How to Make an Outdoor Black Light
Black lights are special UV lighting elements that cause certain surfaces and colors to glow with an eerie hue in the dark. Several occasions for black light occur outdoors such as Halloween displays, black light mini golf courses and even parties or events. To create a permanent black light fixture for outdoors, it is necessary to combine the elements of black light with weatherproof outdoor fixtures.
Things You'll Need
- Flourescent light fixture, either can or shop light type
- Flourescent UV bulbs
- Silicone caulk
- Wood board sections in corresponding size to light fixtures
- 1 1/2-inch galvanized screws
- Cordless screw gun
- Black paint
- Loop hooks or I-hooks
Instructions
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Fixtures
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Select the size and type of light fixture you need. If you are creating a permanent light, keep in mind it will need to withstand any seasonal changes that are in your climate. If this is for temporary use, create the fixture for the specific type of weather it will encounter while in use. Size and amount of light needed are also considerations. A smaller black light fixture will light less square footage than a large one.
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Purchase a shop light or can type fixture that is fully enclosed with the electrical connection housed inside the fixture. Look for one with a weatherproof covering designed for outdoor use. Can lights often come with a stake and separate glass or Plexiglas lids that can be used to weatherproof the fixture. Shop light type fluorescent fixtures have outdoor weatherproof types, and are also available with lids and shields.
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Check the rating on the fixture to be sure it is designed for outdoor use and that there are no warnings on the label that say "indoor use only." Some fixtures look heavy duty or enclosed, but may have ventilation holes or other features that limit them to indoor use.
Lights and Assembly
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Choose the light that corresponds to your fixture. Black light bulbs most commonly come in flood, LED pin spot lights and fluorescent tubes. For the cost and convenience factor, the fluorescent tubes generally give the most effect for the price. Standard 4-foot fluorescent tubes can throw off a heavy amount of UV light and keep a deeply effective glow over a wide area. If you need a large space lit with black light, this choice may be suitable.
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Assemble the fixture and insert the corresponding black light bulbs.
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Turn on the fixture, and test it under dark conditions. Be sure the light produced is effective and covers the area you need lit.
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Attach the lids or covers to the fixtures once you have tested the lights, and unplug the fixture.
Weatherproofing
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Seal the edges of the glass front, lid or Plexiglas cover with silicone caulking or another waterproof outdoor rated caulk. If the fixture itself is to be painted black to camouflage it, be sure to purchase black caulk, as silicone caulk is not paintable.
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Build a box to house the fixture for permanent light displays. Measure the boards to create a box that is about 2 to 3 inches larger than the fixture on all sides. Screw the pieces together with the galvanized screws, and paint the entire box black.
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Screw in the hooks on the inside of the box where your fixture will hang, or attach it to the inside of the box with the hardware that came with the fixture in the case of mountable fixtures.
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Mount the fixture inside the box, making sure it is secure and will withstand the weather conditions. Plug the light in and re-test it to be sure it's working. Mount your fixture box where it's needed, and connect it to your outdoor electrical source.
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