Key takeaways
- Grazing shows texture from close up
- Washing gives an even glow from a distance
- Match the technique to the surface
- Test on your own wall at night
Grazing
A grazing fixture sits only inches from the wall and sends light skimming across it. Every bump, joint and ridge casts a small shadow, so rough stone, brick and board-and-batten look dramatic and textured.
It exaggerates flaws, so it suits textured surfaces and not smooth plaster.
Washing
A wash fixture sits farther from the wall and spreads light evenly across it. It makes walls look taller and calmer, and gives a smooth glow without strong shadows. It suits smoother surfaces and larger areas.
Wide-beam fixtures spaced so the pools overlap give the most even wash.
Which to choose
Rough or deeply textured walls usually look best grazed. Smooth walls look best washed. Some designs use both on different parts of the house.
A night demonstration shows exactly how your wall reacts.
Related services
Quick answers
Can I graze a stucco wall?
Smooth stucco usually looks better washed. Heavily textured stucco can be grazed, but test it first.
Will either one bother neighbors?
Not when fixtures are shielded and aimed at your walls. We check it at night.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free estimate or call 615-431-3789.