The standard recommendation is to place the outdoor wall sconce so the center of the fixture is about 66 inches (5.5 feet) above the ground. For front doors, ensure the fixture is above eye level to prevent glare.

For covered areas like a porch or awning, a damp rating is usually sufficient. For fully exposed areas like an open garage wall or fence post, you must choose a wet location rated exterior wall light fixture for safety and durability.

When flanking a doorway, each outdoor wall sconce should be placed approximately one-quarter of the door's height away from the door frame. The wider the door, the further apart they should be.

The outdoor wall light should generally be between one-quarter and one-third the height of your front door. Matching the scale is key to boosting curb appeal.

The terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, an outdoor wall sconce refers to a decorative fixture that mounts to the wall and directs light upward or downward, while outdoor wall lights is a broader term encompassing all wall-mounted exterior wall light fixtures.