Permanent lighting vs. seasonal installation
Permanent lighting has a higher upfront installation cost. Seasonal service spreads the cost across the years you book it. The better fit depends on your budget, how long you expect to stay, and whether you want lighting beyond Christmas.
We install permanent lighting. Here's how it compares with hiring a crew to hang and remove seasonal lights each year.
The two options
With seasonal service, you book installation and takedown for the holidays. Storage, ownership of the lights, and repairs depend on the company and package.
With permanent lighting, the system stays attached to your home. You change colors and schedules from the app and can use it throughout the year.
Compare the costs over time
Start with your own seasonal bill, including any takedown and storage fees. Then compare it with a quote for the same roofline coverage.
| Step | What to use |
|---|---|
| 1. Your annual seasonal spend | What you paid last December, including takedown and storage |
| 2. Your permanent cost | Your roofline footage multiplied by our rate, or the quote we give you |
| 3. Years to compare | Step 2 divided by step 1 |
For example, a $3,600 permanent installation equals six annual seasonal bills of $600. This is an illustrative comparison, not a forecast of total ownership cost. It assumes the seasonal price stays the same and excludes electricity, financing, maintenance, and repairs for either option.
If you also want everyday or holiday lighting throughout the year, factor that use into your decision. The value of that convenience is personal.
Side by side
| Seasonal installation | Permanent lighting | |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Cost for the season's service | Cost of the installed system |
| Ongoing cost | Installation and takedown when booked; other charges depend on the package | Electricity and any applicable service, repair, or financing costs |
| Ownership | Depends on the provider's agreement | You own the installed system, subject to any financing terms |
| Ladder work | The installation crew handles the work | The installation crew handles the work |
| Booking | Arrange each season's service | Arrange the initial installation and service when needed |
| Design changes | Depends on the lights and service package | Change supported colors and settings in the app |
| Use outside Christmas | Depends on the service and setup | Available throughout the year |
| