Transform Your Backyard: A Guide to Hanging String Lights around Your Pool

As the days grow longer and warmer weather beckons us outdoors, thoughts turn to summer evenings filled with fun gatherings around the pool. One fantastic way to create a gorgeous ambiance for your backyard parties is to hang beautiful strings of light around your pool's perimeter.

When hung properly, string lights reflect off the water in dazzling, dreamy ways. They make your poolscape shimmer and extend the hours you can use the pool. Read on for our complete guide to planning, selecting and installing party perfect string lights guaranteed to make your pool the neighborhood's hottest summer spot!

Planning Out Your Poolside String Light Layout

Great lighting design begins with thoughtful planning. To end up with an evenly lit, visually striking installation that makes your pool glow, keep these preparatory steps in mind:

• Measure the length of your pool's perimeter so you know exactly how long of a string light set you need.
• Consider the sun's arc and where tree/building shadows may fall to place your lights strategically.
• For smaller pools, one longer string that fully encircles the pool is ideal. For very large pools, use several shorter strings spaced apart to prevent dark spots.
• If your yard slopes, measure both shallow and deep ends to buy adjustable height hardware.

Think about sight lines from seating areas and oft-used parts of your yard too - you want to amplify beauty where people gather most. Now for the fun part - picking out perfect lights!

Our Top String Light Recommendations

Today's string light options let you get really creative in designing your unique backyard oasis. From classic white bulbs to colorful LEDs, waterproof pontoon lights to commercial grade wraparounds, here are some of our top recommendations:

• Sunbeam 10-Foot Copper Wire 20 Count - Gorgeous exposed copper wiring with vintage Edison style bulbs for lots of charm.
• Brightown 300 LED 130ft Waterproof - Commercial grade bright flexible lights perfect for spanning larger pools.
• Home Bright LEDString Lights - Budget friendly strings with bonus dimmer for just the right moody glow.

Key Specs to Keep in Mind

Whichever style you select, prioritize these specifics for optimal safety and performance:

• Length - Carefully measure so you buy adequate coverage the first time.
• Lumens - Brighter bulbs show up better in water and evening conditions.
• Spacing - Look for roughly 4 inches between bulbs for consistent lighting.
• Waterproof - Choose lights rated for poolside use and even immersion.
• Durability - Seek shatterproof, commercial grade bulbs and wiring for longevity.

Choosing Hardware to Hang Your String Lights

Once you've picked perfect lights, decide how you'll mount them. We recommend installing permanent anchors around the pool's entire perimeter ahead of time before stringing up the lights. Handy hardware options include:

• Sturdy deck hooks that screw into wooden fence boards or overhangs.
• Freestanding metal shepherd poles that slide into grass or dirt easily.
• Metal or plastic stakes made for anchoring landscape lighting wired into soil/planting beds.
• Weighted plastic bases connected by short poles to weave through pool rails.

Sloped Backyard Considerations

For gently sloping yards, look for hardware with adjustable height settings like telescoping poles or flexible wrap mounts. More extreme slope? Opt for permanent posts cemented into the ground, using progressively taller posts on the downward side to maintain an even line of lights all around.

Spacing Your Hardware Anchors

As a rule of thumb, place securing anchors: - 3-4 feet apart for shorter runs of under 25 feet. - 5-6 feet apart for longer spans of 50+ feet. This helps prevent sagging while allowing you to tightly fasten lights start to finish. Now let's get to the fun part - stringing up your lights!

Installing Your String Lights Beautifully

Once prep work is done, the stage is set for a gorgeous DIY pool lighting transformation. Use these pro tips when hanging:

• Connect light strands before hanging by linking male and female electrical ports.
• Wrap strands tightly around hardware anchors to prevent wind/weather sagging risks.
• Check spacing as you string by stepping back frequently for perspective.
• Use extenders/risers when needed on slopes for evenly draped look.
• Take care around water - plugs and transformers must stay perfectly dry.

Throw in Some Extras!

Already imagining your gorgeous, glittering oasis? Amp up the ambiance even further by complementing perimeter bulbs with these magical touches:

• Layer strings of cafe/bistro bulbs over top for doubled radiance.
• Drape curtain lights around cabanas or seating nooks for cozy lounge spaces.
• Dot pathway stakes and garden torches leading up to the pool.'
• Suspend a statement light fixture (lanterns, crystal chandeliers!) over the water for drama.

Dream it and you can achieve it! Now let's cover some FAQs about poolside string light safety and care.

Pool String Light FAQs

We get lots of common questions about creating showstopping string light displays. Here are some of the top things to keep in mind:

Are string lights safe around pools?

Choose lighting marked explicitly as waterproof and pool/spa safe. This ensures the bulbs and wiring can withstand moisture and will not put swimmers at risk of electrical hazards. Also be vigilant about plugging in far from water with GFCI protected outlets.

How do I maintain pool string lights?

Inspect connections regularly for corrosion and moisture. Replace any damaged cords/bulbs immediately, and fully detach/store lights in extreme weather. We recommend replacing aquatic bulbs every 2-3 seasons as seals and filaments degrade over time.

Can you keep string lights up year round outside?

In warmer climates, absolutely! Just ensure your lights are rated for permanent outdoor exposure. For cold winter zones, remove lights when not in use to prevent ice, snow and temperature extremes from causing cracks and frayed wires.

What about using string lights in a saltwater pool?

It is doable but challenging due to salt's corrosive qualities. Use only commercial grade stainless steel hardware and reinforced lighting components rated as saltwater safe. Be extra diligent about damage inspections and component replacements every 1-2 years.

We hope our comprehensive string light installation guide inspires you to infuse radiant elegance into your poolside outdoor living space. Savor balmy summer nights floating beneath the glow of creatively placed lights. Throw memorable celebrations that run into the wee hours without sacrificing ambiance.

Most importantly, enjoy expanded quality time with cherished family and friends in your stunning oasis. Let creativity and memories light up your life all season long by taking your pool from plain to perfect with artfully hung string lights!