Hanging Christmas lights on a brick house can seem daunting if you don’t want to use nails or glue. However, with some creativity and the right materials, you can decorate your brick home for the holidays without damaging the brick or masonry.
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Can You Hang Christmas Lights on Brick?
Yes, you can hang Christmas lights on brick without glue. The key is to use light clips or hooks specifically designed for brick and masonry. There are several ways to securely attach Christmas light clips to brick:
- Use removable clip-on hooks
- Thread lights through mortar lines
- Wrap lights around porch columns
- Weave lights through railings or trellises
With the right materials and a little ingenuity, you can safely decorate your brick exterior for the holidays. Avoid any mounting method that requires drilling holes in the brick or masonry.
Best Materials for Hanging Lights on Brick
Here are the best materials for hanging Christmas lights on brick:
Plastic Clip-On Hooks
Plastic clip-on hooks, also called Christmas light clips, are perfect for attaching lights to brick. Look for clips specifically designed for brick and masonry. They should have a flat base that fits securely between the grooves without damaging the brick. Plastic hooks are easy to install and remove.
Steel Masonry Hooks
Steel masonry hooks have a loop to hang lights and a clip that fits in the grout lines between bricks. Make sure to choose galvanized steel hooks rated for outdoor use. Check that the base of the hook is flat to prevent scratching or damaging the brick face.
Zip Ties
Heavy duty zip ties can attach light strands to railings, columns, and trellises on a brick exterior. Look for outdoor-rated nylon zip ties designed to withstand the elements. Zip ties allow you to neatly organize and secure cables.
Twist Ties
Metal twist ties or gardening ties work well for threading lights through mortar lines or wrapping lights around columns and railings. The thin metal allows ties to be twisted flush against the brick for a seamless look.
Magnet Hooks
Magnet hooks provide a quick solution for hanging lightweight lights on a steel door or window frame on a brick house. Make sure the magnets are strong enough to securely hold the lights.
Suction Cups
Suction cups can temporarily adhere light clips or hooks to smooth surfaces like glass and painted trim on a brick exterior. Look for heavy duty suction cups rated for outdoor use.
Where to Attach Lights on a Brick House
Here are some of the best places to hang Christmas lights on a brick house:
Porch Columns
Wrap light strands around porch columns and railings using plastic clips or twist ties. This adds a decorative touch to entryways.
Windows and Doors
Outline windows and doors with icicle lights or spotlights using clip-on plastic hooks, suction cups, or magnet hooks for steel frames.
Roofline
Attach clip-on hooks to the mortar above the roofline to hang dangling lights or extend light strands across gutters.
Trees and Bushes
Use plastic clips or zip ties to attach light strands to any trees, shrubs, or trellises planted near the house.
Fencing
Weave light strands through wrought iron or metal fencing using zip ties or twist ties to adhere them to the bars and posts.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to hang Christmas lights on brick:
- Clean the surface – Remove any dirt or debris between bricks to allow lights to sit flush against the brick.
- Map out your design – Decide where you want to place lights and the materials needed for each area.
- Attach clips and hooks – Press plastic clips or steel hooks into mortar lines or use magnets, suction cups, zip ties, or twist ties to adhere lights.
- Plug in and test lights – Connect light strands and test to make sure all bulbs work before completely installing.
- Hang lights – Drape wired lights along shrubs, windows, roofline, etc. Keep wires tidy against the house.
- Check connections – Verify light clips and wires are securely attached to the brick so they don’t come loose.
Tips
- Look for clips and hooks specifically designed for masonry and brick. Avoid any tools that require nails, screws, or glue.
- Only install lights in mortar lines, not directly on the brick face, to prevent scratches or cracks.
- LED lights run cooler than incandescent bulbs and are safer for brick surfaces.
- Use plastic decorations like wreaths and garlands rather than heavy decor that requires drilling.
- Wrap extension cords and wires tightly against the house to be subtle and prevent tripping hazards.
- Check lights periodically and remove them promptly after the holidays to avoid damage.
Do’s and Don’ts
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Use brick clips, magnets, suction cups, zip ties | Use nails, screws, staples, tape |
| Wrap lights around columns and railings | Drill into the brick surface |
| Weave lights through trees and bushes | Hang heavy decor like garland on gutters |
| Use steel hooks in mortar joints | Let lights or wires sit directly on the brick |
| Keep wires tight to the house | Use old or worn clips that may scratch |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use nails or staples on brick?
Avoid using nails, screws, staples, or any method that penetrates the brick surface. This can crack the brick face and create holes for water damage.
Will tape or command hooks work on brick?
Tape often loses adhesion and command hooks are not strong enough for hanging lights. Use metal hooks, plastic clips, zip ties, or magnets instead.
Is it okay to hang lights in the mortar lines?
Yes, inserting plastic clips or hooks into the mortar joints is an ideal way to hang lights safely on brick without damaging the brick itself.
Can I use an outdoor-safe adhesive?
Adhesives are difficult to remove after the holidays. They may peel or discolor paint or damage the brick. Use non-permanent light hanging methods instead.
How do I hang lights near the roofline?
Use tall ladders or hire a professional installer. Do not hang lights near the roofline in slippery or windy conditions.
Conclusion
With some simple plastic clips, zip ties, and magnet hooks, you can decorate your brick exterior for the holidays without damaging the masonry or leaving behind any unsightly holes. Focus on threading lights through mortar lines, wrapping them around columns and railings, and hiding wires carefully against the house. With these tips, your brick home will shine bright this holiday season.