Keeping string lights dry: worth the hassle?

I totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve tried the “creative” fixes myself - once wrapped a whole extension cord in plastic wrap and zip ties, thinking I was a genius. Fast forward two weeks, and the thing looked like a science experiment gone wrong, plus it still let water in. Ended up with tripped breakers and a soggy mess.

Honestly, I think there’s something to be said for just getting the right weatherproof enclosures or covers. They’re not always pretty - some of those big rubber plug covers look like something from a submarine - but at least you’re not waking up to half your lights dead after a rainstorm.

It’s tempting to cut corners, especially when you just want to get the backyard looking festive for a party or whatever. But yeah, those “temporary” hacks have a sneaky way of becoming permanent... until they fail at the worst possible moment. At this point, I’d rather deal with ugly but safe than risk another electrical adventure.

Those submarine-looking covers might not win any style awards, but they really do the job. I’ve seen folks try all sorts of “innovative” ways to keep plugs dry - plastic bags, upside-down buckets, you name it. Nine times outta ten, water finds a way in anyway. I get wanting a quick fix, but honestly, the peace of mind from proper weatherproofing is worth it. Last thing anyone needs is a backyard light show turning into a breaker-tripping fiasco... or worse. Sometimes ugly and functional beats clever and risky.

Funny timing - I just ran into this with a flip last fall. The previous owner had strung lights all over the pergola using, I kid you not, bread bags and duct tape to “weatherproof” the plugs. Looked like a science experiment gone wrong. I swapped in those chunky covers, and yeah, not winning any design points, but at least I stopped worrying every time it rained. Curious - has anyone actually found a low-profile cover that doesn’t look like a mini torpedo? Or is ugly just the price of safety here?

Or is ugly just the price of safety here?

I’ve wondered the same thing. Has anyone tried those “weatherproof” plug wraps that look more like shrink tubing? I saw them online but not sure if they’re actually safe or just another gimmick. Do they hold up in real rain, or is it just back to the torpedo covers?

I’ve actually tried those shrink-tube style wraps, and honestly, I’m not convinced they’re much better than the old-school torpedo covers. They look a bit sleeker, sure, but I found them kind of fiddly to get on right - especially if your plugs aren’t exactly the same size as what the wrap expects. In my case, there was still a tiny gap at the end, which made me nervous during a heavy rain.

I get wanting something less bulky and ugly than the big green covers (my patio looked like it was dotted with little submarines), but at least those things are tried and true. The shrink wraps might work for light mist or if your plugs are under an eave, but I wouldn’t trust them for full exposure. Maybe I’m just paranoid after seeing water get into a supposedly “weatherproof” outlet box last year... Not worth risking a short or worse just for aesthetics, in my book.

I get where you’re coming from about the shrink wraps not sealing perfectly - had a similar issue with a set that was just a hair too small for my old extension cords. But I’m curious, have you ever tried using those weatherproof “in-use” covers? They’re bulkier than the wraps but less awkward than the torpedo things, and I’ve found them surprisingly effective, even in sideways rain. I wonder if part of the problem is just that none of these solutions are really designed for older outlets or plugs. Makes me question if there’s actually a foolproof way to keep water out, or if we’re all just picking the least-bad option...

Keeping string lights dry: worth the hassle?

Those “in-use” covers are definitely a step up from the shrink wraps, especially if you’re dealing with unpredictable weather. I’ve used them for a couple of seasons now, and while they’re not exactly sleek, they do keep most of the rain out. The only thing that bugs me is how clunky they look hanging off the side of the house - like my backyard’s got a plastic tumor or something.

You’re right about older plugs being a pain. I swear, every time I try to fit one of those covers over my ancient extension cords, it’s like wrestling an octopus. Sometimes I just end up wrapping the whole thing in a plastic bag and calling it good enough... probably not up to code, but hey, desperate times.

Honestly, I’m starting to think there’s no perfect solution unless someone invents a waterproof force field for outdoor outlets. Until then, it’s just picking whichever method annoys you least and hoping for the best when the next storm rolls through.

