Tried the “mount it higher” trick last year—just stuck the plugs up under the eaves with some zip ties. Worked okay until a sideways rainstorm hit and soaked everything anyway. Honestly, I’m with you on not wanting to drop cash on overpriced covers, but after frying two sets of lights, I caved and bought some cheap outlet covers from the hardware store. Not fancy, but they did the job. If you’re handy, maybe rig up a little plastic container as a shield? Just poke some holes for drainage so you don’t end up with a mini aquarium like I did...
I’ve seen so many people try to “hack” their way around keeping outdoor lights dry, and honestly, most of those DIY fixes end up being more trouble than they’re worth. I get the urge to avoid spending on those ugly plastic covers (they’re not exactly winning any design awards), but after a few seasons of fried lights and tripping breakers, I just gave in and bought proper weatherproof boxes. They’re not expensive if you skip the fancy brands, and they actually work.
I tried the plastic container trick once—cut a hole for the cord, flipped it upside down, and thought I was a genius. Then a windstorm came through and turned the whole thing into a birdbath. Not my finest moment. The drainage holes idea is smart, but water still finds a way in if the rain’s coming sideways or there’s snow melt.
If you really care about how it looks, I’ve seen people spray-paint those covers to match their siding or even hide them behind planters. It’s not perfect, but it’s better than risking another short circuit or worse, an electrical fire. I know it feels like overkill for string lights, but if you’re going to the trouble of hanging them up for ambiance, you might as well protect your investment (and your house).
Honestly, after dealing with ruined lights and extension cords, I’d say just get the covers. You’ll save yourself a lot of hassle and probably some money in the long run. And hey, if you come up with a DIY solution that actually survives a storm, let me know—I’d love to see it.
I totally get the urge to DIY—my first attempt was wrapping the plug in a plastic bag and duct tape. Looked like a sad burrito and lasted about two weeks before water got in anyway. If you’re trying to save cash, here’s what I’d do: 1) Go for the cheapest weatherproof box you can find (they’re usually under $10), 2) Spray paint it if it’s ugly, and 3) Tuck it behind a planter or something. Not glamorous, but way less stressful than replacing fried lights every season. I still wonder if there’s a better hack, but honestly, the store-bought covers just work.
Looked like a sad burrito and lasted about two weeks before water got in anyway.
That’s about how my first attempt went—except mine looked more like a lumpy sandwich bag. I’ve tried a few hacks, but honestly, the cheap weatherproof boxes are worth it. I tuck mine behind an old milk can on the porch. Not pretty, but it’s lasted through two winters. Sometimes the simplest fix is best, even if it’s not fancy.
Funny how we all end up with some version of the “plastic bag solution” at first. I remember rigging up a grocery bag and a handful of twist ties—looked like a science project gone wrong. Didn’t even make it through the first rainstorm before I had to unplug everything and start over.
I hear you on the weatherproof boxes. I was stubborn for a while, trying to DIY it with Tupperware and silicone, but honestly, the store-bought ones just work better. Not the prettiest, but I’d rather have ugly and dry than creative and fried. I do wonder if there’s a way to make them blend in more, though. I’ve seen folks paint them or stick them behind planters, but mine’s just out there, looking like a plastic brick.
Anyway, I guess the hassle’s worth it if you want the lights to last. I’ve lost a couple of sets to water damage, and that’s a pain. Sometimes you just have to pick your battles, right?