Christmas light installation can be a dangerous and time-consuming DIY project.
This guide shows simple ways to avoid getting hurt and how to safely hang Christmas lights this year. From ladders to extension cords, get the know-how to decorate safely this season.
If you’ve ever tried to put up Christmas lights by yourself, you know it’s no walk in the park. You’re juggling ladders and strings of lights, worrying about electrical hazards and wondering how it will all look when you’re done. It’s enough to make you dread the whole process.
But there’s a better way to do Christmas light installation.
Professional Christmas light installation services can transform your home this holiday season while taking the stress out of decorating. This guide covers everything you need to know about hiring a professional installer so you can enjoy the magic of Christmas without any hassle or headache.
Christmas Lights Installation: DIY vs. Professional Services Comparison
There’s nothing quite like seeing your home aglow with twinkling Christmas lights. But as any seasoned decorator knows, getting those lights just right can be a challenge.
That’s where professional Christmas light installation services come in.
Do it yourself installation is one of the most dangerous household activities, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Even the most cautious homeowners risk life and limb each year when they tackle this DIY project.
That’s where professional Christmas light installation services shine. These experts take all the guesswork (and danger) out of holiday decorating.
Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of both methods.
DIY Christmas Light Installation
Pros
- Save money by doing it yourself
- Control the design and placement of lights
- Instant gratification from finishing the project
Cons
- High risk of injury (falling from ladders, electrical shock, etc.)
- Time-consuming and frustrating
- Requires equipment (ladders, electrical tools, etc.)
- Weather and environmental factors can damage your lights
Professional Christmas Light Installation Services
Pros
- Completely safe, with trained professionals handling the installation
- Time-saving: No ladder-climbing, untangling, or arguing with your partner over how many lights are too many.
- Professional installers use high-quality materials and lights that will last for years
- Can handle complex designs and difficult installations
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than doing it yourself
- Less control over the final look
- Design process can take some time
DIY Christmas Light Installation: Safety Tips
Before you start wrapping your home in holiday cheer, there are a few safety tips you should know to avoid accidents.
Electricity is not your friend. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, especially around Christmas lights. Make sure all of your outdoor outlets are in good working condition and have no water damage.
Be careful with ladders. Falls from ladders are a common holiday decorating injury. Use a sturdy ladder with someone holding the bottom steady while you’re on top. And never overreach; it’s not worth the risk.
Don’t overload outlets or extension cords. This is a big one! Avoid plugging too many lights into the same outlet or daisy-chaining extension cords together. It can cause fires.
If your lights get damaged, throw them out and start fresh. Cracked bulbs or frayed wires can shock you or start a fire. It’s better to be safe than sorry and buy new lights.
Keep your pets and children away from electrical cords and outlets. And never leave your lights plugged in when you’re not home or before you go to bed.
When to Call the Pros for Christmas Light Installation
Almost 90% of households in the United States decorate with Christmas lights during the holiday season. Many of those homeowners are discovering that professional installation is the smarter, safer choice.
Your best bet is to call a professional installer if:
- You don’t have the time or patience to do it yourself
- Your design plans are complex or intricate
- You have a two-story (or more) home
- You want high-quality, commercial-grade lights that last
- You want it done quickly and safely
Professional installation averages around $420 depending on your home’s size and design complexity. When you factor in the safety risks, time investment, and equipment costs of DIY installation, professional services become an excellent value.
For homeowners seeking expert help, Christmas light installation in Louisville offers professional services that deliver stunning results. Expert installers understand local homes and can create custom displays that transform properties into winter wonderlands.
Professional Christmas Light Installation Services: Final Thoughts
Installing Christmas lights yourself can be a dangerous and frustrating DIY project. With ladder climbs, tangled cords, and electrical hazards, it’s no wonder many people dread decorating each year.
But there’s a better way to get your home glowing for the holidays. Professional Christmas light installation services can take all the stress out of decorating while transforming your home into a winter wonderland.
The Christmas decorations market reached $8.1 billion in 2023, reflecting the growing demand for quality holiday displays. Hiring pros is the safer, smarter way to decorate this season. So save yourself the hassle and head to the professionals this year. Your home (and your family) will thank you.
FAQ
Do you take Christmas lights down?
Yes, professional services typically include removal. In fact, many installers will haul them away for storage until next year so you don’t have to worry about it!
How do I know if my Christmas lights are energy-efficient?
The best way to ensure you’re getting energy-efficient Christmas lights is to purchase LED bulbs. They use far less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs and will save you money on your energy bill.
Are Christmas lights safe to leave on all night?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe to leave your Christmas lights on all night as long as they’re in good condition and you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re using old, damaged bulbs or extension cords, it’s best to unplug them at night.
What are some popular Christmas light design trends for this year?
Some popular trends include color-coordinated lights, flickering bulbs, icicle lights, and even snow-covered looks!
Can you come out and design a plan for my house?
Yes! Most professional services offer free design consultations to help you create the perfect holiday lighting scheme for your home.
What type of lights do you recommend using outside?
For outdoor Christmas lights, LED bulbs are recommended. They’re much more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and will last longer too!
Can I install the lights myself if I change my mind?
Of course! Many companies are happy to provide you with all of the materials needed for installation and leave the rest up to you. Just let them know if you have any questions along the way.
Are the lights hardwired into my home?
No, professional Christmas lights are not hardwired into your home. Installers simply hang them from hooks or attach them to gutters. They’ll be easily removable when you’re ready to take them down!
Do you offer any discounts or specials on Christmas lights?
Many companies offer a variety of discounts and specials on Christmas lights throughout the season! Be sure to ask about current promotions when you call to schedule your installation.