I get why people hate the look of those in-use covers, but honestly, I think the aesthetics are a small price to pay compared to the risk of water damage or - worse - an electrical short. I’ve seen a couple properties where someone just used a plastic bag and tape, and it ended up costing way more in repairs than if they’d just sucked it up and used the proper covers. I’ll take “plastic tumor” over a fried outlet any day. Maybe not perfect, but definitely better than the alternatives I’ve come across.

I’ll take “plastic tumor” over a fried outlet any day.

Honestly, I get where you’re coming from, but do you think there’s a middle ground? Some of those in-use covers are just massive and stick out like a sore thumb, especially on a nice patio. I’ve seen some lower-profile weatherproof boxes that don’t look as bad - anyone tried those with string lights? I’m always curious if they actually hold up or if it’s just marketing. The plastic bag trick is definitely asking for trouble, though... seen way too many melted plugs from that move.

Title: Keeping string lights dry: worth the hassle?

Those big “bubble” covers are pretty ugly, I’ll give you that. I’ve had clients call them “outlet helmets” and threaten to paint them to match the siding just so they’ll stop glaring at everyone from across the yard. The lower-profile weatherproof boxes are better, but honestly, I’ve seen mixed results. Some of them seal up fine for a season or two, but after a couple of winters, the gaskets start to warp and you’re back to square one with water sneaking in.

I get wanting to keep things looking clean, especially if you’ve spent time making your patio look nice. But I’d still take a chunky cover over melted plugs or, worse, a tripped breaker in the middle of a BBQ. The plastic bag trick is a classic “it’ll be fine” move until it’s not... I once saw a sandwich bag fused to a plug after a rainstorm. Not a good look.

If you find a low-profile box that actually survives more than one season, let me know. I’d love to stop installing these “outlet tumors” everywhere, too.

I get the frustration with those big covers - they’re not exactly subtle, and I’ve definitely had the urge to spray paint a few myself. But honestly, I’m not convinced the hassle is always worth it, especially if you’re only using the lights seasonally or for special occasions.

I’ve managed with just a regular outdoor-rated extension cord and a cheap “in-use” cover for a couple of years now. It’s not invisible, but it’s way less bulky than those bubble things. I check it every spring and fall, and if the gasket looks worn, I swap it out (they’re a few bucks at the hardware store). That seems to do the trick, at least in my climate where we don’t get torrential rain all summer.

One thing I’d push back on is the idea that you *have* to go all-in with the biggest, ugliest cover to be safe. If you’re careful about unplugging things when you know a storm’s coming, and you’re not leaving stuff out year-round, you can get away with something less obtrusive. I know that’s not what the code says, but realistically, a lot of us are just trying to keep things functional without turning our patios into an electrical obstacle course.

I do agree that the plastic bag trick is a disaster waiting to happen - learned that lesson the hard way during a backyard birthday party. The plug survived, but the smell of melted plastic lingered for days.

If you’re on a tight budget or just want to avoid the “outlet helmet” look, maybe try a smaller in-use cover and keep an eye on it. Not perfect, but it’s worked for me so far.

I’ve definitely been there with the “outlet helmet” situation - had one tenant call it a “space pod for plugs.” Honestly, I lean your way:

“a lot of us are just trying to keep things functional without turning our patios into an electrical obstacle course.”

I’ve had the same debate - those big “bubble” covers look ridiculous and just get in the way. I stick with slim weatherproof covers and make sure to hang the lights so water doesn’t pool in the sockets. If you’re only putting them up for a season, it’s not worth overthinking. Just check the cords after storms and you’re good. Squirrels, though... haven’t found a fix for that yet besides keeping an eye out.

I hear you on the bubble covers - they’re just awkward, especially if you’re trying to keep things looking tidy. Your approach with the slim covers and careful hanging is pretty much what I do too. Honestly, as long as you’re not leaving them up year-round, it’s usually fine. I’ve found that a quick inspection after heavy rain catches most issues before they turn into real problems. Squirrels, though... yeah, that’s a whole different headache. I’ve tried pepper spray on the cords, but they seem to just laugh at me.

Squirrels, though... yeah, that’s a whole different headache. I’ve tried pepper spray on the cords, but they seem to just laugh at me.

