How to Hang Up Outdoor String Lights - Outdoor Cabinets

Hanging up outdoor string lights is a great way to decorate your outdoor space and create a warm, inviting ambiance. With the right techniques and tips, you can install beautiful outdoor lighting that will make your patio, garden or yard glow. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to hang up outdoor string lights.

Choosing the Right Outdoor String Lights

The first step in hanging outdoor string lights is selecting the right type of lighting for your needs and preferences. Here are some of the main options to consider:

Incandescent vs LED

Incandescent lights are the traditional choice, providing a warm and cozy glow. However, they are less energy-efficient and the bulbs burn out faster than LED.
LED string lights are more durable and energy efficient. They last much longer than incandescent bulbs. LED lights are available in warm white as well as full color options.

Bulb Size and Spacing

Smaller mini bulb sizes like G40 or micro lights have more bulbs per foot, providing fuller light coverage.
For a more exposed bulb look, choose C7 or C9 bigger bulb sizes. There are fewer bulbs spaced further apart.
For soft ambient lighting, opt for T5 mini bulb size.
Edison-style bulbs have a vintage look with visible filaments. They provide a warmer glow.

Light Color

Warm white light is a soft yellow and most closely resembles incandescent. It’s a great choice for creating cozy lighting.
Cool white light has a brighter, whiter glow, similar to daylight. It’s more energizing.
Multicolor string lights allow you to decorate with a variety of hues. These can be set to one color or cycle through multiple colors.

Waterproofing

For placement in outdoor elements like rain and snow, choose weatherproof, waterproof lights. These have heavier duty insulation and casing to withstand the outdoor conditions.
For protected areas like patios and pergolas, standard outdoor lights work well.

Power Source

Plug-in lights are the easiest option. They simply plug into an outdoor outlet. Use an outdoor timer or photocell sensor to control when they turn on.
Solar lights absorb sunlight during the day and turn on automatically at night. No wiring required!
Battery-operated string lights run on batteries so they are portable and wireless. Batteries must be replaced seasonally.
Hardwired lights are connected directly to your home’s electrical system and require professional installation. This is best for permanent lighting.

Choosing the Right Location

Once you have the style of lighting picked out, it’s time to determine the perfect spot to install them. Here are some aspects to consider:

Purpose – Are you installing mood lighting for the patio? Adding festive flare to garden beds and landscaping? Highlighting architectural features? Identify your goal to pinpoint locations.
Seating areas like patios, gazebos, and decks are great spots for overhead string lighting. It adds ambiance guests will enjoy.
Use lighting to accent architectural elements and details like eaves, fences, pillars, and steps to make them pop.
Line walkways and garden paths to help illuminate and guide traffic flow at night. This adds both form and function.
String lights in and around garden beds, flower pots, and landscaping add a magical touch. Opt for solar or plug-in to minimize digging.
Trees make excellent backdrops for wrapping string lights. Both large shade trees and smaller ornamentals can handle light strings well.
For added security, position lights by gates, driveway entrances, or dark areas. This helps illuminate potential hazards.

Securing Your String Lights

Once you have your location selected, the next step is safely and securely hanging the outdoor string lights and keeping them in place. Here are some tips:

Use Sturdy Mounting Points

Choose solid, reliable points to attach the light strings. This prevents sagging, slipping, and other hazards. Good options include:

Fences, posts, pillars, and beams
Eaves, overhangs, and roof edges
Windowsills and storm shutters
Strong tree branches and trunks
Hooks, clips, or trellises designed for hanging lights

Avoid flimsy surfaces prone to wobbling like vinyl siding or unsupported elements. Use extra ties, clips, and mounts for a stronger hold if needed.

Hang Lights Properly Based on Surface

Use materials suitable for the surface you’re mounting to:

Wood, plastic, cement, brick: Insulated staples, Command clips, zip ties, or gaffer’s tape.
Stucco or stone: Hooks, clips, or mounting blocks designed for masonry.
Vinyl siding or gutters: Special siding clips, hooks, or removable 3M strips.
Trees: Rope, plant-safe ties, insulated staples, or breathable tree mounts.

The key is choosing light, removable options that won’t damage the mounting surface.

Use Extensions and Connectors Properly

When running multiple light strings, use outdoor-rated extension cords, timers, adapters, and connectors. This ensures a continuous safe power flow. Tips:

Use grounded, exterior cords and outlets protected from water.
Do not overload cords with more strings than recommended.
Connect multiple strands properly using outdoor-safe connectors.
Avoid loose connections, frayed cords, and unprotected outlets.

