How to Hang Outdoor Patio String Lights

How to Hang Outdoor Patio String Lights Blog Post

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you hang outdoor string lights beautifully and securely.

Step 1: Find Your Anchor Points

Start by walking around your space and envisioning how you want the lights to flow. Make note of any structures that could serve as anchor points, like the following:

  • Trees
  • Pillars
  • Fences
  • Poles
  • Railings
  • Walls
  • A shed, gazebo, or pergola

Consider a Zigzag Pattern

string lights zigzag pattern

Or Spoke Pattern

String Light Spoke Pattern

Or Simple Perimeter Lighting

Perimeter sting lighting

Step 2: Measure Distance

Measure the total distance you'll need to cover, and add 10-15% extra length to account for the natural drape of the lights.

Step 3: Choose an Installation Method

Use a Guide Wire with S-hooks or Temporary Ties

This method is ideal for larger patios or areas with minimal structural support. Here’s how to set it up:

  1. Attach the Guide Wire to Structural Supports: Start by connecting the guide wire to fixed points, such as walls, trees, or poles, at each end of the area you want to cover.
  2. Use S-hooks or Temporary Ties: To attach the string lights to the guide wire, use S-hooks or temporary ties. Space these along the guide wire to hold the lights securely without putting too much strain on the wire itself.
  3. Ensure Proper Tension: The guide wire should be taut enough to prevent sagging but not overly tight, which could cause it to snap. Adjust the tension as needed to keep the lights level.

Attach Directly to a Structure

If you have nearby structures, like a house wall, pergola, or fence, you can mount string lights directly without a guide wire. 

  1. Install Screw Hooks into Structural Supports: Place screw hooks at regular intervals along the structure. A spacing of 2-4 feet between hooks is typically recommended, depending on how taut or draped you want the lights.
  2. Attach Lights Directly to Hooks: Secure the string lights onto each screw hook. This direct attachment method keeps the lights close to the structure and provides a clean, stable look.
  3. Check Stability: Ensure that each hook is tightly secured to the structure and that the lights are evenly distributed across all hooks. This setup is particularly useful for smaller areas or where you want a more streamlined appearance.

Step 4: Gather Your Supplies

  • String lights: Only buy lights that are wet rated to ensure they can withstand exposure to wind, rain, and other weather conditions. 
  • Hooks or clips: Depending on your setup, you could use any of the following:
    • S-hooks
    • Cup hooks
    • Temporary ties
    • Screw hooks
    • Plastic Staples for Cable with Nail
  • Extension cords: Check if the light string length meets your needs or if additional extension cords are required.
  • Outdoor-rated plug: Use a weatherproof plug or cover for your power outlet for safety.
  • Support poles (if needed): If you’re hanging lights over an open space without trees or walls, you’ll need poles to secure them. You can either drive the pole into the ground or place it in a large bucket and pour quick dry cement in it to make a sturdy base.

Step 5: Install Support for Your Lights (Optional)

If there are no structures to anchor the lights, you can use poles to hold them up. Metal poles or wooden stakes work well for this purpose, especially for backyard installations. 

Securing a Pole Underground

  • Dig a Hole: Use a post hole digger to create holes approximately 1.5 to 2 feet deep, depending on the pole height and soil type. Deeper holes are more stable.
  • Add Gravel for Drainage: Pour a few inches of gravel into each hole to improve drainage and prevent the pole from sinking over time.
  • Place the Pole into the Hole: Position the pole vertically in the center of the hole.
  • Add Concrete for Stability: Pour quick-setting concrete around the pole, filling the hole about two-thirds full. Make sure the pole is straight by using a level, then allow the concrete to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Backfill with Soil: After the concrete has set, fill the rest of the hole with soil and pack it tightly to further secure the pole.

Using a Bucket and Concrete 

This method is ideal if you want to avoid digging holes or if you need to move the lights to different areas in the future.

