Affordable Holiday Lighting Installation: Tip for Budget-Conscious Homeowners

According to surveys, around 60 percent of Americans install outdoor holiday lights during the holiday season. And given that the cost to install holiday lights can range anywhere from $400 to $3000 for an average-sized home (that’s for two-story homes), it’s no surprise the Christmas lights and decoration market size was valued a whopping $8.1 billion in 2023.

However, for many homeowners, transforming their home into a festive wonderland during the holiday season shouldn’t be financially burdensome and cause undue holiday season stress. The good news is that there are several effective tips for budget-friendly holiday lighting installation. From smart DIY hacks to lesser-known purchasing techniques, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about affordable home lighting installation.

Tip#1: Plan Ahead To Avoid Impulse Buying

There’s no shame in admitting it—we’ve all succumbed to impulse buying at some point, usually because our emotions get the better of us, and not because we’ve planned ahead. So, before you dive into buying holiday lights, it’s crucial to tackle the impulse buying tendency right from the start.

A great way to do this is by drafting a detailed plan for your holiday lights setup including the linear feet of light strands you’ll need and the type of light you’ll include. Figure out which parts of your home you want to light up and the look you’re aiming for. Having a clear holiday lighting project layout in mind helps dodge those impulsive purchases—you’ll know exactly what you need and stick to your plan.

Tip #2: Invest Wisely in Lighting

When you’re shopping for new holiday lights to create your winter wonderland light design, it’s wise to explore cost-effective types of lights alternatives that offer better value for your light display. While traditional incandescent bulbs might catch your eye, opting for LED lighting can be a more economical choice as there are many price ranges in this category. LEDs are not only energy-efficient, which can help lower your electricity bills, but they also have a longer lifespan compared to incandescent bulbs.

And although LEDs might not deliver the same intense brightness as incandescent options, they still provide excellent decoration and vibrant illumination. By choosing LEDs, you can enjoy festive lighting without the added cost and hassle of frequent replacements.

Moreover, we highly recommend considering miniature bulbs. Why we say that? Well, they are more affordable and energy-efficient compared to standard holiday lights. Miniature bulbs can effectively illuminate trees and accentuate walls and fences while being gentle on your wallet.

Another key tip is to explore various budget-friendly options like bargain shops, online sales, and Black Friday deals. Buying lights in bulk can also be a great way to save money, especially if you plan to use them in several areas. In addition, many budget-conscious people like you usually go to thrift stores or garage sales to purchase second-hand lights. It could save you a lot of money since you could buy good-quality lights at a fraction of the cost of new ones. Just be sure to inspect the second-hand lights before purchasing them.

Please Remember: Never use indoor lighting for outdoor decoration. For outdoor installation, always opt for weatherproof outdoor lights.

Tip #3: Consider DIY Holiday Lighting Installation

Now, this tip is a slippery slope (pun intended). DIY holiday light installation can be a good option if you have a small space to decorate or want to get into the holiday spirit while saving on expenses. If you already have the necessary tools for installing your Christmas lights, such as a ladder, extension cords, wire cutters, electrical tape, and zip ties, it’s worth a try. You can also borrow these items from friends or family to save money.

However, be aware that installing lights can be risky, especially if you’re not comfortable working at heights and don’t have the special equipment needed. In such cases, it’s generally safer to hire a holiday light installation company since they have the right tools, safety equipment, and expertise to get the light installation services job done efficiently. Professionals can also offer custom designs and ensure a safe and proper installation. Ultimately, the choice is yours, but we recommend DIY only if you have the appropriate tools, equipment, and experience, as it can save you a significant amount of money.

By the way, if you do opt for the expert, a simple online query like “professional Christmas lights installation near me” would give you the names of some reputable holiday lighting installation companies near you, including us, the Professional Holiday Decorators.

Tip #4: Decorate Trees with Vibrant Lanterns

It’s surprising to us to see how many homeowners overlook the impact that colorful lanterns can have when decorating trees for the holidays. You see, while much attention is given to decorating homes, trees often receive less focus, despite their potential to enhance the festive atmosphere. Hanging vibrant lanterns from trees can transform your outdoor space. Trust the experts at Professional Holiday Decorators, it helps create a warm and inviting ambiance that effortlessly complements the overall holiday vibe.

This underrated aspect of festive lighting not only adds visual interest but also extends the holiday cheer beyond your home’s interior. By incorporating lanterns into your tree decorations, you can elevate your festive holiday decorations display and create a memorable experience for all. And most importantly, it won’t cost you much and still look like you put a considerable amount of time and money into decorating your home.

Tip #5: Take Down Your Lights After the Holidays

Don’t be that person who leaves their holiday lights up for months. This could cause more damage to the lighting than just being an eyesore to others. It’s because the weather (sunlight, snow, or rain) can take a toll on your wires and lights, causing them to wear out or even become unsafe.

It’s a simple thing to do but makes a big difference in keeping your decorations in good shape and avoiding any potential hazards. Plus, taking them down helps your home look neat and ready for the new season (hence saving you money in the future). So, when the holiday’s over, make sure to get those lights down and store them properly. It’s a small task that pays off big time.

Holiday Light Installers Key Takeaway

Honestly, decorating your home with festive lighting can be a blast, from picking out the lights to hanging them up yourself. But remember, safety should always come first. If you’re tackling a house with two or three stories, it’s a good idea to hire a professional light installation expert for your exterior lighting. We hope you’ll consider the Professional Holiday Decorators. We have experienced light installers and the proper equipment to handle the job safely. 

If you have any questions or need guidance making a choice for holiday lighting and exterior holiday lightings in Suffolk and Nassau County, New York, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We offer free design consultations, professional installations and exceptional service. Our professional installers are here to help and can walk you through the entire temporary or permanent light installation process. We offer residential as well as commercial lighting services. Let our installation team ensure your festive seasons decorations are both stunning and safe.

About

Professional Holiday Decorators Long Island

Professional Holiday Decorators of Long Island is here to take the stress and hassle out of decorating your home for the holidays. Our team of expert installers will work with you to create a stunning display that will be the envy of your neighborhood. From traditional lights to custom designs, we have the skills and experience to bring your holiday vision to life. Sit back, relax, and let us handle all the hard work so you can enjoy a beautifully lit home for the holiday season. We offer Residential holiday light installation, Commercial holiday light installation and Permanent holiday light installation. With our attention to detail and top-notch customer service, you can trust us to make your holidays merry and bright.