Work Safely at Heights

Use proper equipment and precautions when mounting lights above ground level:

Use sturdy ladders, not chairs or tables which can collapse.
Have someone steady the ladder for you.
Avoid leaning too far to either side and over-reaching.
Consider hiring a professional for roof edges, tall trees, and high surfaces.
Turn off power at the breaker when installing weatherproof hardwired lights.

Hanging Techniques for Different Surfaces

The specific installation method you use will vary based on where you are mounting the outdoor string lights.

Fences

Fences make great anchors for hanging overhead string lighting. For wood, plastic, or metal fences:

Use insulated staples, Command hooks, or zip ties on posts for quick fastening.
Run strands horizontally, vertically, or in curves along fencing.
For added security on vinyl, use removable 3M tape strips.
On chain link fences, weave strands through the links or use S-hooks.

Poles, Pergolas, Posts

Structures like pergolas, gazebos, pillars, and posts allow you to hang lights directly from their beams and overheads.

Drape strands over cross-beams in arcs or zig-zags for ambiance.
Wrap poles in spiral or crisscross patterns.
Use hooks on the sides of posts or thread lights through decor pieces.
On metal poles, magnet clips can secure lights easily.

Windows, Eaves, Shutters

The edges of the house exterior make convenient anchor points for hanging lights overhead:

Affix Command hooks or plastic clips along the eaves or gutters to drape strands downward.
Adhere removable 3M strips on window trim, sills, and shutters to add accent lighting.
For permanent lights along the roofline, have them hardwired by an electrician.
On overhangs, bolt in S-hooks to hang strands from.

Trees

Trees provide tons of options for wrapping string lights on branches for stunning effects.

Wrap thick, low-hanging branches in strands stemming from the trunk.
Suspend vertical strands from branches using toggles or plant ties.
Drape lights overhead through tree canopies using plastic covered steel cables.
Place solar tree mounts on thick branches to avoid drilling holes.
For all methods, avoid damaging the bark or constricting growth.

Incorporating Safety Features

Safety should be the top priority when powering and displaying any kind of outdoor lighting. Follow these tips to build in safety:

For hardwired lighting, install a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. This will shut off power if there is a surge or short.
Use outdoor timers set to operate lights at desired times to conserve energy when not needed. Photocell sensors automatically turn lights on at dusk.
Select outdoor-rated lights marked for exterior use with weatherproof insulation and casing.
Coat exposed light bulb sockets and connections with silicone sealant to prevent water damage.
Position plug connections and cords safely off the ground protected from puddles, lawn mowers, and damage.
Check lights for broken bulbs, frayed cords, loose connections before each use. Remove any damaged string lights immediately.
Turn off all lighting during storms and high winds to avoid hazards.
For homes with pools, place plugs and transformers at least 10 feet away from the water.
Never leave any kind of outdoor lights unattended or on overnight. Only display when home.

Lighting Effects to Try

String lights offer so many creative options for lighting up your exterior spaces. Have fun with these lighting ideas:

Festive Flair

Outline rooflines, doors, and windows with mini twinkle lights for a magical allure.
Decorate bushes and landscaping with lights to add a festive pop of color.
Accent passageways by lining walkways, stair rails, and entry arches.
Encircle tree trunks and outstretching branches with warm white bulbs.
Drape overhead strands from corner to corner for an ambient glow on patios.

Focused Brightness

Illuminate dark, unsafe areas around gates, driveways, or steps.
Spotlight architectural focal points like fountains, art pieces, or house numbers.
Hang Edison-style bulbs or edgier C9 lights over seating areas for clearer visibility.
Mount individual bulb strands along garage doors, patios or sheds as bold accents.

Subtle Sophistication

Outline architectural shapes and angles with slim monofilament or cable lighting.
Layer strings of delicate micro-size G40 bulbs through trees and landscaping features.
Accent alcoves, niches, and dividers with thin lines of light for separation.
Useglowing white lights to illuminate structural features like columns or trellises.

With the right techniques, you can install beautiful and unique outdoor string lighting displays that make your home shine. Experiment with different bulbs, patterns, locations, and lighting effects to find the perfect match for your space and style. Just be sure to prioritize safety by using proper installation methods and weatherproof materials. With these tips, your outdoor string lights will provide a glowing ambiance and stunning curb appeal for many seasons to come.

