Let’s be honest: not many things test your patience more than taking last year’s Christmas lights out of the box and finding a tangled mess that looks like a plate of noodles. Putting them up? That’s a whole different level. Only people with a plan, steady nerves, and more power outlets than you think can handle it, whether they’re decorating their store display or making their home sparkle for the holidays. Read more information here!
Take a thorough look at the outline of your house, including the porch railing, gutters, and roof edges. Make sure to carry a tape measure so you don’t guess and come up short. It’s easier to do everything when you know exactly where to cover and where to find power sources. For safety, use outdoor-rated extension cables and plugs. Indoor cords and poor weather don’t mix.
Now comes the fun part: choosing your colors! Red and green always look good, but classic white creates a warm glow in the winter. If you’re feeling brave, consider strands that change color and turn your home into a full-on light display. Do what makes you happy, but make sure to check for any community rules before you go all out like Clark Griswold.
If you want perfect lines, get rid of the staples and nails and use plastic light clips instead. Clips snap on and off easily and don’t leave any marks behind. They also protect your siding from holes and scrapes.
A simple drawing on a piece of paper or even a mental map can help. Before you start, be sure you know where to start and where to connect in. Before you climb up, always check your lights. No one wants to find a dead strand at the top of a ladder during the holidays.
You should respect ladders. Don’t try to be a superhero. Instead, keep a friend or family member close by to help you stay calm or give you a boost (or both). Don’t lean or stretch; no light show is worth the trip stories that last longer than the lights themselves.
The weather has a major effect. Don’t go on the roofs that are slippery and windy. Wait for a cold but dry day. When you have to deal with icy cables, a nice pair of work gloves will protect your hands and your mood.
Timers are great because you can set your lights to come on at nightfall and go out at bedtime. You won’t have to run outside in the middle of the night. Your utility bill (and the sleep of your neighbors) will stay in terrific shape.
Be smart inside: don’t put lights near things that could catch fire, such drapes and dry garlands. For a warm but safe glow, stick to window frames, mantles, and railings. And sure, it’s important to have a fire extinguisher nearby over the holidays.
Make memories and share the delight, no matter how big or small you want to go. Take a picture of the scene, whether you’re detailing every edge or going crazy with inflatable snowmen. When you pack up, take your time wrapping the strands. This will make your December start stress-free, and the only thing you’ll have to untangle is your excitement for another glittering season.