String lights are one of the simplest ways to light a patio, but a strand pulled tight between two weak points sags, swings and fails. This guide gives an overview of the steps. It does not replace the instructions that come with your lights, poles and hardware, which you should follow in every detail.

Before You Start

  • Read the light maker’s instructions, including how many strands can be linked and whether the set is rated for outdoor or wet locations.
  • Plan where power comes from: a GFCI-protected outdoor outlet for plug-in lights, or a sunny spot for a solar panel within reach of its lead.
  • Check HOA, rental or building rules before drilling into siding, fascia or a deck.
  • If you will dig post holes or drive long stakes, call 811 a few days ahead so buried utilities can be marked.

1. Plan the Layout

Sketch the patio and mark where the strands will run: a straight line, a zigzag, or spokes from a center point. Measure each run and add slack for a gentle drape and for the drop to the outlet or panel. Keep lights well away from grills, fire pits, patio heaters and anything else that produces heat or flame.

2. Choose Anchor Points

Each end of a run needs a solid anchor: screw hooks or eye screws driven into solid framing on the house, a sturdy post, or a mature tree with a strap rather than a screw. Gutters, downspouts, thin trim and vinyl siding on its own are not built to carry a strand under tension.

Where there is nothing to anchor to, use string light poles. Kits stake into soil, bolt to a deck or concrete, or stand in a weighted base. Follow the pole maker’s spacing and height guidance; several makers give 8 to 15 feet between poles.

3. Add a Guide Wire for Long Spans

For long or heavy runs, string a steel guide wire between anchors first, tighten it with a turnbuckle, then clip or zip-tie the lights to the wire. The wire carries the weight and the light cord does not have to. Many commercial-style strands have a built-in hanging loop at each socket for this.

4. Hang and Connect the Lights

Hang the lights with a gentle drape rather than pulling them tight. Do not staple or nail through the cord. Link strands only up to the maker’s limit, keep plugs and connectors off the ground and out of standing water, and use an outdoor-rated extension cord if you need one. For solar sets, aim the panel at the sun and switch it on before first use.

5. Check and Maintain

Look over hooks, wire and poles after the first few days and after storms. Tighten anything that has loosened and replace damaged bulbs or cords. Take lights down, or at least lower them, before high wind, and consider storing them for winter if your area gets heavy snow or ice.

FAQ

How do I hang string lights without trees or walls?

Use string light poles. Choose a base that suits your ground: fork stakes for soil, bolt-down plates for concrete or decks, or weighted bases where you cannot drill.

How high should patio string lights hang?

High enough that people can walk under them comfortably, which is why many poles are about 10 feet tall. Follow the light and pole makers’ guidance.

Can I leave string lights up all year?

Some makers say their sets can stay up. Inspect them each season and take them down before severe weather.

Need lights or poles? See our guides to Best Outdoor String Lights and Best Solar Pathway Lights, or browse the Outdoor Lighting category.