Deck Shop, we help customers—not just sell products—because we’ve seen how thoughtful lighting can totally transform an outdoor living area. The in-lite Big Scope and Fusion 60 are among our top picks not just for technical quality, but for the way they help you use your deck day and night, in all seasons.
If you need help designing a lighting plan for your own deck or yard, connect with us online, in Regina or Saskatoon, or browse tuds.ca for inspiration and materials. Your project, your way—with expert guidance, every step of the way.
