It’s the most wonderful part of the year. The Christmas tree, the presents, and all the loved ones in one place. There isn’t a holiday that brings so much joy to all the families around the world. When it comes to Christmas decorations, there are so many possibilities to decorate your house and make it a fairytale. The most important part of the decoration is, without a doubt, lights display. Only the lights can make an incredible Christmas atmosphere and make you feel the genuine spirit of Christmas. But before you start hanging them randomly outside your house, here are some of the best holiday outdoor light-hanging tips.
Plan the design of your holiday outdoor light-hanging scenery
It is never a good idea to start hanging the outdoor lights randomly, without an overall idea. So, start by planning your design. Think about the whole picture and make it a step-by-step project.
Chose a focal point of your holiday external light-hanging composition
Picking a focal point will help you avoid your house looking like someone blasted lights all over your lawn. So, if you have columns that frame your entryway, this is maybe the point where you should start with light-hanging.
Think about the surface of your holiday outdoor light-hanging decoration
Before you start hanging the lights, there are some check-ups you need to do. So, check your gutter thickness and shingle flexibility to determine how to best hang lights along the roofline.
Before you hang the lights, take the measures
Don’t rush in and simply start to hang outdoor lights before you take the proper measures. Start by measuring any straight line you want to adorn with lights. That will help you decide how many strands you need. Also, measure the distance between the lights and your power source. Don’t put yourself in a situation that you don’t have a way to turn on a beautiful light display.
Here are some popular spots for holiday outdoor light-hanging
- Along your rooflines inspection.
- Atop trees, bushes, and edges.
- Around door frames, windows, and other architectural features.
- Around pillars or deck railings.
- Near pathways and driveways.
- Inside planters and window boxes.
The next step of outdoor light-hanging is to prepare your lights
Like always, safety comes first. That’s why you should use UL approved extension cords specific for outdoor use. Also, look for lights rated for indoor/outdoor use. Before you use the lights, check the lights package to check the lighted length and how many strands to connect. Then, check your lights and remember that frayed or damaged cords are not recommended. Not only a faulty strand is a safety hazard, but it could ruin your design. Only after these check-ups, you can start picking light colors and other details.
The color of light
In case you don’t know, not all white lights are the same color. While LEDs typically have a bluish ting, incandescent bulbs are slightly orange. Only when you hang them side-by-side, you’ll realize they are mismatched. Also, outdoor lights can vary based on how old they are and the manufacturer. That’s why we always recommend buying new lights.
Read about the light types
As we already mentioned, there are many different light types and colors. The only thing you should make sure is to group the same light type. For example, you can use colored lights on your entryway and trees, and white lights on your bushes. Give it a final touch by putting white icicle lights along your roofline. There’s no doubt that LEDs will save you a lot of energy. Not to mention you will save some money and wouldn’t have to worry about them overheating. Also, icicle lights will look phenomenal on the eaves of your roof. Only make sure to cluster them together. If you stretch them too much, the look will be completely lost.
Caution
One extra tip regarding the lights. Always read the manufacturer’s guidelines concerning safety instructions, care, and maintenance.
Step-by-step outdoor light-hanging guide
Step 1- Test the lights
No matter if you’ve just bought new lights. You still need to test them- on the ground. Don’t try them out will you are on top of a ladder in the cold. Therefore, attach your light clips and make sure they are all in the same direction.
Step 2- Attach lights to shutters or shingles
The best way to attach lights to your gutters is to use an all-purpose light clip. It works with any type of light. Make sure the lights are all clipped in the same direction, whether pointing up or down. If you don’t have gutters, you can simply use the same clip to attach lights to your shingles.
Step 3- Attach lights to trees and railings
If you want to decorate your tree, try using a light-hanging pole. This is a great way to avoid getting on a ladder. Also, if you wish to attach lights to the railings of your deck or front porch, use deck clips.
Step 4- Set a timer
There’s no need to wake up at 4 a.m. to find that the Christmas lights have been on all night. The best way to solve this situation is to plug the lights into an outdoor timer. Some timers even have light sensors. They automatically turn on at dusk, leaving you relaxed during the night.
When installing outdoor lighting, be cautious
When installing your lights, use a good ladder, securing them with insulated holders. Just like professionals do it. Also, don’t install your lights on trees that come in contact with power lines. Finally, make sure to turn off the lights when you leave the house or go to bed at night.
Conclusion
Remember, while arranging outdoor light-hanging installations, always put safety first. Only then, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the Christmas holidays. We wish you a Merry Christmas and unforgettable light design.
