When it comes to great ways to celebrate the festive season, Christmas decorations and lights are amongst the most beloved traditions. While putting up and taking down seasonal decorations can be part of the fun, it also requires time and effort each year.
This is where permanent Christmas lights come into play, as they offer a convenient and visually appealing solution that enhances the look and feel of your home throughout the year, and not just during the holidays.
Permanent Christmas lights do what they say on the tin, they are lights that are installed once and can be used around your home all year long. Having this option allows you to avoid the hassle of seasonal installations and removals.
Let’s look at the benefits of installing permanent Christmas lights, along with a step-by-step guide to help you install them.
Why choose permanent Christmas lights?
One of the most significant benefits of permanent Christmas lights is the time and effort they save. Instead of spending hours each holiday season untangling lights, climbing ladders, and braving the cold to install them, it’s a one-time deal. After they are up, you can enjoy beautifully lit decorations with the flip of a switch.
Another benefit is how easy they are to control. These lights are often controlled via a remote, smartphone app, or even a timer, making it easy to turn them on or off or change colors for different occasions.
It is also worth highlighting that permanent Christmas lights are installed in a way that is very neat and discreet. The lights are often tucked under the eaves of your roof, helping them blend seamlessly into your home’s exterior.
A step-by-step installation guide
Once you have decided to have permanent Christmas lights. All you have to do is follow these steps to ensure your lights are installed correctly and provide long-lasting, festive enjoyment.
Start by choosing the right lighting system. The first step in installing permanent Christmas lights is choosing the right system for your home. There are several factors to consider when selecting the lighting setup –
It would be a smart move to opt for LED lights over traditional incandescent bulbs, as they are more energy-efficient, last longer, and are brighter.
Think about programmable options. Many permanent lighting systems allow you to control the colors, brightness, and even the pattern of the lights via a smartphone app. This gives you the flexibility to use your lights for multiple occasions.
You want your lights to be waterproof and weather-resistant. Make sure your lights are designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Look for systems with an IP rating of at least IP65. This rating indicates resistance to water and dust, ensuring durability in harsh weather.
Having chosen your lights, the next step is to measure the area, so you know what you need to purchase. Measure along the eaves of your home, where the lights will be mounted. If you plan to run lights along gutters, measure the perimeter. Also, if you want to accent doors or windows, measure those areas as well.
A good tip would be to add a little extra length to your requirements in order to accommodate for bends and curves. This will ensure you don’t fall short during installation.
Your next step will be to buy all the necessary materials, once you know the length and type of lights you need-
Be sure to choose LED strips that fit your measurements. Also, check on your power adapter option. Check that your lights come with or can be paired with a power source that’s capable of supporting your entire system.
You will also need mounting hardware. Depending on your home’s construction, you may need a range of clips, adhesive strips, or screws, to secure the lights.
If a timer or smart control system is not included, you might want to buy a smart plug or timer for automated control of your lights.
Once you have everything you need, it’s best to plan the installation before you start. Create a detailed plan of how you’ll install the lights. Consider things like where the power source will be located and how the lights will run along your roofline or trim. It’s essential to map out where you’ll start and end the installation, as this will help you achieve an even, seamless look.
Your next step is to prepare the area for your lights. Clean the areas where you’ll be mounting them. Dirt, dust, and debris can prevent adhesive mounts from sticking or cause nails or clips to not hold properly, so it’s best to check everything is clean and ready beforehand.
Now it’s time to install your permanent Christmas lights. Using your chosen mounting hardware, start attaching the lights along the planned path. If using clips, space them out evenly along the roofline or gutters. If you are using adhesive strips, press them firmly into place.
Once this is done, it’s time to connect the power. Run the lights to the nearest suitable power outlet. Alternatively, depending on your lighting system, you may need to install an outdoor power adapter, or even run extension cords.
Next, check everything is nice and secure. Check for any exposed wiring or cords to prevent them from dangling or being pulled out by wind or other external factors. You might need to use extra clips or zip ties to keep everything neatly in place.
Now you know what is involved, you might want to think about hiring a professional to do the job, unless you are confident that your DIY skills can cover all aspects of the installation.
While installing permanent Christmas lights can be a DIY project, it may require some knowledge of electrical systems and safety practices. If you’re uncomfortable with electrical work or working at heights, consider hiring a professional. A licensed contractor can ensure that the lights are installed safely and correctly.
Without a doubt, installing permanent Christmas lights is a fantastic way to enjoy the fun and allure of holiday lights year-round, without the hassle of annual installation and removal. They offer convenience, customization, and energy efficiency, making them a smart investment that can be used not just for Christmas, but any occasion.
By following this guide and steps, you can successfully install permanent lights that will brighten your home for years to come.
