When deciding to install outdoor holiday lights, consider the costs involved, the materials needed, and any safety concerns. Additionally, you should consider the options available for incandescent and LED lighting. Miniature bulbs are a great budget-friendly alternative. Unlike traditional holiday lights, miniature bulbs require less wattage and use less energy to keep the entire string lit.
Cost of outdoor holiday lighting installation
The cost of outdoor holiday lighting installation can vary greatly. Some companies charge as little as $50 for a single strand, while others charge up to $500 for a multi-story home. Costs also vary depending on the number of linear feet of lights and the type of bulbs you choose. A typical installation project may require 10 to 20 strands of lights.
If you are looking to save money, choose LED lights. They will last longer and use less electricity. They may cost a little more upfront, but they will save you money over time. Also, only light a few areas at a time. You may want to purchase lights in advance during off-seasons and use them during the holiday season.
Materials needed
Before beginning your holiday light installation project, make sure you have all of the necessary tools and materials. First, you need to sketch out a plan and a shopping list. You’ll need 16-gauge extension cords, an in-line circuit breaker, and multiple outlet plugs. Choose landscape cords, which are green and are less visible when they’re hidden behind shrubs and grass. You may also want to invest in electrical tape or plastic bags to secure the ends of the cords.
Another thing you’ll need is a ladder. Many holiday lighting installation projects require access to hard-to-reach places. A good ladder can help you get up on tall roofs and other areas. You’ll also need insulated holders, which will help protect the lights from freezing at night. Be sure to turn off your lights when not in use and stay away from trees that may come in contact with power lines.
Incandescent vs LED options
When choosing holiday lighting for your outdoor space, you should consider both incandescent and LED options. LED lights offer a crisper, more colorful glow and should not get too hot. They can be installed using all-purpose light clips or deck clips. Incandescent lights have a warm, yellow glow. While LED lights have a more blue-white color, some people find them too harsh.
Incandescent lights are inexpensive to produce and widely available. They also have the lowest energy efficiency. The biggest drawbacks are their low lifespan and the energy they use to produce heat. Incandescent lights also require a large number of bulbs to equal the lifespan of a comparable LED bulb.
Hire a professional for installation
Whether you’re looking to install a Christmas tree, a few lights, or a large display, it’s always better to hire a professional for the job. Whether you’re unsure how to get started, or just want to make sure you get it right, hiring a professional is an excellent idea. They’ll know what they’re doing and will be able to do the job quickly and efficiently.
Another good reason to hire a professional for outdoor holiday lighting installation is for your own safety. Installing lights on a roof is dangerous, and it may require you to use a ladder or other dangerous equipment. Professionals are trained to be careful around electrical wiring and will use safety harnesses to protect you from harm.
