Lighting enhances the beauty of any area. We pay a lot of attention to the lighting of our indoor living spaces, but we often neglect our outdoor living spaces. Outdoor string lights are an option that can completely transform your outdoor space. These lights can make your dull outdoor space lively.
Imagine your outdoor walls, fence, backyard or trees that are lit with string lights. It not only makes your outdoor space beautiful but also makes it enjoyable. You can party there with your family or friends, chit-chat, or enjoy summer evenings.
You can be very creative with string lights, and with the same creativity, you can decorate your outdoor space. Although it is pretty easy to hang string lights, sometimes hanging them outdoors becomes quite tricky.
But you don’t need to worry because, in this article, I will tell you in detail how to hang outdoor string lights. I am sure that after reading the suggestions given in this article, you will not make any mistake in hanging string lights in your outdoor space.
Planning Your Outdoor Lighting Design
Before you start hanging your lights, it’s essential to plan your design. It will assist you in knowing the number of lights required and the positioning of the lights.
Measure Your Space
- With the help of a measuring tape, you can calculate the distance of the area that has to be illuminated.
- Add extra length for dips and curves in your design.
- Consider the distance you cover to your power supply.
Choose a Pattern
There are numerous ways to arrange your outdoor string lights:
- Straight lines: Create a clean, modern look
- Zig-zag pattern: Provides more coverage and a playful feel
- Canopy style: Hang lights overhead for a magical ceiling effect
- Perimeter lighting: Outline your space for a defined look
Decide on Attachment Points
- Trees
- Fence posts
- Deck railings
- Exterior walls
- Dedicated poles or posts
Gather Materials and Tools
Before you begin the installation process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials:
- String lights
- Cable guide wire
- Measuring Tape
- Electric drill
- Screw hooks
- Wire cutter
- Zip ties
- Cedar or White posts
- Extension cord
- Ladder
How To Hang Outdoor String Lights
Step 1: Safety First
Switch off the power before starting the work you intend to do. You will use a strong ladder, and ensure that somebody holds it tight. Likewise, you should wear rubber shoes that are not slippery to ensure your safety.
Step 2: Prepare Installation Supports
If you have trees in your outdoor space, you can hang the string lights on the branches. In case you don’t have trees, dig some holes and install posts in them. For example, you can install a post on either end if you have a patio or deck in your backyard. You can use Cedar or White posts; I go for red cedar because it’s very strong.
Step 3: Mount Screw Hooks
Now it is time to mount the screw hooks. Lift your ladder and make a small hole at the top of the posts and mount the screw hook on it.
Step 4: Consider Cable Guide Wires (for Larger Spaces)
In case your space is small, then the string lights can be hanged directly and a hook can suspend it. However, if the space is large, then you will require a cable guide wire in the arrangement the string lights. The advantage of using cable guide wires is that the wires of your string light will not be under tension and will align as required.
Step 5: Attach String Lights
Now, attach your string lights to the cable guide wire. To attach, you can use zip ties that match the wire color of the string lights. The advantage of using zip ties of the same color is that there is no color differentiation, and it feels soothing to the eyes. The second most significant advantage of using zip ties is that you can space the string lights evenly.
Step 6: Connect to Power Source
Attach the string lights to a power source. The surroundings of your outdoor space will completely change as soon as you turn on the power. Now is the time to enjoy your hard work.
Wrap Up on How To Hang Outdoor String Lights
Outdoor string lights can make your outdoor spaces look amazing at night, but this requires planning and proper installation with maintenance. A guide like this should be able to help you create a beautiful outdoor area that everybody will envy, so get creative and light up those nights with lovely outdoor string lights!
Read Also: How To Clean Outdoor String Lights
