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

3. Neglecting basic safety precautions

Cutting corners and rushing to get back inside to enjoy eggnog with your family may seem like a good idea, but not if it ends with a trip to the emergency room. Use common sense when installing your Christmas lights and follow instructions on power tools and other equipment.

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—usecords that are rated for outdoor use. 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!

Are you missing a few hardware items before getting started on this year's light display? Stop by Gabriel Building Supply in Amite and Ponchatoula for all your hardware needs to help make installing your Christmas lights easy this season!