How to Install a Light Post

Easy

Introduction

Installing a new light post is a relatively easy task. Whether the new light post will be solar powered or ac powered we will get you through the job! Light posts add security to the outside of your home or business, they also afford the opportunity to spend more time outdoors in the evening. If it is security or added elegance to your home, a light post is the right answer. There are many types of light posts from a single lamp to multiple lamps available to install. You will find detailed information on how to install light posts of all kinds. We are confident that if you look over the materials we have presented below, you and The DIY Home Pro will accomplish a professional looking job! We have rounded a few resources that will send you on your way to completing your new project. Please look over the information below carefully, and then use what is most applicable to your specific project. Remember: we have searched everywhere to bring you the very best information available so that your project will be a complete success! Always check with The DIY Home Pro first for all of your projects!.

Quick Links

Introduction
What You’ll Need

The Technique
Books and DVDs

Hire A Contractor
Ask Our Experts

Tools Needed
Materials Needed

What You’ll Need

When attempting to install a light post you will need some specific tools for the job. We have provided a short list of tools and materials to help you get through the job. We are confident that these tools and materials will aid you in completing a job that is both professional and functional. Good Luck!

The Tools You’ll Need

Post Hole Digger

A post hole digger will be used to dig the hole for the light post. This device will keep the hole size to a minimum allowing you to use less cement to fill in the hole after the post is installed. Ames True Temper Classic Post Hole Digger With 44-Inch Wood Handle #1702600

Shovel

A shovel will be needed to mix cement and put the fill material back into the hole. A good shovel is always handy to have around the home. Ames True Temper Eagle Round Point Shovel With 46-Inch Fiberglass Handle #1348500

Wire Pliers

Wire pliers are used to cut and strip the wires during the installation process.

Level

A level will be used to make sure the post is straight once you have placed it in the hole. there are many types of levels available, we have provided an example of the most common. Black & Decker BDSL10 36-Inch Gecko Grip Level with Accu Mark

Wire Nuts

Wire nuts will be used to join the wires together when wiring up the light. These will be a required part of completing the job. Wire Nut - Connector Assortment - 107 Pieces

The Materials You’ll Need

Light Post

The light post is the main object of this article, there are many styles available and we have provided a couple of styles for you here.

Electrical Tape

Electrical tape will be used to tape the wire nuts on to the wires while insulating the wires from touching each other. This tape is utilized by the professionals and will come in handy for your job! Henkel 667 Duck 3/4-Inch-by-66-Feet-by-7mm Professional Electrical Tape, Black

Electrical wire

The size and type of electrical wire for your specific light post is regulated by local code. We have provided a sample of the most commonly used burial wire.

The Technique

Installing a light post is pretty much the same process for many different styles of posts. However; your specific application may call for a few changes in the wiring or how the post is installed. If you are doing a standard light post installation these articles will give you the step by step details on how to accomplish the job!

How to Install a Lamp Post

Here is a great article with pictures to guide you through the task. In this article it explains everything from getting power to the light to burying the wire and making a form for the base. You will also see how to level the form and wire the light! You will need to click on the numbered pages on the article to move to the next step. You are able to print each page to take with you to the job site. Enjoy! View the Article >>>

Lamp Post and Lantern

Here is another step by step instructional document with some very nice pictures. This covers everything from installing to wiring! View the Article >>>

Books and DVDs

Design and Installing Outdoor Lighting

The title says it all! This book will guide you through several concepts in designing outdoor lighting schemes that will enhance your area. You will also be taken step by step through the installation process.

Art of Outdoor Lighting

This book will teach you the art of creating outdoor lighting that will transform your outdoors into a well lighted area that frames the natural beauty of your home

Hire A Professional Contractor

Not convinced you want to go it alone? Renovation Experts is a great place to find local professional contractors who specialize in any home improvement and home repair project you may have.