I once observed my neighbor Dan waste four weekends courting a ladder and a mess of lights. The grand finish? Half the roof glowing, the other half looked dead. He vowed never again DIY right there. Holiday lighting companies are made for times like that.
Start with precaution. EVERLIGHTS
Insist on proof of liability insurance and workers’ comp. No documents, no climbing. Simple. Professionals bring stabilizers, harnesses, and clips that protect your materials. They map circuits. They test GFCIs. They handle your roof with utmost care. They keep gutters safe.
Good crews plan before they climb. Show daytime photos of your house. Request a quick mockup or at least a bulb sample on the eaves. White tones or colorful mixes change the mood a lot. Want a unique look? Combine C9 on the roofline with mini LEDs in shrubs and a striking wreath on the peak.
Timing matters. Book early, before turkey season hits. Ask how many installs a crew handles per day and who shows up if wind knocks a strand loose. Storm service windows should be defined. You want someone to respond quickly and return. Agree on terms and ensure post-install support is actually available.
Gear choices can cut costs. LED outshines incandescent by a mile. Dimmable strands and RGB pixels add flair, though they require clean power and tidy routing. Discuss scheduling options. Old school photocells work. Smart plugs let you run scenes and sunrise shutoffs. Keep an eye on total amp draw. Split loads, use outdoor-rated cords, and mind GFCI trips in wet weather.
Now for the costs. Some companies offer rentals, then include takedown and off-season storage. Others require purchase and charge labor each year. Prices vary by roof pitch, linear feet, and the circus tricks your house demands. Know exactly what you get: install, timers, clips, service calls, removal, storage. No one likes mystery fees. A modest deposit is normal; full payment up front is not.
Permits come into play for big displays or big trees near streets. HOAs have restrictions. Confirm color limits and dates for turn-on and take-down. Address surfaces. Tile roofs, old brick, and flaky paint need gentle methods. No staples in live trees. Use clips, wraps, and padded hooks. After install, do a walk-through at dusk. Check symmetry, drip loops, and cable tension. Rain arrives, and water sneaks. Plan for it.
Watch for trouble spots. Vague quotes. Cash-only demands. No ladder footing. Too-good deals from trucks with no markings. Good indicators are easy to spot. Clean coils of wire. Labeled bins. Spare fuses in a pocket. A lead who smiles, then fixes the crooked line without a speech. That pride is worth the bill.