There are so many ways to DIY with Christmas light installation, and some are better than others. But why improvise when there are so many specialized types of Christmas light clips that have unique adaptations making them perfect in specific installations? This short post will go over some of the best Christmas light clips and where they should be used.
Why Use Christmas Light Clips?
The best reason to use Christmas light clips is that they offer a fast and easy install. Modern light clips are easy to install and result in a much more even, professional display.
Christmas light clips also offer the added advantage of keeping the bulbs straight and in a row, which makes them look even and prim, whereas DIY methods can result in a crooked arrangement.
And then, of course, there is the fact that there are so many different types of Christmas light clips that are specialized for specific installations, meaning there’s probably a light clip for your application.
Types of Christmas Light Clips
There are two main types of Christmas light clips; those that grip the bulb socket itself, and those that grip the cord.
Our Smart Clips (pictured below) are the number one clip chosen by professional installers, and for good reason. They cut down on installation time, are long-lasting as a result of a UV inhibitor, and they work well with stiff shingles. They also sport a design that provides for a sure, complete grip around the entire bulb and stays with it at takedown, streamlining installation the next season.
Our Shingle V clips are another good choice, and another one commonly chosen by professional commercial Christmas light installers. They are strong and rigid which makes them a good choice for tough shingles, and feature an “easy squeeze” design for quick installation. Designed for use with C7 and C9 Christmas lights, they’re great for use on roofs and gutters.
Of course, for gutter installations, our Gutter Clips are a great choice. Also designed for use with C7 and C9 bulbs, these are the best choice to keep the bulbs straight up on a gutter. They can also be used on shingles.
The Pro Plus Clip is another good clip to keep a light standing straight up on a gutter. They’re also for C7 and C9 Christmas lights and like our Gutter Clips can also be used on shingles.
Our All Application Clip is one of the most versatile clips on the market and can be used on gutters, shingles and tile roofs with C7 and C9 Christmas lights, as well as with icicle and Mini Lights, hence the name.
The Ridge Clip is the perfect clip for ridge lighting. It’s very easy to install (just slide it over the ridge shingle) and sports clips that grab both sides of the ridge shingle, for a strong, secure grip. It causes no damage to the roof or ridgeline and is compatible with many ridge shingles.
Shingle Tabs are great for a variety of different lights, too, and create a strong attachment, even on old, worn roofs.
Parapet Clips are a great choice for use with Pro Plus Clips and Shingle Tabs.
As for clips that grip the cord, a good example is our Multi Application Clip, which is one of the most versatile clips on the market. It offers a durable hook connection, can be used on a wide variety of roof types, and since it grips the cord, can be used with basically all light types.
For Varying Applications
Another way to look at Christmas light clips (instead of by type) is by intended application.
For instance, if you are installing C9 Christmas lights and want the bulb to point straight up (which is currently a common trend) then some good options are Smart Clips, Shingle V Clips, Multi Application and All Application Clips. If you’re lighting the gutters and want the bulb to point straight up, Gutter Clips and Pro Plus Clips are good options.
Conversely, if you want the bulb pointing out, Pro Plus and Shingle Tabs are good options for installation. If they’re going on the gutters and you want the bulb to point out, use a Smart Clip, a Shingle V Clip, a Multi Application or All Application Clip.
If you have gutter guards installed, you can use Shingle V or Multi App Clips to install the lights on the clip behind the gutter, too.
For lighting hips and ridges, always use a Ridge Clip, which provides a sure attachment point to the ridgeline shingle that won’t come loose or damage the shingle.
Metal roofs present a unique challenge, but there are ways around it - you can use magnetic clips or Magnetic Socket Cord to ensure a strong attachment.
Tile roofs also produce similar challenges, but with the right clips it’s no issue. Simply use a Smart Clip with a black alligator clamp or binder clips every 5 to 10 feet.
For porous surfaces, you can use Parapet Clips with a Pro Plus Clip or a Shingle Tab. You can also use hot glue for arches and other areas that have lines perpendicular to the ground.
In some instances, combining different clips will afford you the greatest success. For instance, if you want the greatest longevity, use a Smart Clip with a Gutter Clip, and if you want the greatest uniformity, use a Shingle V Clip with either a Gutter Clip or a Pro Plus Clip.
If you’re installing Icicle Lights, the best option is to use a Multi Application Clip or Binder Clips; if installing Mini Lights, your best option is to use Multi Application Clips with a Shingle Tab.
Light Clips for Residential and Commercial Christmas Lights Are Right Here!
Looking for high quality exterior Christmas lights and installation accessories? Shop the Decorator’s Warehouse collection - there are lights and clips for every application. Bring your house out of the shadows and light it up with the magic of the Christmas season this year. Your BEST Christmas EVER starts right now!