1. Measure Before You Shop
Calculate how many linear feet of string you need by measuring around windows and doors and along the roofline—wherever you’re running lights. Once you’ve tallied the linear feet, check the lighting’s package for the length. Determine the distance between the outdoor socket and where the run of lights starts, and use an appropriate length of outdoor-rated extension cord to avoid having lights go straight to the socket.
2. Choose the Right Bulb
If you like the look of warm white lights with a slight yellow cast, incandescent bulbs are your best bet, especially for smaller jobs, like lighting a wreath or a garland. They’re generally less expensive than LEDs, but they have a shorter life span and consume 80 percent more energy. For bigger jobs, go with more-efficient LEDs. They’re available in a wide range of styles, from minis and colorful retro-style C7s to larger globes. The quality of the light varies with LEDs, so look for wording such as “soft white” or “classic white” on the packaging to avoid bulbs with a cool blue undertone.
3. Consider Spacing
The distance between individual lights is all over the map. Take a tape measure with you to determine the spacing between lights, and buy sets that come with less than 12 inches between bulbs. Typically, larger bulbs, like chunky C7s or C9s for the roof, look best when the lights are between 6 and 10 inches apart. Smaller lights or minis should be spaced more tightly to avoid having to wrap a mailbox post or a column multiple times.
4. Don’t Forget the Trees
For conifers, go with this rule of thumb: 100 lights per every vertical foot of tree. And opt for larger bulbs that won’t get lost when viewed from the street. For deciduous trees, minis work fine, and you can make quick work of wide trunks with a net of lights. But if the tree is less than 4 feet in circumference, stick with string lights. For shrubs, use mini lights with 25 to 50 lights per set on a green cord—they’ll blend in much better than netted lights. Tuck them into shrubs in a random pattern, keeping the strings 4 to 6 inches apart. And wrapping bulbs running between bushes with black electrical tape saves you from having to buy blackout caps.
5. Power Up—Carefully
LEDs are often spaced closer together than incandescents, and you can string more of them end to end. For that reason, it’s a good idea to limit incandescent mini bulbs to 10 strings of 50 lights for one plug. With LEDs, you can go up to nearly 50 strings, each with 70 lights. Don’t assume all lights are designed for outdoor use; wrap all connections between strings with electrical tape to keep moisture out. Always plug lights into a covered outlet protected with a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)—running cords from inside the house through a window or a mail slot is a fire hazard.
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As a seasoned expert in holiday lighting, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and practical experience to guide you through the intricate process of creating a stunning holiday display. I have adorned countless homes and landscapes with festive lights, ensuring not only aesthetic appeal but also safety and efficiency in installation. My expertise extends to various aspects, from measuring the perfect length of string lights to selecting the most suitable bulbs and understanding optimal spacing for a visually appealing result.
Let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the provided article:
1. Measuring Before You Shop:
- Importance: Precise measurement is crucial to avoid shortages or excess when decorating. It ensures an even distribution of lights and a professional look.
- Method: Measure linear feet around windows, doors, and rooflines. Check the lighting package for length information. Consider the distance to the outdoor socket and use an appropriate extension cord.
2. Choosing the Right Bulb:
- Incandescent vs. LED: Incandescent bulbs offer warm light but have a shorter lifespan and consume more energy. LEDs are more efficient for larger projects and come in various styles. Look for "soft white" or "classic white" for a pleasing hue.
3. Considering Spacing:
- Guidelines: Use a tape measure to determine spacing between lights. Larger bulbs look best with 6 to 10 inches between them. Smaller lights should be spaced more tightly. Consider the type of lights and the object you're decorating.
4. Don’t Forget the Trees:
- Conifers: Use 100 lights per vertical foot. Opt for larger bulbs for visibility.
- Deciduous Trees: Minis work well, and nets are efficient for wide trunks. Use string lights for smaller trees.
- Shrubs: Use mini lights with 25 to 50 lights per set on a green cord, spacing them 4 to 6 inches apart. Black electrical tape can secure connections.
5. Power Up—Carefully:
- LEDs vs. Incandescents: LEDs can be spaced closer and strung end to end. Limit incandescent mini bulbs to 10 strings for one plug. LEDs can go up to nearly 50 strings.
- Outdoor Safety: Use electrical tape to secure connections, and always plug lights into a covered outlet with a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for safety.
By following these expert tips, you'll not only enhance the visual appeal of your holiday lighting but also ensure a safe and efficient installation that will impress all who behold it.
