How to Hang Lights for an Outside Canopy

Measure the area covered by the awning and determine the number of lights you will need. Four 60-watt bulbs are needed to light approximately 100 square feet, eight to light 400 square feet, 10 for 600 square feet and 12 for approximately 800 square feet.

Fasten No. 8 gauge smooth wire under the canopy roof by tying the ends around the metal framework. Position the wires where you want to hang the lights and space the wires at the right distance apart to light the entire area.

Hang the lights on the smooth wires by the attached hooks. Connect the light strings by plugging the male plugs into the females.

Install an electrical receptacle on the building wall near the ceiling of the canopy to serve as a power source. Using a switch box as a guide, mark and cut a hole in the wall. Run 12-2 non-metallic sheathed cable from a power source inside the building down through the wall and into the freshly cut hole. Install the switch box; connect the cable to a receptacle; and secure the receptacle and waterproof receptacle plate to the switch box. The power cord attached to the lights can be plugged into the receptacle when you want to illuminate the canopy.