How to Mount External Light Fixtures on Existing Stucco

* Exterior-grade wood screws

* Masonry drill bit

* Drill

* Level

* Tape measure

* Pencil

* Stud finder

* Exterior caulk

* Exterior paint (optional)

Step 1: Find the studs

1. Use the stud finder to locate the studs in your stucco wall where you will be mounting the light fixtures. Mark these locations with the pencil.

2. Use the tape measure to find the center point between 3-4 studs where the light fixture will be mounted. Mark the center point with a pencil.

Step 2: Drill pilot holes for the wood screws

1. Use the masonry drill bit to drill pilot holes at the marks made in Step 1. The pilot holes should be deep enough to penetrate the stucco and the underlying stud.

2. Space the pilot holes according to the mounting bracket or holes on your light fixture.

3. Make sure the holes are level using the level.

Step 3: Attach the mounting brackets

1. Attach the mounting brackets to the stucco using the wood screws. Make sure the brackets are level and tight.

2. Tighten the screws until the brackets are secure.

Step 4: Install the light fixtures

1. Attach the light fixtures to the mounting brackets. Follow the instructions that came with the light fixtures for proper installation.

Step 5: Caulk around the light fixtures

1. Use the exterior caulk to seal around the edges of the light fixtures where they meet the stucco. This will help to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing damage.

Step 6: Paint the light fixtures (optional)

1. If you wish, you can paint the light fixtures to match the color of your stucco. Use an exterior paint that is appropriate for the material of the light fixtures.

Tips and advice:

* For heavy light fixtures, it is recommended to use toggle bolts instead of wood screws. Toggle bolts provide more support and will prevent the light fixtures from pulling out of the wall.

* If the surface is extremely hard or the drill bit is worn, you may need to use a hammer drill or a diamond tipped masonry drill bit.

* Be careful not to over-tighten the wood screws, as this could crack the stucco.

* Make sure the light fixtures are UL listed for outdoor use.