How To Install An Outside Light On Vinyl Siding

Things to Note

How to Install Outside Lights on Vinyl Siding

Here’s what you need to do to have beautiful lights on the exterior of your home.

What You’ll Need

Step One: Picking a Location

The first thing you’ll want to do is pick where you want to put your lights. Many homeowners put one on each side of their garage door, as well as one by the front door. I’d like to suggest also adding one on the side of your house and outside of any sliding glass door.

Step Two: Finding Power

After you’ve picked where you want the lights to go, run power to that location through the inside wall. When you do this, be sure that the breaker is off until you’re completely finished installing. You can use a non-contact tester to verify that the power source is off.

Step Three: Make an Outline

Take a pencil and outline the back of the electrical box onto your siding. Cut around this area using a keyhole saw. Then, pull out the electrical wire through the end of the box from inside the wall.

Once the wiring is through the hole, tighten the screws in the front using a screwdriver. This will secure it to the wall. If you’re using a kit that has a built-in electrical box, you can skip this step.

Step Four: Make a Mounting Block

The fourth step requires cutting a mounting block out of one-inch lumber. This allows you to put the fixture onto vinyl siding. Make sure the block is big enough to properly place the light.

Once you have the block cut, drill a ½-inch hole in the middle for the next step.

Step Five: Draw a Block Outline

Place the block against the siding and make an outline using a pencil. Then, take your utility knife and cut out the outline by cutting the top and bottom, while leaving the sides. Be sure not to cut into the house wrap that is under the siding.

Step Six: Attach a Metal Drip Edge

Take a piece of metal drip edge and nail it to the top of the block using a one-inch roofing nail. Now you’ll be able to place the block inside the area you previously cut out. Screw the block into the sheathing with a couple of two-inch screws.

Step Seven: Seal the Deal

Next, take the rubber gasket and fit around the base of the light. Then, connect the wires from the fixture to the electric cable. There should be colors on each wiring that correspond with wires in the box.

Twist the wires together in a clockwise direction using pliers. Secure them by adding a wire cap onto each set, not including the ground wires. The easiest way to spot ground wires is a green color on the end, or they’ll be totally bare.

Step Eight: Finish Up

All that you have left is to screw the lighting fixture to the siding or the mounting block. There should be screws that come with the light you’ve purchased that work perfectly for this step. Since not all lights come with a roof, be sure to seal the base using silicone caulk to keep out moisture.

What to Look For When Buying Exterior Lights

Here’s a handy buying guide that will ensure you find the best lights for your home.

Design

One of the main reasons people get exterior fixtures on their home is to add a design flare. Lights on your home bring a welcoming vibe to your home and is a great way to add a bit of curb appeal to your house.

Putting exterior lights on vinyl siding can create a cohesive look. You can get lights that automatically turn on when you get home as well. Overall, they make your house look more put together and warm.

Price

Just like anything else you buy for your home, it will come at a price. This plays a part in what fixtures you’ll be able to buy. Thankfully, they’re relatively inexpensive, and you can often get a pair for under $50.

Functions

The last thing you may want to look for is any special functions. Do you want exterior lights that come with dimming settings? Maybe you’re looking for motion-activated lights to add a bit of security to your home.

There are plenty of different features and functions to be on the lookout for. This can help you find the best bang for your buck when comparing one product to another.

Types of Exterior Lights

There are several types of exterior light fixtures. Here are the main ones and what they’re designed for.

Wall Lights

Wall lights are best used for porches, entryways, garages, and patios. They’re likely what you think of when you picture exterior lights on a home. These are classic and can be mounted virtually anywhere on your home.

They’re known for being rather durable and can illuminate a large area around your yard. Wall lights come in a variety of different styles, colors, and price points.

Ceiling Lights & Hanging Lights

Ceiling and hanging lights are usually found on porches and covered patios. Many newer homes will have ceiling lights above their front door to illuminate the front steps. These can also make a patio or deck feel quite cozy.

If your porch or patio is often damp, these are great additions. They’re fairly affordable and come in several unique styles.

Security Lights

Finally, security lights are best used by walkways, entrances, alleyways, garages, and backyards. They are built with a motion sensor light that is triggered by movement. These can be a bit more expensive but are well worth it to keep you and your loved ones safe.