Putting up your outdoor Christmas decorations is one of the most satisfying and rewarding experiences of the holiday season. However, you need to consider a few factors before and after putting up the lights to protect them from environmental elements.
Here are eight ways to ensure that your Christmas lights do not succumb to bad weather and that you enjoy the festive period without any accidents.
1) Use Safer Light Sources
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When you are buying your Christmas lights, look for those that are rated for exterior use. Most outdoor products are described using terms like waterproof, water-resistant, and weatherproof. However, the terminology is insufficient; you must check the IP rating.
The IP rating consists of two digits:
- The first number indicates protection against solids (like dust), ranging from one to six, where the higher value offers more protection.
- The second digit indicates protection against liquids, ranging from one to 9,000, where the higher value offers more protection.
- An X in either the first or second digit indicates the device is not rated for protection against solids or liquids, respectively.
Outdoor equipment should have an IP rating of at least IP23. Lights with the IP rating IPX3, means it's not rated for solid yet provide ample protection against liquids for outdoor use.
2) Use Polyurethane
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To protect any wooden decorations, apply a clear coat of polyurethane to provide a finish resistant to water, solvents, and abrasion. Make sure to use one that is formulated especially for outdoor use. If you use any polyurethane, it may not last long on the surface.
Before you coat the entire wooden ornament with polyurethane, test it on a small inconspicuous area. Ensure it will not cause any damage. Once satisfied, apply a thin coat covering the entire wooden surface, as a thick coating can make the wood look cloudy or sticky.
While polyurethane is toxic, it is safe to use when handled appropriately. Use protective gloves and goggles, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and work in a well-ventilated environment.
You can also find non-toxic polyurethane alternatives, such as linseed oil, tung oil, and shellac. Moreover, water-based polyurethane is less toxic compared to oil-based polyurethane.
3) Place the Lights Strategically
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If rain droplets cling to your decorations and freeze, they can permanently damage your decoration. Therefore, hang your Christmas light strands to allow room for air circulation. The circulating air will increase moisture evaporation and reduce the chances of your lights freezing.
Another simple trick is to position your lights in areas least exposed to wind, rain, and snow whenever possible. You can hot glue your Christmas lights under the porch roof, rain gutters, window awning, etc. Make sure to apply the glue to the base of the light instead of the wire, and use smaller intervals for heavier lights to keep them secure in windy conditions.
4) Use the Right Power Extension Cord
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The place where all the wirings connect is probably the most susceptible point of your electrical décor. Water is the biggest enemy of your light show, and even a slight intrusion can shut down your Christmas lights production.
Therefore, use a heavy-duty extension cord approved for outdoor use and keep the connections minimal. Using one long power extension for all your lights is better than combining two or more extension cables to reduce the chances of moisture in the connectors.
Ideally, look for an extension cord with enough outlets to accommodate your lights. If you are not using all the outlets on your extension cord, plug them with a weatherproof gasket to keep the water out.
5) Waterproof Electrical Connections
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If you have two cords connecting, you must weatherproof them and keep them away from accumulated water puddles.
You can either use an electrical cover box that envelopes the connectors of the two cords and keep them in place. You can also place a gasket between the two cords to keep the water out.
Finally, you can wrap the connectors with electrical tape after plugging the cords together tightly. Overlap the tape at least three times to make it more secure.
Keep the connecting point elevated and off the ground when you are using either gaskets or electrical tape so they do not become submerged in water.
6) Use a GFCI Outlet
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A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is an added yet necessary measure and you should use it in conjunction with all your electrical weatherproofing efforts. It is used to prevent shorts and electrocution by cutting off the power in case of a leak in the power cord. Thus, invest in a GFCI for any outlets that supply power to the outdoor lights.
7) Apply Water Shield
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Even if your Christmas decorations carry the waterproof tag, they can look battered and forlorn after spending extended periods in the open air. To keep your decorative pieces in perfect condition, apply a coat of water shield. Repeat the process if you feel your items need reinforcement to extend their lifespan.
8) Weigh Down the Decorations
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Gusts of wind can blow away many of your outdoor Christmas decorations, ruining your display and causing property damage and injuries. Hence, apply weights to all your décor items placed on the ground, such as the blown-up reindeer or Santa Claus décor , and secure all the hanging pieces, such as the garlands, lights, and wreaths, with zip ties or hot glue wherever possible.
You can add sand or gravel inside hollow decorations, such as plastic animals. Use sand if the holes in the bottom of the decoration are resealable. Or you can use gravel or small stones if you cannot plug the hole shut.
Preemptive Weatherproofing can Save the Day
Simple premeditative steps can ensure that your Christmas décor remains twinkling, glittering, and intact come rain or shine. It also allows you and your family to enjoy the festivities safely. That, too, without any unpredictable incidents that can put a damper on your holiday spirits.
How do you weatherproof your Christmas decorations? Share below in the comment section!