How do you stick lights to the outside of your house?

When decorating the exterior of your house with lights, you want them to stay securely in place without causing damage to your walls, roof, or siding. Whether you're hanging Christmas lights, outdoor fairy lights, or decorative string lights, here’s how you can stick lights to the outside of your house safely and effectively.

Materials Needed:

• Outdoor lights (string lights, LED lights, fairy lights, etc.)
• Outdoor light clips/hooks (adhesive or screw-in)
• Command strips (removable outdoor strips, if you don’t want to drill)
• Zip ties (for securing the lights)
• Extension cord (if needed)
• Ladder (for safety)
• Measuring tape (optional, to space lights evenly)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Choose the Right Lights for the Outdoors

• Make sure the lights you choose are outdoor-rated, meaning they are designed to withstand weather conditions like rain, wind, and snow.
• LED lights are a great option since they are energy-efficient and long-lasting.

2. Select Appropriate Hanging Method

Depending on the surface of your house (brick, siding, wood, etc.), you can choose from different methods to stick your lights:

• Adhesive Clips or Hooks:

  • Outdoor adhesive hooks (such as 3M Command Hooks) are great for attaching lights to the side of your house without drilling holes. They can be easily removed after the season without damaging the surface.
  • These hooks come with outdoor adhesive that holds up against the elements, so they are perfect for hanging lights on smooth, clean surfaces like vinyl siding, stucco, or brick.
  • Simply peel and stick the hook where you want it to be and hang the light strand onto the hook.

• Screw-in Clips:

  • If you have a wooden or stucco exterior, screw-in clips may be a better option. These clips typically use screws to stay in place, and you can easily attach lights by looping them through the clip.
  • Use a drill or screwdriver to install the clips along the edge of the roofline or along the windowsills.

• Command Strips:

  • For a damage-free option, use outdoor Command strips. They are designed to hold up lights on most outdoor surfaces and are a good option if you want a temporary setup that can be easily removed.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying them to your house exterior. Simply apply the strips where you want to place the lights, and press the light strings firmly onto them.

3. Measure and Plan the Placement

• Before you start sticking lights to the exterior, measure the area where you plan to hang them to ensure you have the right amount of lights.
• Plan the layout by deciding whether you want the lights on the roofline, around windows, along the porch, or across the yard. Mark the starting point and ending point for the lights.

Tip: If you're installing lights around windows or doorways, it's essential to space them evenly. You can use a measuring tape or estimate the spacing to maintain a consistent look.

4. Attach the Lights to the House

• Adhesive Hooks:
  • Install your adhesive hooks along the roofline, windows, or around doors. Stick them firmly to the surface and allow them to set for 10-15 minutes.
  • Hang the lights by looping them over the hooks. Be sure not to overload the hooks, as they should only hold a reasonable amount of weight.
• Command Strips:
  • If using Command strips, press each strip onto a clean surface where you plan to place the light strands. Once secured, carefully attach the light string to the strips.
• Screw-in Clips:
  • If you are using screw-in clips, screw them into the exterior surface of the house every 12-18 inches. Loop the light strands through the clips, ensuring they are secure and evenly spaced.

5. Secure the Lights

• Zip Ties: For extra security, use zip ties to hold the lights in place, especially on areas where they might sway or blow in the wind.

• Tighten zip ties around the light strands to prevent them from drooping or swinging.

• Extension Cords: If you need to use an extension cord, make sure it's rated for outdoor use. You can run it from your nearest outdoor outlet to your lights while securing the cord along the ground with cable clips or zip ties to prevent tripping hazards.

6. Check the Lights and Plug Them In

• Once the lights are secured, plug them in to check if they are working. If you’re using LED lights, they should light up instantly without any flickering.
• Make sure the lights are evenly distributed and that there are no areas where the lights are sagging or hanging loosely.

7. Adjust the Lights (Optional)

• If you’re not happy with the positioning, most adhesive hooks and Command strips can be removed and repositioned.
• Adjust the lights until they are evenly spaced and positioned exactly where you want them to be.

Tips for Hanging Lights on the Outside of Your House:

• Use LED Lights: They are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and produce less heat than traditional lights, which makes them safer for long-term use.
• Weather Resistance: Make sure the clips, hooks, and adhesives are rated for outdoor use to ensure they hold up in harsh weather conditions.
• Plan the Power Source: If you're using plug-in lights, ensure that your extension cord and power outlet are rated for outdoor use.
• Install a Timer or Smart Plug: Consider using a timer or smart plug to automatically turn the lights on and off, saving energy and extending the life of your lights.

YouTube Tutorials for Hanging Lights on Your House:

• How to Hang Outdoor Lights with Hooks
• How to Install Christmas Lights Without Damaging Your House

By following these steps, you’ll be able to stick lights to the outside of your house securely and safely, creating a festive, beautiful look that will last for seasons to come.