5 min read · Cost
Re-side projects involve disturbing exterior wall surfaces; exterior lighting is the natural addition or upgrade during this scope. Here's the framework.
Why combine lighting with re-side
Wall penetrations for lighting fixtures get done once cleanly during re-side rather than twice over time. Electrical conduit runs can be hidden in the wall during re-side. Lighting locations can be relocated easily when cladding is off. Flashing integration around lighting fixtures is cleaner during re-side.
Common lighting upgrades during re-side
Front entry lighting upgrade (new fixtures, possibly relocated). Pathway and accent lighting addition. Security lighting (motion sensors, dusk-to-dawn). Architectural accent lighting (uplighting on accent walls, soffit lighting). Garage and side-of-house lighting refresh.
Electrical scope and coordination
Standard outlets and circuits are existing scope; new fixture installation reuses them. Adding new fixtures may require new electrical circuits — that's electrician scope coordinated with us. Smart-home lighting (smart switches, app controls) typically scoped with electrician.
Wiring through Hardie cladding
Conduit penetrations through Hardie cladding must be properly flashed and sealed. Generic caulk around conduit doesn't work; specific weatherproof penetration detail required. Each fixture mounting penetration similar.
Cost framework for lighting integration
Adding 4-6 standard exterior fixtures during re-side: typically $1,500-$3,500 incremental (fixtures, electrician labor, integration). Premium architectural lighting (uplighting, sconce design): $3,000-$8,000+. Smart-home lighting upgrade: variable per system. Modest add-on relative to re-side total.
Lighting fixture choice during planning
Choose fixtures during pre-construction so they're available at install time. Style consistent with architectural intent (modern fixtures on modern homes; traditional on craftsman). Quality fixtures cost modestly more upfront and last substantially longer.
Where to add lighting that wasn't there before
Soffit lighting (downlight from eaves). Accent walls (uplighting or wall-wash). Pathway from driveway to entry. Garage lighting. Side-yard or backyard transition lighting. Each adds usability without overwhelming the exterior.
Sierra Siding's role with lighting
We coordinate timing with your electrician. We don't do electrical work ourselves. The integration scope (penetrations, flashing) is part of our work; the electrical scope is your electrician's. We work as a team on combined projects.
Exterior lighting integration cost framework
| Lighting scope | Incremental cost |
|---|---|
| 4-6 standard fixture upgrade | $1,500-$3,500 |
| Premium architectural lighting | $3,000-$8,000+ |
| Smart-home lighting integration | Variable per system |
| Soffit and accent lighting design | $2,500-$6,500 |
Key takeaways
- Re-side is natural time for lighting upgrade
- Wall penetrations and flashing integration cleaner during scope
- Modest cost add-on relative to re-side
- Coordinate with electrician on electrical scope
FAQ
Quick Answers
No — electrical is licensed-electrician scope; we coordinate timing.
Standard exterior lighting doesn't typically affect insurance; smart-home additions can sometimes.
Yes — energy efficient, long-life, increasingly cost-competitive with traditional fixtures.
Sources
Authoritative references
- Contractors State License Board (CSLB) — verify a California contractor
- ENERGY STAR — Residential Windows, Doors & Skylights
External links to government, code, and manufacturer sources. Sierra Siding is not affiliated with these organizations; references are provided for verification.