How to Hang Outdoor String Lights on Eavestrough Like a Pro

Hanging outdoor string lights on eavestrough is easiest and safest using adjustable, non-penetrating clips designed specifically for gutters—this method protects your home’s exterior while ensuring a secure, professional-looking installation. Always measure spacing, check bulb weight limits, and plan your power source path to avoid overloading circuits and maintain a clean, balanced aesthetic all season long.

Key Takeaways

• Plan your layout first: Measure and mark spacing for even light distribution.
• Use gutter clips: Opt for no-damage, adjustable clips made for eavestroughs.
• Check bulb spacing: Match clip placement to string light socket intervals.
• Secure connections: Weatherproof all plug connections with covers or tape.
• Test before finalizing: Power on lights to check alignment and brightness.
• Trim excess cord: Use zip ties to tidy up loose ends safely.

Why Hanging String Lights on Eavestroughs Is a Game-Changer

There’s something magical about the soft glow of outdoor string lights. They turn a simple backyard into a cozy retreat, perfect for summer barbecues, quiet evenings, or even holiday celebrations. I remember the first time I strung lights across my patio—it was like flipping a switch on ambiance. Suddenly, my outdoor space felt warm, inviting, and just a little bit whimsical. If you’re looking to create that same vibe, hanging string lights on your eavestrough might be the easiest way to elevate your outdoor decor.

But let’s be honest: it’s not always as simple as it looks. I’ve had my fair share of tangled cords, sagging lights, and even a few close calls with the gutter. Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to success isn’t just buying the right lights—it’s how you hang them. And if you’re working with eavestroughs (the Canadian spelling, but you’ll often see “gutters” used interchangeably), you’ve got a sturdy, accessible surface to work with. With the right tools, techniques, and a little patience, you can hang your lights like a pro—no contractor needed.

Planning Your String Light Layout

Before you even pick up a ladder, take a moment to plan. A little prep work now will save you time, money, and frustration later. Think of this step as the blueprint for your lighting project.

Measure Your Space

Grab a tape measure and jot down the total length of your eavestrough where you want to hang the lights. This helps you buy the right number of strands. For example, if your front porch eavestrough is 20 feet long and you want to wrap it around a corner, add a few extra feet for overlap. I usually add 10–15% more than my measured length to account for curves or slight miscalculations.

Also, consider the distance from your power source. Most outdoor string lights come with 10–15 feet of cord, but if your outlet is far away, you might need an extension cord or a second outlet installed. I learned this the hard way when I bought a 25-foot strand, only to realize it was 5 feet too short to reach the outlet. A simple extension cord fixed the issue, but it’s better to avoid that hassle upfront.

Decide on Your Lighting Pattern

How do you want the lights to look? A few popular options:

• Straight run: Lights follow the eavestrough line, ideal for porches, patios, or rooflines.
• Zigzag pattern: Lights crisscross between two points (like from the eavestrough to a tree or fence post), great for larger spaces.
• Canopy style: Multiple strands hung parallel, creating a “ceiling” effect. Works well over dining areas or seating zones.

I love the zigzag look for my backyard—it adds depth and draws the eye across the yard. But for my front porch, I prefer a straight run for a clean, modern look. Your choice will depend on your space and aesthetic goals.

Check for Obstacles

Look for anything that might interfere with your lights: vents, downspouts, or overhanging branches. I once tried to hang lights along a section of eavestrough with a downspout right in the middle. It looked messy and made the lights sag. Now, I plan around these features or use them to my advantage (e.g., looping lights around the downspout for a decorative touch).

Choosing the Right Tools and Materials

Not all string lights are created equal, and the tools you use can make or break your project. Let’s break down what you’ll need—and why.

Types of Outdoor String Lights

Here’s a quick rundown of common options:

• Plug-in (AC) lights: Traditional, bright, and affordable. Great for permanent installations, but require an outdoor outlet.
• Solar-powered lights: Eco-friendly and easy to install (no cords!). But they’re dimmer and may not last all night on cloudy days.
• LED lights: Energy-efficient, durable, and available in warm or cool tones. My go-to choice—they last years and use less power.

For eavestrough installations, I recommend LED plug-in lights. They’re bright enough to be visible, and the cord gives you more flexibility with placement. Solar lights work too, but you’ll need to mount the solar panel in a sunny spot—which can be tricky on a north-facing eavestrough.

