5 Mistakes People Make When Hanging Christmas Lights

The holidays are a wonderful time of year, but they can also be dangerous when it comes to hanging Christmas lights. See this list of the most common mistakes people make when installing light displays to ensure you and your family have a safe and joyous holiday season!

1. Not planning ahead

Instead of taking all your lights out of their storage boxes and immediately throwing them up on your roof, reserve a few moments to plan out your display beforehand. Take a walk around your property to note things like access to power and the ability to attach lights in their desired location. Think about whether you want to use automatic timers for the lights, and set a date to take them down after the holidays are over.

2. Forgetting to check equipment

You probably know to check individual light strands to make sure they work, but what about the extension cords, outlets, and power tools you plan to use as well? A multimeter tool can help test the voltage of outlets and power strips to determine if the issue lies with your lights or the electrical source.

If you find any of your hardware to be subpar, our team at Gabriel Building Supply is here for you. For over 90 years, we've been helping homeowners and DIYers in southeast Louisiana get their homes in tip-top shape not just for the holidays, but all year round!

3. Neglecting basic safety precautions

Rushing to get your Christmas lights up so you can enjoy eggnog with your family might seem tempting, but it’s not worth risking a trip to the emergency room. Take your time and use common sense when setting up your lights. Always follow the instructions for power tools and other equipment. Make sure your ladder is sturdy, free from cracks, rot, or loose joints, and fully extended with all locks engaged. If it’s time for a new ladder, browse our selection.

4. Misusing electrical equipment

Electrocution and home fires are the risks you take when you misuse electrical equipment. All extension cords aren't created equal—be sure to use cords that are rated for outdoor use. The Basic-Power 20ft outdoor cord is our personal favorite. Never plug in more than three strands of lights into one extension cord, and make sure the outlet you use can handle the amount of wattage you plan to plug into it. Also, protect extension cord connections from water damage by wrapping them in a plastic bag or lifting them off the ground.

5. Not admiring the handiwork!

With proper planning, installing Christmas lights can be one of the most satisfying activities of the holiday season. Think about the joy your display will bring to friends and family who will visit, and plan a family walk once your lights are installed so that they can marvel at your work!

Missing a few hardware items for this year's light display? Visit Gabriel Building Supply in Amite and Ponchatoula for all your hardware needs, or shop online with us!