Why is stainless steel a good choice for a floor lamp?
An outdoor floor lamp has more to contend with than a façade lamp. It stands low to the ground, where water can splash up and the ground can remain wet after a shower. In winter, there is also road salt to contend with, while coastal locations are exposed to salty sea air. Stainless steel is more resistant to these conditions than painted metal, where damage to the paint layer can eventually lead to rust.
When does it really pay off?
Stainless steel is particularly useful near the coast, along a driveway where salt is spread in winter, and in places that stay damp, such as among dense planting or on a shady north-facing side. A painted model is perfectly suitable if the lamp stands on a dry, sheltered patio. For a garden path where you want the lighting to last for years, stainless steel is a practical choice.
Look
Stainless steel has a sleek, silver-grey look that suits modern architecture and gardens with clean lines. In a green border, the material stands out less than you might think because it reflects its surroundings. You can also combine it with stainless steel wall lights on the façade for a cohesive look.
What to look for
With stainless steel too, pay attention to the stated protection rating (IP rating): the material tells you something about corrosion resistance, while the IP rating indicates how well the electronics inside are protected. Lay cables that run underground using an underground power cable, and have the connection carried out by a professional.
