Let’s be honest: getting last year’s holiday lights untangled might be a sport in and of itself. Putting them up on your home or business? That’s a whole separate problem that you should plan for, have a nice sense of humor, and maybe make a few additional trips to the store before you really get started. Click for source for more information!
Start by looking at the outside of your home or store. Think about using roof edges, handrails, trees, and doorways as your stage. Get out the measuring tape and check how long you need it to be. Don’t forget to find those all-important outlets. Outdoor extension cords may not look great, but trust us, they’re the unsung heroes.
You may get creative with color now! Soft white bulbs give off the warm, comfortable glow that is so typical of December. Red and green combinations, on the other hand, give off festive sentiments right away. If you like a little additional sparkle, color-changing LEDs may make your holiday display really stand out. Just don’t go crazy or you might end up with lights that are brighter than the airport’s runway lights.
Plastic clips are the best way to go; don’t bother with nails and staples. They’ll keep your lights in a straight line, won’t hurt your house, and are easy to take down when it’s time to clean up after the holidays. In January, your siding and shingles will be grateful.
Get some scrap paper and a pencil and write out your light show. Decide where to put everything, how many strands you need, and where to plug it all in. Always check your lights first. There’s nothing worse than finishing your work of art only to realize that one part is dead.
Be careful with ladders! Don’t try to rush or stretch, and don’t play tricks in front of the neighbors. It’s usually a good idea to have someone with you for safety or just for fun.
You can’t win against icy wind and numb fingertips, so just let the weather do what it wants. Try to pick a day that is clear and not too hot, and wear gloves to keep your hands warm and flexible.
Your hidden weapon is your timer. After dark, make your display glow and turn it off when you’re done for the night. You’ll save money on your power bill and avoid having to run outdoors at night. Plus, your neighbors won’t have to wonder why your house is still blazing at 3 a.m.
If you’re lighting up indoors, be mindful about where you put it. Keep strands away from anything that can catch fire, such curtains, paper decorations, and other things. Instead, put some shine on the railings, windowsills, and fireplace mantels. It may not be fun, but it’s smart to have a fire extinguisher on hand.
The actual magic of your lights is in the fun (and laughter) they bring, whether you go all out or keep it modest. Take a picture of what you’ve made before you put it away so you can remember it next year. And when it’s time to put everything away, be sure to gently wound up those cords and put them away neatly. Your future self will be very thankful for a smooth start to the day!