DIY Christmas Lighting Made Easy!
With Christmas just around the corner, here are some simple DIY tips to help you tackle your outdoor lighting projects. Hanging Christmas lights can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! There are three essentials that make achieving the perfect look straightforward. Let’s break them down: LED C9 bulbs, socket cord, and clips. That’s all it takes! We’ll dive into each of these essentials to guide you in creating a stunning display this season.
- Select your favorite C9 bulb
- Pick the right clip
- Determine the right amount of cord
In each one of these sections we will provide information on the product as well as the installation process.
1. Selecting Your LED Bulbs
LED Christmas lights have come a long way with improved color, durability, and lifespan. At Light On A House, we believe in top quality, so our bulbs surpass industry standards in both appearance and endurance. In this section, we’ll cover the advantages of LEDs and why they’re a great choice for outdoor displays.
Why Choose LEDs Over Incandescent Bulbs?
LEDs are nearly unbreakable, cool to the touch, and exceptionally bright. Early LEDs lacked brightness and color accuracy, but with today’s SMD (surface-mounted device) technology, LEDs are now more vibrant and energy-efficient. This setup reduces power usage by optimizing the light’s output, so every lumen shines brilliantly.
Color Options
Light On A House offers a range of colors to let you create your perfect combination. Some popular pairings include:
- Candy Cane (Warm or Cool White with Red)
- Frozen (Cool White and Blue)
- Traditional (Warm White, Red, Green)
You can also try patterns, like alternating red and white for a “candy cane” effect or doubling colors for a unique look. And if you’re going for classic elegance, Warm White is always a favorite.
Finish Options
There are three primary finishes for C9 bulbs: Faceted, Smooth, and Frosted. Faceted bulbs, with their “diamond” cut effect, are a customer favorite. Smooth bulbs offer a brighter, more modern look, while frosted bulbs evoke nostalgia with a soft, warm glow. Any choice will give you a gorgeous display.
2. Choosing the Right Clips
A reliable clip is essential to avoid frustration from sagging or fallen lights mid-season. Here’s a quick breakdown of clip types for different areas:
- Roofline Clips (Smart Clips): These UV-resistant clips withstand sun damage and secure each bulb in the same direction, keeping your lights straight and evenly spaced.
- Landscape Stakes: Quick stakes, ideal for securing lights along flower beds, sidewalks, and driveways, provide a stable hold and can be easily removed without damage.
- Ridgeline Clip: For securing lights along roof peaks, ridge clips eliminate the need for damaging staples or glue by attaching securely to both sides of the ridge.
The second stage we recommend for lighting is the landscape. When it comes to securing lights along flowerbeds, sidewalks, and driveways, stakes have become the preferred choice, as they help keep lights aligned and steady. Our 7.5" quick stakes are designed for durability and fast installation. Their three-prong design allows for a secure hold, making it easy to attach lights firmly while also allowing for easy bulb removal. These stakes are tough enough to penetrate hard, compacted soils—perfect for North Texas dirt—and long enough to secure lights in looser soils. Built to last, they’re a reliable solution for lighting around your landscape season after season.
Illuminate your roof’s unique architectural details by adding lights along the ridgeline. Many homes have beautiful design features that go unnoticed at night without lighting the ridge cap and roof hips. For this, we recommend using a ridge clip—the only clip you’ll need for the job. Traditionally, attaching lights to the roof involved staples or hot glue, often damaging the shingles. However, the ridge clip’s “saddle” design attaches securely to both sides of the ridge, preventing damage. With three notches (10”, 12”, and metric), this clip is compatible with 99% of composite shingles, making it a versatile and reliable choice.
With bright LED bulbs, you can easily create a stunning lighting display across your roofline, landscape, and ridgeline. Using the right clips ensures your lights are securely and durably attached for a season-long shine.
Choosing the Right Amount of Socket Cord
The socket cord is often overlooked, but it’s essential for a professional setup. Using commercial-grade LED bulbs and socket cords, you can tailor your lights to fit your home perfectly. Just follow these three steps:
1. Select Your Bulb Spacing: Our socket cords come in 6” and 12” spacing, with 12” being the most popular choice. For an extra-bright display, some opt for 6” spacing, while the 12” spacing provides a balanced look that appears closer as you step back from the house.
2. Determine the Cord Length Needed: To measure for your project, simply walk along your roofline and multiply the number of steps by three for a quick estimate. Choose from our socket cord sizes (25’, 100’, 500’, and 1000’) to cover your entire setup.
3. Attach and Install: Attach bulbs and clips to the cord, then trim the cord to your desired length, and attach the male and female connectors—no electrician required! For additional guidance, check out our step-by-step video on "How to Customize Your Christmas Lights."
With these simple steps, you can achieve a professional-quality lighting display that’s uniquely customized to your home.
C9 LED bulbs have become the go-to choice for holiday lighting, providing a beautiful and bright display. With commercial-grade products and customizable cord lengths, you can create a professional-quality look that fills your home with holiday cheer.
After perfecting your outdoor lights, turn your focus indoors to make your home just as festive. Choose our themed DIY Kits for an easy, coordinated look, or explore our extensive collection of Christmas decor to craft your own unique style. With our warehouse full of holiday items, we have everything you need. Combine textured tree ribbons with an array of flowers, sprays, and ornaments for a designer finish that’s uniquely yours.
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