How to Hang Outdoor String Lights - Outdoor Cabinets

Hanging outdoor string lights can instantly transform any outdoor space into a gorgeous, inviting area that can be used day or night. With the right lighting, you can create a magical ambiance in your backyard, patio, or garden. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know to properly hang outdoor string lights.

Choosing the Right Outdoor String Lights

When deciding which type of outdoor string lights to purchase, there are a few key factors to consider:

Bulb Type

Incandescent bulbs – These traditional bulbs are inexpensive and provide a warm, cozy glow. However, they burn out quickly.
LED bulbs – LEDs last much longer than incandescent bulbs and are more energy-efficient. They are available in both warm and cool light shades.
Clear vs. frosted bulbs – Clear bulbs shine brighter, while frosted bulbs diffuse the light more evenly.

Light Color

Warm white – Emits a soft, yellowish glow, perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere.
Cool white – Gives off a bright, bluish-white light, ideal for illuminating large areas.
Multicolor – Different color options allow you to customize the mood. Great for parties and holidays.

Length

Purchase lights long enough to avoid gaps but avoid excess cord. Measure the space before buying.
For large areas, connect multiple strands together.

Spacing

Bulbs spaced closer together emit more light in a concentrated area.
For wider and larger spaces, choose lights with bulbs spaced farther apart to distribute light more evenly.
Use a combination of different light densities for an interesting look.

Weatherproofing

Ensure the lights are rated for outdoor use and are properly weatherproofed to withstand the elements.
Look for lights labeled outdoor, waterproof, or weatherproof.

Extra Features

Timers – Automatically turn lights on and off at set times. Helpful forconsistency.
Smart options – Connect to phone apps for voice or smart home control.
Solar power – Absorb sunlight during the day to power the bulbs at night. No electrical outlet required.

Choosing the Right Location

Picking the optimal spot is key to maximizing both aesthetics and practicality:

Highlight focal points – Draw attention to gardens, landscapes, or architectural features.
Define spaces – Outline seating areas, pools, or fences to designate functional spaces.
Illuminate dark areas– Brighten up shadowed nooks and crannies such as under trees or porches.
Enhance ambiance – Set the mood with soft lighting along pathways, entryways, or patios.
Safety – Improve visibility on steps, pathways, or uneven terrain. Prevent tripping hazards.
Accessibility – Ensure the location allows access to a nearby electrical outlet or solar charging area.

Planning the Layout

Take measurements and sketch out a lighting plan to determine the supplies needed and visualize the final layout:

Map electrical outlets – Note where you can connect lights and any extension cords required.
Measure the space – Calculate linear footage to buy adequate light strand lengths.
Sketch a layout – Indicate light placement and how strands will be positioned.
Account for obstructions – Consider trees, plants, furnishings, or anything that may block light.
Plan for focal points – Spotlight key structures, plants, or décor with strategic placement.
Allow for movement – Ensure the lights won’t obstruct pathways or seating areas.

Securing the Lights

Proper hanging techniques will keep the lights securely in place:

Mounting Options

Nails or screws – Hammer nails or screws into wood surfaces like rafters, eaves, fences, or posts.
Plastic clip hooks – Clip these over gutters, rooflines, or rails up to 3/4 inch thick.
Magnetic clips – Adhere magnetically to steel surfaces like rain gutters or sheds.
Adhesive clips – Stick directly to smooth surfaces like glass, brick, stucco, or vinyl siding.
Ties – Wrap around tree branches or porch columns and knot for securing.

Tips for Securing

Place clips or hooks every 12-24 inches along the strand. Closer for windy areas.
Ensure mounting surfaces are clean and dry before adhering clips.
Insert lights snugly into all clips, hooks, or ties to prevent sagging.
Run a separate low-voltage wire if impossible to mount lights properly in a certain area.
Use tie-downs or stakes to secure along the ground if needed.

Running and Connecting the Wires

Follow these guidelines for safely running and connecting the wiring:

Keep wires away from heavy foot traffic to avoid tripping hazard or damage.
Neatly run wires vertically down corners rather than diagonally across walls for a clean look.
Use plastic raceways to cover wires running down walls. Match the trim color for discreetness.
Use extension cords as needed to reach faraway outlets. Outdoor-rated and heavy-duty cords are a must.
Limit strand length to under 200 feet between the plug and last light to prevent voltage drop.
Connect multiple strands together by plugging end-to-end. Never exceed the wattage limit.
Use a GFCI outlet or extension cord for all outdoor lights for safety.
Make sure all connections are dry and off the ground.

Lighting Tips and Tricks

Follow these expert tips to make your lights shine:

Stick with all warm or all cool lights rather than mixing bulb temperatures.
Layer strings of lights at varying heights for depth and interest.
Twist or braid light strands for a neat, polished look.
Angle lights up toward trees or structures to create ambiance.
Use compact diffuse bulbs or frosted globes to reduce glare.
Add backlighting or uplighting behind plants for silhouetting effects.
Spotlight key features and areas using directional floodlights.
Incorporate pathway lighting low to the ground to safely illuminate steps.
Mix in strings of accent lights such as lanterns or spotlights.
Experiment with bold colors! Don’t be afraid to use color-changing options.

