Installing your Christmas lights and outdoor decorations doesn’t need to be complicated – keep it simple with our foolproof guide! As the festive season approaches, it’s time to transform your outdoor space into a dazzling celebration of the Christmas spirit. With some thoughtful planning and a dash of creativity, you can make your home the talk of the street.
1. Craft your Christmas lights design brief
Firstly, ask yourself, how festive do you want to go? Do you dream of recreating the North Pole, or are you more inclined to take an understated approach, adding just a touch of Christmas cheer?
Think about:
- Your project budget
- When you will install your Christmas light display
- Whether you have existing lights and decorations to reuse
- Creating a shortlist of new lights, decorations and any other items you may need.
Remember, starting small and gradually building your holiday collection over the years is perfectly acceptable! For year-round flair, choose integrated lighting within your ModularWalls fence or wall!
2. Upgrade your Christmas light arsenal
After reviewing your existing Christmas light gear, you may wish to upgrade certain items. For easier, safer and more efficient outdoor decorations, consider the following:
- LED or extra low voltage lights offer added safety and energy efficiency. (They consume up to 70% less energy than traditional bulbs!)
- Alternatively, solar-powered lighting is a cost-effective, eco-friendly option.
- For tech enthusiasts, consider smart lights that can be controlled via an app for ultimate convenience!
- Installing a weatherproof timer is a smart decision, allowing your lights to shine while conserving energy by automatically switching off when you head to bed.
- Choose the right attachment style: instead of a staple gun (which can permanently damage the exterior of your home), we recommend reusable clips or gutter hooks for securing your lights.
- An outdoor cord safe-box keeps plugs and leads safe from the elements, minimising any safety risks. Simply store your plugs inside, secure the lid, and mount it where it’s safe from water and debris.
3. Get creative: lighting ideas to inspire
Now’s the time to let your imagination run wild – any aspect of your front yard could be a Christmas light canvas (as long as it’s safe!). Not to mention, due to their sturdy, reliable nature, ModularWalls solutions offer the perfect backdrop for stylish Christmas light displays!
Other Christmas light designs could include:
- Lighting up your front walkway with solar path lights
- Add Christmas charm by draping string lights along stair railings.
- Enhance the beauty of trees by wrapping lights artfully from the bottom to the top.
- Spell out holiday greetings on the lawn using illuminated plastic letters.
- Drape strings of lights creatively over bushes or along your roofline.
- Outline your front doors, windows, or garage with glowing outlines to draw attention.
- Get creative with colour combinations, like blue and green or red and white.
- Consider unique lighting effects, such as icicles or twinkle lights.
4. Remember, safety first: installation considerations
Safety should always be your priority. As with any electrical work, be cautious, considered and careful.
- Identify and avoid potential hazards
- Ensure that the surfaces you’re adorning with lights are sturdy and secure
- Keep power cords and sockets out of children’s reach.
For more outdoor electrical safety tips, check out this handy guide from Energy Safe Victoria.
Before installation day, ensure you’ve equipped yourself for success with the following:
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Earmuffs and masks (if using power tools)
5. Don’t forget the installation day essentials
For a smooth, successful installation:
- Check all lights and bulbs to ensure they’re in good condition (including leads, plugs, and holders).
- If you plan to use powerboards, ensure they meet Australian safety standards for outdoor use.
- If you’re leaving lights on overnight, double-check that everything is secure for peace of mind while you sleep.
When using ladders, always place them on stable, level ground and maintain three points of contact for balance.
6. Time to add those finishing touches
Complete your Christmas transformation with a festive doormat. Dial up the festive flavour with DIY decorations like a wreath. Alternatively, Christmas inflatables are a quick, easy way to decorate your outdoor area with minimum fuss and maximum effect. Don’t forget to decorate your outdoor furniture and set your Christmas table to complement your lights! Check out our top Christmas table setting ideas here.
May your space be merry and bright!
Let your creativity shine this holiday season. With thoughtful planning and a sprinkle of festive magic, your outdoor space can become a beautiful showcase that brings joy to your family and lights up your neighbourhood. Happy decorating!
For more Christmas and holiday inspiration, discover our Christmas lunch ideas and our Christmas table setting ideas!
