How To Become The Envy Of The Neighborhood With An Amazing Plano Christmas Lights Display

By Janet Fisher


Let's face it. Holiday decorations aren't just for your family's enjoyment. In many neighborhoods there is an intense, if unspoken, rivalry for the most effective and striking displays. Some homeowners go for the elegant, understated design, while others string lights from every bush and tree. If you want to amaze your neighbors this year, experts have some tips to make your outdoor Plano Christmas lights display the envy of the neighborhood.

Not everyone is a professional designer. You don't even have to be creative though when you have a computer and the time to look at award winning designs. You probably have a budget for this competition, and you need to keep it in mind. You also need to consider your home's style and size. A really effective display will complement your exterior, not fight with it.

The display you plan should complement the style of house to get the most effect. Victorian homes, for example, can usually handle as many lights as you are able to string. Double stringing architectural features, to make them stand out, can be effective. A simpler, ranch style home needs a simpler design. Lighting the roof line, walkways, and fencing is often plenty.

Once you have your design down, you need to check all your strings. If there is any fraying, you should replace the string instead of trying to repair it. Where you place the power source is important. You'll need an extension cord that can withstand the weather and blends in with the house. You will probably need a ladder as well. It is a better idea to work with a helper. Not only is this more convenient, it's safer.

Decide which tools you're going to need and gather them all together before you climb the ladder. This is a much better idea than climbing down from the ladder every time you need a tool you left in the garage. Metal fasteners work great when it comes to holding your strings securely. Install them before you start stringing.

Once you have examined and tested everything, it's time to string the lighting. Starting at the main power source is the best way to begin. There's no point in trying to haul all the strings up the ladder at one time. That never works, and you just waste time. You need to hang one at a time, ask your assistant for the next, connect them, and keep going. Connecting more than three strands however may result in a power outage or worse.

It's a great idea to have family members on the ground telling you whether or not the lighting is even. If you are still on the ladder when they decide to do a light test though, be careful. Columns, railings, and fences come next and are usually the easy part of the job.

Once you have completed your display, it is time to turn on the lights. If you have followed your design faithfully, the results will be impressive. Your neighbors will probably be peeking out their windows taking notes.




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