If you have just set up a patio in your outdoor space, you must be thinking about the lighting options. String lights are a fantastic way to enhance the ambiance and aesthetics of any outdoor space. Hanging string lights on your patio can transform the space. But how do you actually do it?
Although I don’t have a patio in my outdoor space, I recently helped my friend set up string lighting on his patio. I can share my experience with you. I will tell you how to hang string lights on a covered patio and what tools you will need.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials
- String lights and bulbs
- Extension cords
- Light clips or hooks
- Zip ties or adhesive cable clips
- Mini metal carabiners
Tools
- Measuring Tape
- Ladder
- Pencil or marker
- Drill
What to do Before Hanging String Lights on a Covered Patio
Before hanging the string lights, you have to visualize the entire design. If you know in advance how you want the lighting of your patio, then it becomes very easy to set up the lighting later. Let me explain to you in points what things you have to keep in mind in advance.
1. Choose the right string lights
String lights are available in different colors, designs, as well as styles, which means that you will never be out of choices. You can choose from modern to classic string lights as per your preference.
The cord is one such part that is not given much attention, and most of the focus is on the design of the light. I always try to choose a color of the cord that blends with the space. If you wish, you can keep the color of the cord similar to the color of the space so that it blends easily.
2. LED vs. Incandescent bulbs
There should be no doubt that LED bulbs are better than incandescent bulbs in every way. They consume less energy and last a lot longer. However, if you want dimmable or sparkling lights, you can go with glass incandescent bulbs.
When selecting string light bulbs, you must keep the lumen and Kelvin values in mind. The lumen value tells us how bright the bulb is. This value ranges from 20 to 100 lumens. If you want a brighter bulb, then its lumen value will be higher, whereas bulbs with lower lumen value are less bright.
Likewise, the Kelvin value indicates the color temperature of the bulb. It comes in the range of 2000 to 4000 Kelvin. The closer to Kelvin, the lower the number is, the warmer your light will be; the closer to Kelvin, the larger the number, the whiter your light will be.
3. Assess Your Patio Space
Before installing string lights in your patio space, determine the length and width of the area that is covered. This will help you to estimate the number of lights you require. It will be possible to space the string lights anywhere between 12 inches and 2-3 feet apart. That will, however, depend on the arrangement of your lights.
You also need to consider existing sources of power and outlets that exist within the area of your patio. If there is no source of electricity in the vicinity of the patio, one will need extension cords.
4. Decide on a Layout for Your Lights
There are several design patterns with which one can hang the string light.
Classic Zigzag Pattern: The common traditional pattern is zigzag; it is a good idea to place the lights on the walls of the patio. Instead of hanging them in a row as it is expected, you hang them backward, and forward. This makes your patio to have fun and lively looks.
Perimeter Outlining: “Perimeter Outlining” is a way to light up your patio by placing lights around its edges. This makes the whole area light up nicely and evenly.
Fan or Spoke Design: Think about a patio, whether it’s round or square. Instead of putting things all over the place, you arrange them so they look like they’re spreading out from the center, like lines coming from the middle of a circle. That’s called a fan or spoke design.
How to Hang String Lights on a Covered Patio
Step 1: Plan Your Layout
- Determine the places where you wish to put the lights. Consider the length of the string lights and how they’ll be arranged.
- Use a measuring tape to determine the length of string lights needed.
Step 2: Choose Your Mounting Points
- Look for sturdy points on the patio ceiling, beams, or posts where you can attach the hooks or clips.
- Ensure the points can support the weight of the lights.
Step 3: Install Hooks or Clips
- For screw-in hooks: Mark the locations for the screws. Drill pilot holes, then screw in the screws.
- For adhesive hooks or clips: Clean the area to be applied. Install the screws or screws according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 4: Hang the Lights
- Begin by placing the string lights as far as one can reach from that end of the patio and fix them on the hooks or clips. Ensure that the intensity of the light is right and the lamps are evenly placed.
- If the string lights are too long, you can loop or adjust the placement of the hooks/clips as needed.
Step 5: Connect and Test
- Plug the string lighting into an outdoor-rated extension wire if needed.
- Test the lights to make sure they’re working and adjust their placement if necessary.
Step 6: Safety Check
- Make sure the lights are securely attached and that the wires are not hanging loose or in areas where they can be damaged.
How to Hang String Lights on a Covered Patio Without Nails
If you don’t want a single hole in your patio, there are many ways you can hang string lights.
Install adhesive hooks or clips
Adhesive hooks are commonly used to hang outdoor lights. They are a convenient way to hang lights on a surface without having to make holes in it. Clean the surface thoroughly before applying adhesive hooks. Any dust left on the surface will weaken the adhesive. Putting up adhesive hooks is simple. Just peel off the back and stick each hook on firmly. Press for a few seconds to make sure it sticks well.
Utilize Zip Ties
Zip ties are not only useful for wrapping items, but you can also use them to set up lights on your patio. They are also useful for attaching string lights to the beams and railings of a pergola. When you hang the lights with them, be careful not to make them so tight that they crack the wiring of the string lights.
Utilize Patio Pillars
Using patio pillars to hang string lights is a very useful and convenient way. If your patio has a hollow-carved design, you can easily hang the lights by passing them through the hollow space. If there is no hollow space on the patio pillars, you can also hang the lights by draping them over the pillars. Make sure you attach the lights tightly to the beam so that they do not fall.
Use Command Strips
Command Strips are another convenient option for hanging string lights. First, clean the area where you’ll stick the Command Strips with rubbing alcohol. Then, remove the backing of the Command Strip from one side and push it firmly against the wall. Do this for all the places you want to hang your string lights. Next, attach the cable lights clips to the Command Strips.
Final Words
Now you’re all set to hang those pretty string lights on your covered patio like a pro! With a bit of planning and the right tools, you can make your outdoor space look magical.
Related: How To Hang String Lights Without Nails
