How to Install Lighting in a Patio Gazebo?

Most people that have gazebos in their yard only use them during the day because they do not have lights. Adding lights can make your gazebo very sensual and attractive at night. There are many types of lights that can be put on your gazebo to give it some decoration. They will let you stay outside on cool summer nights and can last for a long time.

You should start by finding a power source and running an extension cord to your gazebo. It is especially helpful to have an outlet outdoors. Some people even have an electrical outlet in their gazebo. Make sure that your extension cords do not run near sidewalks, so you do not risk tripping. If an electrical cord is not possible, you can get battery operated strings of lights.

You should do whatever you can to use minimal extension cords. This can be done with a power strip. You can try to put an extension cord going up each column so every string of lights has its own source of power. You must measure the area that you want to have covered with lighting. You should then put in hooks at the very top of every column. The hooks should be on the inside of the gazebo and at the center tip. The hooks should be able to screw right into wood.

You also must figure out if you want lighting on the inside or outside of your gazebo, or both. Lights on the inside are usually to help see at night, while outside lights are normally for decoration. The hooks that will hold these lights up should be twisted with a set of pliers. The light strings should be wound around each column and attached to the hook that is at the top. The remaining lights on the string can be brought up to the center hook. You need to make sure that these are fastened well so they do not fall down.

Keep winding light strings onto the columns until they are all outlined fully. Then, you can plug in all the lights to make sure that they are covering all open areas.