Right? Squirrels are relentless. I’ve had them chew straight through the wire in a single night - didn’t even notice until half the lights were dead. Honestly, I think the bubble covers just make it easier for them to grip and gnaw. Have you ever tried running the cords through metal conduit or is that overkill? I’m starting to wonder if it’s worth the hassle at all, especially with old brick that doesn’t like being drilled into.

Metal conduit sounds a bit much, but I get the temptation. I actually tried wrapping the cords in that split loom tubing - stuff you use for car wiring. It’s not bulletproof, but it slowed the squirrels down enough for me to catch them in the act. Drilling into old brick is a pain, though... I ended up using those heavy-duty outdoor adhesive hooks. Haven’t had any cords fall yet, and the brick’s still intact. Honestly, sometimes I wonder if the battle with nature is half the fun - or maybe I’m just stubborn.

Drilling into old brick is a pain, though... I ended up using those heavy-duty outdoor adhesive hooks. Haven’t had any cords fall yet, and the brick’s still intact.

I hear you on the brick - last time I tried to drill into mine, I ended up with a cloud of dust and a bit of a mess, not to mention a couple of holes that didn’t line up right. Those adhesive hooks are clever, but I’ve had mixed luck with them once the weather swings from hot to cold. Maybe it’s just my old house, but I’ve had a few peel off after a rough winter. If yours are holding up, that’s a win.

On the squirrel front, I’m not sure anything short of a steel cage would keep them out for good. I tried the split loom tubing too, but the little guys just saw it as a new challenge. Ended up switching to some cheap PVC pipe from the hardware store - cut a slit down one side and snapped it over the cords. Not the prettiest, but it’s tougher than the loom stuff and didn’t cost much. Plus, it keeps the rain off better than I expected.

Honestly, I get what you mean about the “battle with nature.” Sometimes I wonder if I’m spending more time outsmarting critters and weather than actually enjoying the lights. But then again, there’s something satisfying about finding a fix that doesn’t break the bank or wreck the house. Maybe stubbornness is just part of the deal when you’re trying to make things work without spending a fortune.

Anyway, if those adhesive hooks ever give out, you might try those masonry clips that grip the brick edges - no drilling needed. They’re not perfect, but they’ve saved me a few headaches.

Those masonry clips are a lifesaver, but I’ve had a few pop off when the temps swing or if the brick’s a little crumbly. Still beats drilling, though - last time I tried that, I ended up patching more holes than I made for the lights. Funny you mention PVC pipe; I did something similar last year after a squirrel chewed straight through my “weatherproof” cord cover. Not exactly pretty, but it’s held up better than anything else I’ve tried.

Honestly, half the time it feels like the lights are more for the squirrels’ entertainment than mine. I keep telling myself I’ll just skip it next year, but then the holidays roll around and there I am, back on the ladder. Curious - has anyone actually found a way to keep those adhesive hooks stuck through a full winter? Or is it just luck of the draw with how your wall faces the wind and sun?

Keeping String Lights Dry: Worth The Hassle?

Adhesive hooks and winter… that’s a combo I’ve never managed to make work for more than a couple weeks. I tried the “outdoor” ones with the red liner last December, and by New Year’s Eve half of them were dangling by the wires. My theory is the cold just makes the glue brittle, but maybe my north-facing wall doesn’t help either.

I’ve actually had better luck using those reusable zip ties around gutter brackets or anything that’ll give me an anchor point. Not exactly elegant, but at least they don’t leave sticky residue or holes everywhere. The squirrels seem to enjoy the challenge - caught one last year doing acrobatics trying to get at a bulb.

Honestly, every year I think about skipping it, too… but then I remember how much the kids love seeing the lights up when it gets dark at 4:30. Worth it for a few weeks of magic, even if it means wrestling with clips and critters.

I get the magic part, but honestly, after last year’s fiasco with waterlogged sockets and a blown fuse, I’m not convinced it’s worth the hassle. Tried the zip tie trick too - worked until a windstorm twisted the whole strand into a knot. Ended up spending more time untangling than enjoying. Maybe I’m just not cut out for outdoor lights, but I’d rather put a few battery candles in the windows and call it festive enough. Less drama, fewer squirrel shenanigans.