Wall Pack vs Barn Light: Choosing Exterior Building Lights

Wall packs and barn lights both mount on building exteriors, but they have different aesthetics, distribution patterns, and ideal applications.

Quick Comparison

When to Choose Wall Packs

Wall packs are the standard for commercial building perimeters:

• Building security: Parking areas, loading docks, alleyways
• Perimeter lighting: Continuous wall-mounted coverage
• Stairwell entrances: Fire exits and emergency egress
• Utility areas: Dumpster enclosures, mechanical rooms
• Budget projects: More coverage per dollar

Auvolar wall packs range from the 20W AN-WSN mini pack ($38) to the 120W WP Series ($99), covering every commercial exterior application.

When to Choose Barn Lights

Barn lights add character while providing functional illumination:

• Storefronts: Retail entrances, restaurants, boutiques
• Building signage: Illuminate business names and logos
• Architectural accent: Historic buildings, hospitality venues
• Loading doors: Decorative alternative to wall packs
• Residential-adjacent commercial: Where aesthetics matter

Auvolar's AN-BL Barn Light (70W, $114) combines decorative gooseneck styling with commercial-grade performance.

Light Distribution Differences

Wall packs throw light forward and down in a wide pattern, covering 400-3,000 sq ft depending on wattage and mounting height. Ideal for uniform perimeter coverage. Barn lights focus light in a tighter cone directly below the fixture. Coverage is 100-400 sq ft per fixture. Better for highlighting specific areas.

Making the Decision

Ask yourself:

Is aesthetics important? → Barn light

Need maximum coverage? → Wall pack

Dark Sky requirement? → Either (choose full cutoff models)

Budget priority? → Wall pack (3× more coverage per dollar)

Illuminating signage? → Barn light

Building perimeter security? → Wall pack

Many commercial properties use both: wall packs on the back and sides, barn lights on the front facade. This provides security everywhere while enhancing curb appeal at the entrance.