Lighting Different Areas

Certain lighting strategies work especially well to illuminate specific areas:

Patio String Light Ideas

Outline the patio perimeter with continuous lighting.
Drape lights back and forth ceiling to floor for an alley or urban feel.
Criss-cross strings in geometric patterns along the pergola or beams.
Suspend a light fixture over dining tables as a creative chandelier.

Deck String Lighting Tips

Wrap rails, banisters, and overhead beams in lights.
Line stairs with sequential dot lights built right into the risers.
Encircle tree trunks or tall plants on the perimeter with circular strands.
Use spotlights to highlight architectural or nautical accents.

Backyard String Lighting

Connect strands to fences, posts, or side of the house.
Angle floodlights up at mature trees to create glowing canopies.
Adhere compact disc lights along garden beds or the bases of trees.
Light up pathways and safe zones for kids to play at night.
Illuminate water features, fire pits, or other focal points.

Porch String Lights

Line the roofline and eaves with continuous lighting.
Hang pendant lights down between columns and posts.
Shine directional flood lighting onto the front door area.
Drape lantern-style lights across banisters and railings.

Garden String Lights

Wind lights loosely throughout tree branches or shrubs.
Edge planting beds, winding pathways, or stepping stones.
Use small stake lights to highlight individual plants or specimens.
Incorporate festoon lighting overhead for a whimsical look.
Accentuate water features, statues, or seating areas.

Seasonal Lighting Displays

Outdoor string lights serve double duty when decorated seasonally:

Spring and Summer Lighting

Welcome warmer weather with:

Blooming flower and butterfly lights
Garden stake lights along flower beds
Pathway lighting for summer night strolls
Backyard pole lights for extending daytime play
Patriotic red, white, and blue lights for Memorial Day

Fall and Winter Lighting

Fall and winter lighting ideas include:

Orange string lights for Halloween
Sparkling icicle lights along the roofline and trees
Shimmering white lights to emulate snowfall
Colored spotlights to glow against fall foliage
Red, green, blue, and white for Christmas displays
Festival lighting for holiday parties

Maintenance Tips

Follow these maintenance practices to keep your lights shining season after season:

Carefully remove debris like leaves or dirt from lights regularly.
Check for broken bulbs or malfunctioning lights and promptly replace.
Make sure all connectors are securely plugged in and wires are undamaged.
Test lights before reinstalling each season to discard any faulty strands.
Wipe down cables with a wet cloth to refresh them.
Store lights neatly coiled up in a cool, dry place when not in use.
For solar lights, make sure panels get full sun exposure for recharging.

Safety Precautions

Observe these safety tips when installing outdoor lights:

Never overload extension cords or outlets.
Use GFCI outlets or extension cords to prevent electric shocks.
Do not run cords through standing water or leave connections exposed.
Check for overhead electrical wires before installing and maintain safe clearance.
Only use lights rated for outdoor use with proper moisture resistance.
Securely fasten all lights to prevent breakage and avoid trip hazards.
Position solar lights where panels get optimal sunlight for recharging.
Carefully follow all manufacturer instructions for safe installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common outdoor string light questions:

How high should I hang outdoor string lights?

Hang lights 7-15 feet high for best illumination. Lower for more intimate lighting or to highlight focal features. Higher to spread light over a wider area.

How do you hang string lights on a brick wall?

Use adhesive clips, plastic anchors, or magnets specially designed for brick. Ensure the brick does not have a protective water-repellant coating that could prevent adhesion.

What kind of nails should I use for outdoor lights?

Opt for galvanized or stainless steel nails which resist rusting. For wood, use 1 to 1 1/2 inch nails. Pre-drill holes into hardwoods to prevent splitting.

How do I hide wires for outdoor string lights?

Conceal wires by running them behind rain gutters, along the bottoms of eaves, through decorative poles, inside raceways, under overhangs, or buried underground.camouflage with green wires around plants.

Can you leave outdoor string lights up all year round?

It is best to take lights down during extreme weather and store them when not in use to maximize lifespan. If leaving up, ensure lights are rated for permanent outdoor use and replace as needed.

How long do LED outdoor string lights last?

Outdoor LED string lights typically last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs, or around 20,000-50,000 hours. Quality LED lights can last 5-10 years with proper maintenance and weatherproofing.

What gauge wire should I use for outdoor lighting?

For most residential outdoor lighting, 12 or 14 gauge is ideal for security, durability and preventing voltage drop over longer cable lengths. Use a heavier 10 gauge for very long runs.

Can you cut string lights apart and reconnect them?

Yes, you can cut between bulb sockets and reconnect using outdoor-rated wire nuts or waterproof connectors. This allows customizing lengths. Avoid excessive splicing which can cause issues.

How do I stop my outdoor string lights from shorting out?

Check that the light covers have no cracks and that wires have no damage. Use GFCI outlets, outdoor-rated cords, and inspect wires. Keep connections dry and off the ground. Replace damaged strands.

Conclusion

Installing beautiful, bright outdoor string lights is an easy and affordable way to decorate any backyard, patio, porch, or garden. With proper planning and by following the techniques detailed in this guide, you can create a stunning and inviting ambiance in your outdoor space to enjoy day or night. Refer to these lighting ideas and safety tips whenever hanging and powering new or existing outdoor string lights to keep your space illuminated and magical for years to come.