Even the most placid people can become detectives looking for that one dead bulb when they put up holiday lights. Things get real at some point between the first cup of eggnog and the last extension cord. Maybe you want to make people who walk by slow down and smile—not blind them, but surely impress them. The fastest way to get to magic? Professionals that know how to use a timer and work on roofs. Visit our website for more information!
Set a date on your calendar soon. Installers are like Santa’s elves during rush hour: they work quickly, do a good job, and leave right away. If you wait until your neighbors are already flashing, you’ll have to deal with leftovers or, worse, wait until December. Here’s a tip: start calling the day after Halloween. That’s when the best people still have some openings, but not for long.
Let’s talk about money and sense. Your cousin’s friend might not charge you much to put up some lights, that’s for sure. But do you want to take the chance of having uneven icicles and twinkling stars? Think “magazine cover” instead of “yard sale leftovers” when you think of how to balance lines and color. Always inquire first: What is included? Are taking down and storing things included? You don’t want to spend New Year’s Day tugging strands off of frozen hedges.
It’s OK to be ambitious, but you don’t have to compete with city hall. Tell us about your dream. Is it a full-on glow or a soft sparkle? Your installer can do a good job as long as you offer them a clear picture (phones chew up photos for a purpose). Also, talk about safety. Shingles that are slippery and wires that are out of place can quickly ruin your party. A good professional comes with insurance and a plan for every peak and gutter.
There are war stories out there. One neighbor spent the whole afternoon fighting a hopeless bunch of string lights. The specialists came, untangled everything, and made way for the old inflatable snowman. Everyone rejoiced, the lights worked, and the only item that got stuck was the family cat.
Also, think green. Some lights use a lot of power, like a sieve, while others, like LEDs, keep your bill low and your conscience pure. Ask what kind of bulbs go up. Don’t wait until January to be shocked by the prices.
Keep talking to the workers. Show a photo of a look you loved (or hated) from the past. This takes away a lot of guessing. Most installers are happy to make changes until you are happy, and honesty always wins.
Set a date, write out your goals, voice any worries, and before you know it, you’ll be free of ladder problems for the whole season. All you have to do is grab a cup, enjoy the glimmer, and maybe enjoy being the reason people stop to take a picture. That’s the light that everyone should have.