As the festive season approaches, many homeowners have one question on their minds: Whether to grab a ladder and install the lighting or just hire professional installers for their Christmas light installation. While DIY Christmas light installation promises to be a fun family project, getting a pro light installer can save you from a lot of hassle and maybe a wobbly ladder (you know where that could lead to).
So, let us explore into what each option might cost you, and figure out which one could be the better deal for your holiday lighting installation.
Christmas Light Installation Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional
Let’s start with DIY. The average cost of a DIY Christmas light installation in the USA generally ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the scale and complexity of the setup. This estimate includes the cost of purchasing lights, extension cords, and various mounting hardware such as clips and hooks. The price can vary based on the length and types of lights used—LED lights are more expensive but energy-efficient and longer-lasting compared to incandescent bulbs. Additionally, if you need to rent or buy a ladder, this will add to the overall expense.
When it comes to professional Christmas light installation services cost, most homeowners can anticipate an average cost of approximately $420 for professional Christmas light installation. This price typically covers the installation of lights along the roofline and the wrapping of a few trees in the front yard. However, the total cost can vary significantly based on the size of your home. For instance, decorating a small single-story house generally costs between $250 and $700.
On the other hand, professional Christmas light installation cost on average-sized two-story home ranges from $400 to $1,200. For larger properties, such as a three-story home, the complexity and scale of the installation can drive costs up to between $700 and $1,800. Factors contributing to these variations include the height and intricacy of the setup, as well as any additional features or customizations requested.
Average Professional Christmas Light Installation Cost | |
Single Story Home | $250 to $700 |
Double Story Home | $400 to $1200 |
Triple Story Home | $700 to $1800 |
It is worth mentioning that the cost of incandescent lights is about $5 to $30 per strand. However, this average cost can get much higher when you buy them close to the holiday season. On the other hand, LED lights can cost about $13 to $25 per strand. However, they are much preferred nowadays since they are more energy efficient and can last several seasons with proper care.
DIY Christmas Light Installation: Pros and Cons
When it comes to installing Christmas string lights yourself, one of the biggest benefits is the potential savings. You have the freedom to shop for the most affordable lighting options, whether through online sales, thrift stores, or even second-hand finds that cost a fraction of the price of new ones. In addition, a DIY approach allows you to unleash your holiday decoration creativity, tailoring the decorations to perfectly match your personal style and vision. It can also become a fun and memorable family activity, especially when you get the kids involved in the holiday lighting display.
That said, it is essential to consider all the costs involved with outdoor lights for holiday displays. Beyond the price of lights and decorations, there are expenses for necessary tools and equipment, and you will need to factor in the time it takes to do the holiday light installation job yourself.
Here is a quick look at the pros and cons of DIY Christmas light installation.
Pros
- Cost Savings: Generally less expensive than professional light installer services.
- Custom Design: Freedom to create any desired lighting arrangement.
- Satisfaction: There is personal fulfillment from completing the stunning lighting display project.
- Flexibility: Ability to adjust or redesign the festive lights as needed.
- A Fun Family Activity: It is a great way to spend quality time with the family and create traditions.
- Skill Building: It gives an opportunity to learn and improve home improvement skills.
Cons
- Time-Consuming: It requires a significant time investment.
- Safety Risks: There is an increased risk of falls, electrical accidents, or injuries.
- Technical Challenges: There is certain level of difficulty with electrical wiring and securing lights properly.
- Physical Demand: It can be physically taxing, particularly on larger homes like double or three stories properties.
- Maintenance: Usually maintenance or other technical issues do arise over time.
Professional Christmas Light Installation: Pros and Cons
Opting for professional Christmas light installation offers several advantages to homeowners. Primarily, professional holiday light installations provide something that is very underrated nowadays: a peace of mind. After all, the outdoor lighting experts provide a hassle-free experience as they handle every aspect of the pro light installation from start to finish.
Christmas light professionals bring their expertise in design concepts that ensure the outdoor xmas lights are installed safely and securely, reducing the risk of accidents and electrical issues. Additionally, they offer access to high-quality lights and intricate design techniques for creating elaborate and visually stunning displays. For instance, at Professional Holiday Decorators, our team of local holiday lighting installers brings your vision to life with a comprehensive range of services. From creating breathtaking light displays and bespoke installations to sophisticated landscape lighting, we handle every detail with precision. Our commitment to customization ensures that every aspect of your holiday décor reflects your unique style and vision.
Pros
- Years of Expertise: Our holiday light professionals ensure safe and secure seasonal light installation with unmatched professional skill.
- High-Quality Materials: From procurement to installation, they provides access to premium lights and advanced techniques.
- Ultimate Convenience: Saves time and effort, offering a hassle-free experience.
- Timeliness: There is guarantee that your home will be decorated promptly for the holidays.
- Customization: Offers extensive design options tailored to your vision. Moreover, the professionals are more than capable of executing intricate and elaborate light displays
- Peace of Mind: Includes comprehensive setup, takedown, and maintenance.
- Safety: This is the most important one. They reduce the risks associated with DIY Christmas lighting installations, such as falls and electrical issues.
Cons
- Higher Cost: With professional Christmas lighting installation, you can expect to pay more.
- Scheduling: Potential delays or limited availability during peak times is an issue many homeowners face.
When is the Best Time To Hire A Professional Holiday Light Installation Company?
As one of the leading professional holiday light installation companies in New York, we start offering our residential and commercial holiday lighting installation services early in Suffolk County, Nassau County, and Long Island. We recommend getting your free design consultation as soon as possible to get the best rates.
Are you considering hiring a professional Christmas light contractor near you? Get in touch with our team today to schedule your consult. We look forward to hearing from you soon and helping to deliver a dazzling display by our professional holiday light installation team.