DIY Project: Hang String Lights on Your Deck

String lights are made for lovely outdoor summer nights and sweet gatherings, and now that summer is here, it's time to get up and hang those string lights.

There is no one way to hang string lights; it all depends on the type of string lights and what you are using them for. In this blog, I will walk you through the steps of hanging string lights on your deck.

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Materials You Will Need

The tools that you will need for this fun project are:

Furring stripboard (2” x 2” x 8’).
Galvanized wood screws.
Cup hooks (1-1/4"" or something similar).
Electric drill.
Carpenter's level.
Outdoor string lights.

Steps to Hang Patio Lights on Your Deck

Hanging string lights on a deck is an easy DIY project that almost anyone can do. However, if you follow the steps below, you will save some time and effort.

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Step 1: Determine How Many Posts Are Needed

Draw a quick, simple sketch of your deck and label it. Having the sketch in front of you will help you assess how many string lights or patio lights you will need to cover the space properly.

Photo from shutterstock

Step 2: Paint or stain the posts to match the deck

After installing the posts, paint them to match the color of your deck to have a uniform color.

Photo from shutterstock

Step 3: Dip Hooks in Liquid Plastic

Before installing the hooks, it's better to dip them in liquid plastic and leave them for 48 hours. The plastic will protect the hooks from rust and increase their durability and resistance to weather conditions.

Step 4: Screw a hook into the top of each post

After 48 hours, take the now-cured hooks and screw one at the top of each post.

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Step 5: Attach the posts to the railing at the corners of the deck

In this step, you need to make sure that the posts are secured to the deck. To do that, place the post at one corner of the deck, then drill a screw into either side of the bracket. (Check the picture for a demonstration).

Photo from shutterstock

Step 6: Hang the lights from each post

To hang the outdoor string lights, start with the area that is closer to the power source, and from there, follow the pattern that you designed when you made the sketch.

Photo from shutterstock

Step 7: Plug Lights into a GFCI

The last step in this DIY project is to ensure your safety and that of your family. In order to do that, plug the string light into a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) which is an outlet designed to protect you from electrical shock by shutting off when it detects a change in the amount of electricity.

Photo from shutterstock

Conclusion

Decorating your deck for the summer using string lights is an easy home project. Prepare the tools and gather your materials; do an on paper plan; dip the hooks in liquid plastic for extra protection; then drill them; attach the posts to the deck railing; hang your string lights; and finally, connect the string lights to a GFCI. For a fabulous collection of outdoor patio lights and string lights, visit our Ollny’s store.