How to Put Rope Lights Up on a Balcony

To add some style and light to your balcony, install rope lighting -- miniature lights encased in flexible PVC tubing that provide soft light for a special occasion or holiday, and bring atmosphere to a dark balcony area anytime. The strands are flexible enough to be wrapped around a railing, or you can attach them along the balcony railing using mounting brackets.


Locate the outlet closest to your balcony railing. Use an outdoor extension cord, if necessary, to reach the outlet.


Unroll the rope light strand. Plug in the strand to test the lights before you begin. Keep the lights plugged in for a few minutes to allow the PVC tubing to warm up, making it more pliable. Unplug the lights before installation.


Begin at the end of the balcony railing closest to the outlet. Attach a mounting bracket to the deck rail 2 inches from the end of the railing, using either screws or nails.


Snap the rope light into the bracket. Turn the tubing so the bulbs face outward for the best light.


Attach additional brackets to the balcony rail at 18-inch intervals. Snap rope lights into the brackets as you go, keeping the rope taut. Attach additional rope light sections if needed to cover the rail.


Place an end cap at the end of the rope light section.