How to Put Up Outdoor Christmas Lights

Everyone loves Christmas lights! We all have memories of travelling around our neighbourhoods, seeing who has the best lights up or even going further afield to check out a local Christmas light display. If you feel in the spirit and want to add some festive illuminations to your home, here's how to put up outdoor Christmas lights.

Equipment

Here's a list of everything you'll need.

• Outdoor Christmas lights
• Gutter hooks/outdoor decorating clips
• Ladders
• Rechargeable batteries
• Battery charger
• Weatherproof extension lead (If you're not using battery operated lights)
• Tape measure

Step by step

1. Before you decide where you're going to hang your Christmas lights, there's a few things you need to check. First check that the lights actually work. Plug them in and see if any of the lights are faulty so you can replace them if needed. Next, if you're using Christmas lights that are operated by your main electricity supply, make sure your weatherproof extension lead is long enough from the socket to where you plan on hanging the lights. If you're using battery operated lights, make sure to use rechargeable ones as they last longer than standard batteries.
   
   
2. Now, everything has been checked, it's time to think about how and where you're going to hang your lights. Decide on the display you have in mind and where each light should be. Once you've figured this out, it's time to grab the ladders.
   
   
3. Using the ladders securely & safely, attach the gutter hooks or decorating clips to the edge of your guttering system, making sure you space them out evenly.
   
   
4. Once the hooks or clips are up, get your lights and clip one piece of cable in at a time, but not too taut that the extension lead is being pulled out of the socket.
   
   
5. When all your lights are up, take a step back and check your work. Look for any uneven spacing or loose hanging cables that need fixing.
   
   
6. As soon as everything is checked, all that's left is the big reveal! It's time to switch the lights on and give yourself a huge pat on the back! You've done it!

Fancy a bit extra?

When decorating the outside of your house for Christmas, why stop at lights?

You can add all kinds of outdoor decor such as door wreaths, light up reindeers or snowflakes, a blow up Santa, ornaments and so much more. Go as little or as large as you want - tis the season to be jolly after all!

If you need any equipment to get your home ready for the festive season, take a look at our Get Christmas Ready page to find all you need.