Brighten Up Your Holidays: Tips for Hanging Creative Holiday Lights

The holiday season is almost here and what better way to spread some cheer and make your home shine than by stringing it with creative holiday lights? Decorating the exterior of your home with festive lights is a cherished tradition that can transform your space into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re going for a classic, elegant look or something more whimsical and creative, here are some tips to help you hang your holiday lights like a pro.

1. Plan Your Design

Before you start climbing ladders and hanging lights, take a moment to plan your design. Think about the overall look you want to achieve. Do you want a traditional, classic holiday display with white or multicolored lights, or are you aiming for something more unique and creative? Look for inspiration online, and sketch out your ideas on paper to get a sense of how many lights you’ll need and where they’ll be placed.

2. Measure and Estimate

Once you have a design in mind, measure the areas you plan to decorate. Calculate the length of lights you’ll need to cover those spaces. It’s always a good idea to buy a little extra to account for unexpected issues or future changes. LED lights are energy-efficient and come in a wide range of colors and styles, making them a popular choice for holiday decorating.

3. Gather the Right Supplies

To hang creative holiday lights effectively, you’ll need the following supplies:

• Holiday lights of your choice
• Extension cords (outdoor-rated)
• Hooks, clips, or fasteners for attaching lights
• Ladder or step stool
• Timer or remote control for automated operation
• Electrical tape (for securing loose connections)

4. Test the Lights

Before hanging the lights, plug them in to make sure they are working properly. It’s much easier to replace or fix any issues at ground level than it is when you’re up on a ladder. Test each strand to ensure all bulbs are functioning as they should.

5. Start from the Top

When hanging lights along the roofline or eaves, start from the highest point and work your way down. This will make it easier to manage the lights and ensure they hang evenly. Use clips or fasteners designed for outdoor use to secure the lights in place. Adhesive hooks can work well for flat surfaces, while gutter hooks are great for attaching lights to gutters or rooflines.

Take Your Light Game to the Next Level

Simple light strings around your roofline have a nostalgic feel and carry the tradition of the holiday season. If you’re someone who likes to take on a challenge or you’re just ready to up your game, here are a few easy ways to elevate your light display this year:

1. Create Focal Points

Consider creating focal points by accentuating certain areas of your home. This might include wrapping lights around trees, bushes, or columns, or framing windows and doors with lights. Think about the architectural features of your home and how you can highlight them with your creative lighting design.

2. Mix Colors and Styles

Don’t limit yourself to a single color or style of lights. Mixing colors and styles can add depth and creativity to your display. For example, you can combine warm white lights with cool white lights, or incorporate twinkling or chasing lights for added visual interest.

3. Use Timers or Remote Controls

Make your holiday lighting experience even more convenient by using timers or remote controls. These allow you to automate when your lights turn on and off, saving you time and energy throughout the season.

4. Add Lawn Decorations

For a quick and easy way to elevate your holiday yard display, add lawn ornaments and decorations. Pick a theme to complement your lights or select a mix of your favourite holiday characters and symbols.

With these tips, you can hang creative holiday lights around the exterior of your home and turn it into a festive, eye-catching masterpiece. Whether you opt for a classic, elegant look or something more whimsical and unique, safety should be your top priority when hanging holiday lights. When climbing ladders or working on roofs, be cautious and use proper safety gear, like non-slip shoes and gloves. Here are some detailed safety tips to ensure your holiday light installation is accident-free:

1. Inspect Your Lights Thoroughly:

Before you start, carefully inspect all your holiday lights. Look for damaged cords, frayed wires, or broken bulbs. Replace any faulty components to prevent electrical hazards or shorts. Throughout the season, periodically check your display for loose bulbs or wires to replace damaged parts or tighten loose connections.

2. Choose Weather-Appropriate Days:

Timing is essential. Plan to hang your lights on a day when the weather is calm and dry. Avoid working in wet, rainy, or windy conditions. Slippery surfaces and water can pose significant safety risks, so always check the weather forecast before beginning your project.

3. Use the Right Ladder:

If your light installation requires you to reach high areas, use a sturdy, well-maintained ladder. Make sure it’s set up on stable, level ground. Never overreach or stand on the top step of a ladder. If possible, have someone assist you by holding the ladder steady.

4. Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets & Water:

To prevent electrical overloads, avoid plugging too many strands of lights into a single outlet or extension cord. Use outdoor-rated extension cords and outlets equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shocks or fires. Ensure all connections are well-protected from water. Cover outdoor outlets with waterproof covers, and make sure extension cord connections are elevated or encased in protective containers to prevent them from sitting in puddles or snow.

5. Electrical Connections & Power Lines:

Properly secure all electrical connections. Use electrical tape to bind connections between strands or to seal any open plugs. This will protect against moisture and ensure a reliable electrical connection. Be aware of overhead power lines when installing lights on trees or near your home to prevent accidental contact. Contact with power lines can be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.

7. Keep Cords and Wires Tidy:

To reduce trip hazards and prevent tangling, arrange your extension cords and wires neatly along the ground. Use cord clips or stakes to keep them secure and out of high-traffic areas. Select clips and fasteners designed for outdoor use and the specific surfaces you’re working with. For instance, gutter clips are excellent for securing lights to the eaves, while adhesive hooks work well on flat surfaces. Make sure they are securely attached before hanging your lights.

8. Turn Off Lights When Not in Use:

Switch off your holiday lights when you’re not around to enjoy them, and especially before going to bed. This conserves energy and reduces the risk of overheating or electrical issues.

Remember, safety should always be the top priority when decorating your home with holiday lights. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can enjoy a beautiful and safe holiday display that brightens your home and your spirits throughout the season.

Happy decorating!

-Paige Sandvold is a Marketing Manager at Directwest