Mounting Hardware: What Works Best

Here’s where many people go wrong. Using the wrong hardware can damage your eavestrough or cause your lights to fall. Here are the best options:

• Gutter clips: These snap onto the edge of the eavestrough and have a hook for the light strand. They’re easy to install, reusable, and don’t damage the gutter. I use these 90% of the time.
• Adhesive hooks: Stick to the gutter’s surface. Quick to install, but may peel off in extreme heat or cold. Good for temporary setups.
• Screw-in hooks: More permanent, but require drilling into the gutter or fascia. I avoid these unless I’m hanging heavy lights (like Edison bulbs).
• Zip ties: A budget-friendly option. Loop them around the eavestrough and light strand. Just don’t overtighten—they can damage the gutter over time.

Pro tip: Buy clips with rubber padding. They grip better and prevent scratches. I once used bare metal clips, and they left marks on my white eavestrough. Not a good look.

Other Essentials

Don’t forget these small but crucial items:

• Extension cords (if needed): Use outdoor-rated cords with a GFCI plug for safety.
• Ladder (or scaffolding): A sturdy, adjustable ladder is a must. I use a 6-foot step ladder for most jobs, but taller roofs might need an extension ladder.
• Work gloves: Eavestroughs can be sharp. Protect your hands.
• Measuring tape and marker: For marking clip placement.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Now for the fun part: hanging the lights! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a professional-looking setup in no time.

Step 1: Prep Your Lights

Unpack your lights and lay them out on the ground. Test them first—plug them in to make sure they work. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve hung a strand only to realize a bulb was out. Also, untangle the cords. A few minutes here saves you a headache later.

Step 2: Install the Clips

Start at one end of your eavestrough. Space clips 12–18 inches apart for even weight distribution. For example, if your eavestrough is 20 feet long, you’ll need about 15–20 clips. Here’s how to install gutter clips:

1. Open the clip’s jaw and snap it onto the front lip of the eavestrough.
2. Press down firmly until it clicks into place.
3. Repeat every 12–18 inches. For corners, use a clip on each side to maintain tension.

For adhesive hooks, clean the eavestrough with rubbing alcohol first. This helps the adhesive stick better. Press the hook on for 30 seconds to ensure a strong bond.

Step 3: Hang the Lights

Now it’s time to string the lights. Here’s my method:

1. Start at the end farthest from your power source. This lets you plug in the lights as you go.
2. Hang the first bulb or socket on the first clip. Let the strand drape naturally—don’t pull it tight.
3. Work your way along the eavestrough, hooking each bulb/socket onto the clips. Keep a slight sag (about 2–3 inches between clips) to prevent tension on the cords.
4. For corners, loop the strand around the clip. This maintains the flow and prevents sharp bends that can damage the wire.

Pro tip: If you’re using multiple strands, connect them before hanging. This reduces the number of clips you’ll need and keeps the look cohesive.

Step 4: Connect to Power

Once all the lights are up, plug them into an outdoor outlet. If you’re using an extension cord, tuck it under the eavestrough or run it along the wall for a clean look. I like to use zip ties to secure the cord every few feet—it keeps everything tidy.

For solar lights, mount the solar panel in direct sunlight (south or west-facing is best). Use a clip or adhesive mount to attach it to the eavestrough or a nearby surface.

Step 5: Adjust and Test

Step back and check your work. Are the lights sagging too much? Are any clips loose? Make adjustments as needed. I usually tweak the sag by moving clips slightly closer or farther apart. Finally, test the lights at night. Look for dark spots, flickering bulbs, or uneven brightness.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with careful planning, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix the most common issues I’ve encountered.

Sagging Lights

If your lights droop between clips, you’ve got two options:

• Add more clips: Reduce the spacing to 8–10 inches. This works well for heavy bulbs (like vintage-style LEDs).
• Use a support wire: Run a thin steel wire along the eavestrough and clip the lights to it. This is my secret weapon for long runs—it keeps the lights taut without adding bulk.

I once hung a 30-foot strand with clips every 2 feet. It looked great… until a windy night. The next morning, the lights were sagging like a hammock. I added a support wire, and the problem was solved.

Clips Falling Off

This usually happens with adhesive hooks in extreme weather. To fix it:

• Switch to gutter clips. They’re more reliable in heat, cold, and rain.
• If you must use adhesive, choose a high-quality brand (like 3M) and reapply every 2–3 years.

