If you’re like most people, the holidays are a time of celebration with family and friends that involves decorating your home in traditional and festive displays. And for many of us, the centerpiece of our outdoor decorations is the tall tree standing proudly in front of our homes.
But how do you make sure your tree looks amazing when it’s so high up? By stringing lights around it! In this blog post, we’ll give you step-by-step instructions on how to put lights on a tall tree outdoors.
You’ll learn what type of lights work best for this project, some tips for success, as well as important safety considerations to keep in mind before getting started. So let’s get illuminated—throwing a few strings over those branches can take any holiday festivities to the next level!
What Is the Easiest Way to Put Lights on an Outdoor Tree?
The easiest way to put lights on a tall outdoor tree is with a ladder. Before you begin, make sure your ladder is secure and that it reaches the top of the tree. Once you have the ladder in place, use Christmas light clips or wires to secure strings of lights around the branches.
You can start at the bottom and work your way up for convenience. If you’re using a long strand of LED lights, be sure to leave some slack at each branch so they don’t pull too tightly when hung. When finished, unplug the lights before descending from the ladder to ensure safety.
Another option for lighting an outdoor tree is using an extension pole with Christmas light clips attached to its end. With this option, you don’t have to worry about setting up a ladder. However, hanging lights with an extension pole can be difficult and time-consuming since the clips can’t always reach deep into tree branches.
Finally, you could also use outdoor spotlights to light your tree. Spotlights provide more of an ambient effect than string lights but are not as versatile when it comes to decorating. If you are looking for a quick way to add some light and ambiance to your outdoor space without spending too much time or effort, using spotlights may be the best choice for you. Whichever lighting method you choose, make sure that all electrical connections are safely installed before plugging in any lights.
9 Methods How to Put Lights on a Tall Tree Outdoors
1. Use an Extendable Ladder
If you have an extendable ladder, you can use it to put lights on a tall tree outdoors. Simply extend the ladder to the desired height and then climb up to string the lights around the tree. Be sure to use caution when climbing up and down the ladder.
Make sure to secure the ladder at both steps and if possible, have someone spot you while you are on the ladder. If you do not have an extendable ladder, there are other options available. Though it is important to use caution when using a ladder, there are some alternatives that can be used for putting lights on tall trees.
2. Use a Stepladder
If you don’t have an extendable ladder, you can use a stepladder instead. Place the stepladder next to the tree and then climb up to string the lights around the tree. As with an extendable ladder, be sure to use caution when climbing up and down the stepladder.
Make sure the stepladder is on a flat, even surface for stability, and always have someone hold the ladder in place when you are climbing up or down. Once you have finished stringing the lights, use the stepladder to check that all of your strands are securely in place.
If you need to make any adjustments, you can do so from the stepladder. When using a stepladder to put up Christmas lights on a tall tree outdoors, be sure to use a secure surface and have someone hold the ladder in place at all times.
3. Use a Telescoping Pole
Another option for putting lights on a tall tree outdoors is to use a telescoping pole. These poles typically have a hook or other attachment on the end that can be used to hang lights from. Simply extend the pole to the desired height and then hook the lights onto the tree.
Make sure to use a safe pole that is rated for the purpose and weight. When using a telescoping pole, be sure not to extend it too far and cause it to become unbalanced. It is also important to make sure the pole is secure and stable before putting any lights on it.
The pole may also include a winch or other mechanism to help you raise and lower the lights. Be sure to use the appropriate safety precautions when operating any type of winch system. After the lights are in place, make sure to secure them so they do not come down and cause injury or damage.
4. Use a Long-Handled Tool
If you have a long-handled tool such as a rake or broom, you can use it to put lights on a tall tree outdoors. Simply place the tool next to the tree and then reach up with it to string the lights around the tree. Be careful not to hit anyone with the tool while you’re reaching up.
You may also want to have someone help spot you as you work. Once the lights are in place, plug them into an outdoor electrical outlet or an extension cord that is securely connected to an indoor outlet.
Be sure the lights are turned off when you plug them in, as this will help prevent any accidental electrical shocks. You should also make sure the lights don’t come in contact with any damp surfaces or water, as this can create a dangerous situation.
5. Have Someone Hold the Ladder
If you’re using an extendable ladder or stepladder, you can have someone hold it steady while you climb up to put lights on the tree. This will help to prevent the ladder from tipping over while you’re climbing it.
Be sure to have someone stand far enough back from the ladder that they can’t be injured in case it tips over. Additionally, when setting up the ladder, do so on a flat and level surface to reduce the risk of tipping. If you’re using a taller ladder, make sure it is securely placed so that it doesn’t move while you are up on it.
6. Tie the Ladder off
Another way to prevent an extendable ladder or stepladder from tipping over is to tie it off at the top before climbing it. This will help to keep it steady while you’re putting up lights. To do this, you will need a rope or twine and two sturdy branches. Wrap the rope around both of the branches and then securely tie it off. Next, hook the ladder onto the rope and adjust it to the desired height. This will help prevent the ladder from tipping over while you access the higher branches of your tall tree.
7. Wear Gloves
When putting up outdoor lights, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and electrical wires. Gloves will also help to keep your hands clean while you’re working with dirty or muddy light strands. Additionally, gloves can give you a better grip on slippery items like tree branches and nails.
8. Watch for Power Lines
Be sure to watch for overhead power lines when putting up outdoor lights. If possible, try to avoid stringing lights across any power lines as this could create a fire hazard. If you must string lights across power lines, be sure to do so carefully and avoid touching any live wires with your bare skin. Additionally, make sure to keep the lights at least 10 feet away from any power lines at all times.
9. Stay Safe
Finally, be sure to stay safe at all times when putting up outdoor lights. Always use caution when climbing ladders and telescoping poles. Wear protective gear, such as safety glasses and heavy-duty gloves, when handling wires or electrical components.
Make sure the lights you use are rated for outdoor use and inspect all your lights periodically for frayed wires or other potential hazards. Also be sure to turn off the power at the circuit breaker before installing outdoor lights. Following these safety measures can help ensure a safe and successful holiday season filled with beautiful outdoor lighting displays.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to put lights on a tall tree outdoors, it’s time for you to determine the best way for your specific situation. That could mean buying extra-long extension cords, using professional installation services, or utilizing battery-powered lights to avoid the need for additional power sources.
Either way, outside lighting is an essential part of any holiday celebration and can add some much-needed winter glow during the shorter days. If you have small children or pets, be sure to take extra precautionary measures when installing the lights so they remain safe at all times.