Troubleshooting Guide

Even with proper installation and maintenance, you may occasionally experience some issues with your outdoor string lights. Here is a troubleshooting guide covering common problems and solutions:

Lights Not Turning On

Check power connections – Make sure plugs are fully inserted. Check for loose wiring in hardwired lights. Replace any damaged cords.
Test outlet function – Plug in another device to confirm the outlet is working properly. Use GFCI outlets protected from rain or water.
Replace spent batteries – Solar lights and battery-operated strands may need new batteries if lights are dim or not turning on.
Check for tripped breaker – For hardwired lights, a tripped breaker may cut power. Flip breaker switches fully off and on again to reset.
Examine for broken bulbs – Lights with broken bulbs on a strand may cause others not to light. Replace bulbs promptly.

Dim, Flickering or Dull Lights

Replace old bulbs – Incandescent and LED bulbs burn out over time. Replace bulbs that appear blackened, cracked, or are no longer bright.
Evaluate power source – Weak batteries, overloaded cords, loose plugs, or faulty wiring can cause flickering.
Check for loose, exposed wires – Any areas where wiring is loose or stripped can flicker and short out. Rewrap and secure connections.
Add a surge protector – Power surges from storms or faulty wiring can damage lights. Use a surge protector.
Clean dirty bulbs – Grime, dirt, and insects on bulbs can cut brightness. Wipe down gently or replace.

Sparking or Shock Risk

Discontinue use immediately – Any sparking or risk of shock is hazardous. Turn lights off at breaker until resolved.
Check for faulty wiring – Exposed wires, stripped insulation, or water damage can trigger sparking. Rewire or replace.
Use GFCI outlets – Outlets with ground fault protection will shut off power if faulty. Replace any damaged GFCI outlets.
Eliminate loose connections – Any loose plugs, broken lights or gaps in wiring can cause sparks.
Separate from water – Never use plugs or electrical boxes close to standing water sources like pools.

String Lights Falling Down

Reinforce mounting points – Add extra clips, ties, hooks, or toggles for a more secure hold.
Adjust positioning – Reposition strands closer to attachment points to reduce sagging and slack.
Use heavier gauge wiring – Choose commercial grade or outdoor cables designed to handle weather and remain taut.
Shorten strand length – Reduce span lengths between anchor points so lights don’t pull down in the middle.
Remove in high winds – Gusty winds will bring down strands. Take lights down temporarily until better weather.
Level sloping lines – Use ties or clips to return sagging lines to a horizontal position and prevent sliding.

With some periodic troubleshooting adjustments, your string lights should provide years of reliable performance. Reach out to a professional for any issues related to wiring, electrical safety, or installations at dangerous heights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some common questions about how to hang outdoor string lights:

What are the best places to hang outdoor string lights?

Good spots include patios, pergolas, gazebos, garden beds, pathways, trees, fences, and buildings. Focus on frequently used areas where you want decorative or functional lighting.

How do I hang string lights safely on a tall house or in trees?

For high areas, use a tall sturdy ladder or hire a professional. Never lean from windows or stand on chairs or tables. For trees, use ropes or tree-safe ties without damaging the bark.

Can I just plug string lights into an outdoor outlet?

Yes, plug-in string lights work well with exterior outlets. Use weatherproof outlets with covers and ground fault interrupters. Avoid overloading the circuit.

What kind of nails, hooks, or clips should I use?

Choose light, removable fasteners like Command hooks, zip ties, or insulated staples. Avoid anything that will damage wood, siding, masonry, or trees permanently.

How do I prevent lights from sagging over time?

Use quality commercial grade strands, sufficient anchors at close intervals, and reinforce over time with extra ties. Remove lights during inclement weather to prevent pulling.

How often should I replace light bulbs on a string?

Incandescent bulbs last 1-3 seasons on average. LED lights can last up to a decade with proper voltage. Check monthly and replace individual bulbs as needed.

Can I connect multiple string light strands together?

Yes, you can connect multiple plug-in strands using outdoor-rated extension cords and light strand connectors. Take care not to overload cords.

What do I do if my lights stop working suddenly?

Check for broken bulbs, loose plugs, tripped breakers, damage from weather, frayed cords, or expired batteries if solar lights. Check outlets and wiring for power flow issues.

Conclusion

Installing outdoor string lights provides gorgeous, festive lighting for your exterior spaces. By choosing weatherproof strands, securing them properly at strategic spots, incorporating safety measures, and troubleshooting issues as they arise, you can keep your lights glowing flawlessly for seasons to come. Use the tips in this guide to select the perfect lighting, hang it up properly, and get creative with stunning placement and displays. With the right string lights installed using safe methods, your home will shine beautifully and your outdoor living spaces will stay bright and inviting even after the sun goes down.