One winter, I lost half my adhesive hooks in a snowstorm. Lesson learned: gutter clips are worth the extra cost.

Weather Damage

Outdoor lights take a beating. To protect them:

• Use weatherproof lights with an IP65 rating (dust and water-resistant).
• Store lights indoors during winter if you live in a cold climate. I leave mine up year-round, but I check the cords for cracks every spring.
• Trim overhanging branches. Falling twigs can damage bulbs or pull clips loose.

Uneven Lighting

If some bulbs are brighter than others, try these fixes:

• Replace old bulbs. LEDs dim over time.
• Check for loose connections. Wiggle the plugs to see if the lights flicker.
• Use a voltage tester to ensure the power supply is consistent.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Hanging your lights is just the beginning. With a little upkeep, they’ll last for years.

Seasonal Maintenance

Here’s my seasonal checklist:

• Spring: Inspect cords for damage, clean bulbs with a damp cloth, and tighten loose clips.
• Summer: Check for insect nests (wasps love dark spaces). Use a soft brush to remove debris.
• Fall: Trim leaves and branches that could fall on the lights. Test the system before winter.
• Winter: Clear snow gently with a broom. Avoid metal tools—they can damage the cords.

Storage Tips

If you take your lights down, store them properly:

• Wrap strands around a cardboard tube or reel to prevent tangles.
• Keep them in a dry, cool place. Moisture can corrode the wires.
• Label the boxes by location (e.g., “front porch” or “backyard”).

I once stored my lights in a damp basement. A year later, half the bulbs didn’t work. Now I keep them in sealed plastic bins with silica gel packets.

When to Replace

Most outdoor lights last 3–5 years. Replace them if:

• Bulbs flicker or burn out frequently.
• Cords are frayed or cracked.
• The color temperature looks off (e.g., warm lights turning blue).

Data Table: Recommended Products

Product	Type	Best For	Price Range
GE String Lights	LED, plug-in	Long runs, year-round use	$20–$40
Twinkle Star Gutter Clips	Plastic with rubber padding	Easy, damage-free installation	$10–$15
Brightech Solar Lights	LED, solar-powered	Sunny areas, temporary setups	$25–$50
Zip Ties (UV-resistant)	Plastic	Budget-friendly, quick install	$5–$10

Final Thoughts: Light Up Your Outdoors Like a Pro

Hanging outdoor string lights on your eavestrough isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space where you love to spend time. Whether it’s a quiet night with a book or a lively gathering with friends, the right lighting sets the mood. And with the steps I’ve shared, you can do it yourself, save money, and avoid the headaches I’ve faced over the years.

Remember: start with a plan, invest in quality hardware, and don’t rush the installation. A little extra time upfront pays off in a setup that looks professional and lasts for seasons. And if you run into a snag? Don’t panic. Every problem has a solution—and you’re now armed with the know-how to tackle it.

So grab your ladder, pick up those lights, and get to work. Your perfect outdoor oasis is just a few clips away. Happy lighting!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I hang outdoor string lights on eavestrough without damaging it?

Yes, you can safely hang outdoor string lights on eavestrough using non-invasive methods like gutter hooks, clips, or adhesive mounts designed for outdoor use. Avoid drilling or nailing to prevent leaks or structural damage.

What are the best tools to hang string lights on eavestrough?

Use specialized eavestrough clips, zip ties, or adhesive gutter hooks that grip the edge without screws. These tools are weather-resistant and make installation quick and secure.

How do I hang outdoor string lights on eavestrough if I have vinyl siding?

Opt for removable clips or magnetic hooks that won’t damage the siding. For added stability, run a thin, discreet wire or fishing line along the eavestrough and attach lights to it.

Will hanging string lights on eavestrough cause water drainage issues?

If installed correctly with proper clips, string lights won’t obstruct water flow. Ensure lights and cords are positioned above the trough’s opening to avoid blocking debris or rainwater.

How far apart should I space clips when hanging lights on eavestrough?

Space clips or hooks 12–18 inches apart for even weight distribution, especially for heavier LED or vintage-style bulbs. Closer spacing prevents sagging in longer runs.

Can I leave string lights on eavestrough year-round?

Yes, but use weatherproof, commercial-grade string lights and UV-resistant clips to withstand sun, wind, and rain. Remove them during extreme weather to extend their lifespan.