  • Choose a Sturdy Bucket: A 5-gallon bucket works well for most installations, but you can use a larger container or decorative planter if you want a more attractive look.
  • Position the Pole: Stand the pole upright in the middle of the bucket, holding it steady. If you’re using a taller pole, you may need assistance to keep it in place as you add the concrete.
  • Use a Level: Check that the pole is perfectly vertical. This is crucial for stability and aesthetics, especially if you’re using multiple poles.
  • Mix and Pour Concrete: Follow the instructions on the concrete mix package and then fill the bucket two-thirds full. Hold the pole steady and use the level to check its alignment as the concrete begins to set.
  • Let the Concrete Cure: Allow the concrete to set for the recommended time, usually at least 24 hours.
  • Add Weight for Extra Stability: Add extra weight to the bucket by placing large rocks or sandbags on top of the concrete to protect it toppling in windy conditions.

Step 6: Attach Screw Hooks

Once you have the poles or support structure ready, the next step is to add hooks to secure the string lights. Here’s how to go about it for each type of surface.

Adding Hooks to House Siding

  • Drill a Hole: Drill a small pilot hole where you want each hook to go, making sure it’s slightly smaller than the hook’s diameter. This pilot hole helps prevent splitting and makes it easier to screw in the hook.
  • Insert the Hooks: Once the pilot hole is drilled, twist the screw hook into the hole by hand. For extra grip, you can use pliers to tighten the hook fully.
  • Spacing Hooks: Place the hooks at regular intervals (usually 2 to 4 feet apart, depending on your preferred drape) to keep the lights secure and evenly distributed.

Adding Plastic Staples for Cable Management

Plastic staples are useful for securing light cables and keeping them from flapping in the wind. 

  • Where to Add Them: Place plastic staples along areas where the cable might hang loosely or where it needs to be routed neatly, such as along the edge of siding, poles, or under eaves.
  • How to Secure Them: Position the staple over the cable, press it gently, and use a hammer to secure it into the surface. Make sure not to press too hard to avoid damaging the cable.

Adding Hooks to Support Poles

If you’re using poles to support your lights, adding hooks at the top of each pole will help hold everything in place.

  • Choose Weather-Resistent Hooks: For outdoor setups, opt for galvanized or stainless steel screw hooks that can withstand exposure to the elements.
  • Install Hooks: Drill a small pilot hole if necessary, then screw the hook securely into the top of the pole. Make sure it’s tightly fastened to handle the weight of the lights and any tension.
  • Evenly Space the Hooks: If you’re using several poles, ensure the hooks are positioned at the same height on each pole.

Adding Hooks to Trees

Trees can be natural anchor points for string lights, but it’s important to attach hooks in a way that doesn’t harm the tree.

  • Use Tree-Friendly Hooks: Tree hooks designed for outdoor lights are often rubber-coated to minimize damage.
  • Install the Hooks: Screw hooks into the tree trunk or thick branches at the desired height, but avoid drilling too deep to prevent injuring the tree. If possible, use a tree strap system instead of screwing directly into the tree, as this is less invasive.
  • Adjust for Growth: Remember that trees grow over time, so check the hooks periodically to ensure they are not being overtaken by the bark, which could lead to damage.

Adding Guide Wires Using Hooks

Attaching guide wires with hooks provides a stable base for your string lights.

  • Attach Hooks: Install sturdy hooks at each end of the area where the guide wire will be stretched. These hooks need to be strong enough to hold the tension of the guide wire.
  • Using Turnbuckles for Tension: For extra support, you can use turnbuckles to adjust the tension of the guide wire. Attach one end of the guide wire to the hook using an S-hook or carabiner, and the other end to a turnbuckle, which is then attached to another hook. Tighten the turnbuckle to achieve the right tension.

Step 7: Hang the Lights

With your support ready, you can start hanging the lights.

  1. Start at the outlet: Plug in the string lights and start hanging them from the power source, working your way outward.
  2. Secure lights to hooks or clips: Attach the lights to the hooks or clips, spacing them evenly to avoid tension.
  3. Adjust as needed: Stand back to check if the lights are evenly hung. Make any adjustments to ensure a balanced look.

To achieve a slight drape effect, leave a little slack in the string lights rather than pulling them too tight.

    Conclusion

    String lights are a trendy, fun, and relatively easy way to liven up your patio. Plan your layout, gather your tools, and get ready to light up the night. 

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