When it comes to decorating your home for the holidays, permanent holiday lighting has become increasingly popular. Not only does it add a festive touch to your home during the holiday season, but it can also be used year-round for various occasions. If you’re considering this investment, you might be wondering whether to go for a DIY solution or hire a professional. One of the main factors to consider is cost. Let’s break down the differences.

DIY Permanent Holiday Lighting

Cost: Approximately $3 per linear foot

Pros:

• Affordability: The most significant advantage of the DIY approach is the cost. At around $3 per linear foot, DIY permanent holiday lighting is a fraction of the cost of professional installations.
• Flexibility: You have complete control over the design and installation process, allowing you to customize your lighting to suit your personal preferences and schedule.
• Bright, Vibrant Colors: The DIY product features very bright LED lights that create vibrant colors, comparable to professional products.

Cons:

• No Color-Matched Track: Professional installations come with a color-matched track that blends seamlessly into your home, minimizing visible wires and protecting the wiring. The DIY product does not offer this.
• No Warm White Option: While the DIY lights offer vibrant colors, they do not include a warm white option, which might be a limitation for some users.
• Time-Consuming: Installing permanent holiday lights yourself can be time-intensive, especially if you're not familiar with the process.
• Potential for Errors: Without professional experience, there is a risk of making mistakes that could affect the appearance and longevity of your lighting setup.
• Maintenance: You are responsible for any maintenance or repairs, which can be challenging if issues arise.

Customized, Professionally Installed Permanent Holiday Lighting

Cost: Approximately $24 per linear foot

Pros:

• Color-Matched Track: Professional installations come with a color-matched track that blends seamlessly into your home, minimizing visible wires and protecting the wiring.
• Protected Lights: The track, made of color-matched aluminum, holds the lights in the right place relative to the fascia for maximum holiday-lighting effect, also providing protection to the lights.
• Expert Installation: Professional installers have the experience and expertise to ensure your lights are installed correctly and safely.
• High-Quality Materials: Professionals often use higher-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and last longer.
• Convenience: Hiring a professional saves you time and effort, as they handle the entire installation process, from design to implementation.
• Maintenance and Support: Many professional services offer maintenance and support, ensuring your lights remain in perfect condition throughout the year.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: The primary disadvantage of professional installation is the cost. At around $24 per linear foot, it’s significantly more expensive than the DIY option.
• Less Control: While professionals aim to meet your design preferences, you might have less direct control over the final result compared to doing it yourself.

Making the Decision

Ultimately, the choice between DIY and professional installation depends on your budget, time, and personal preferences. If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution and are willing to invest some time and effort, DIY permanent holiday lighting is a fantastic option. However, if you prefer a hassle-free experience with guaranteed results, the higher cost of professional installation might be worth the investment.

At Astorialighting.com, we offer a range of DIY permanent holiday lighting products that are easy to install and provide beautiful, customizable lighting solutions at an affordable price. Explore our products today and start creating your perfect holiday lighting display!

If the professional version is a better fit for your needs, please visit us at astorialightingco.com/locations and see if you are in our service area.