How to mount string lights and trellis across patio (stucco on one side and brick on the other)

[alfa147x]

Hi all - We've got a patio with a stucco wall on one side and a brick wall on the other. I want to zig-zag steel wire to drape string lights across them. I'd also like to mount a trellis for my jasmine and bougainvillea to creep across. My initial plan is to mount pressure-treated and stained/painted 2x4s across the walls giving me something to attach to for the lights and trellis without having to repeatedly drill into the brick and stucco.

 

[Greenman]

Sounds like you have a workable plan.

 

[alfa147x]

Wont water get between the 2x4 and the wall and cause issues?

 

[Greenman]

Wont water get between the 2x4 and the wall and cause issues?

Worst case is the 2x4 rots after a few years. If you're really concerned about it use a product called "off the wall". It's a plastic spacer.

 

[Lost_in_the_HTTP]

I'd look at something vertical from the ground up. Then add cross ties. All the support for weight is carried by the verticals and you'd only need one anchor at the top of each to prevent leaning out from the wall. Goop the snot out of the top of each to let water run off, instead of behind.

Might even look at something galvanized like a fence post top rail, or maybe electrical superstrut. No chance of wood rot or wood insects and may not cost all that much more due to the lack of ongoing maintenance.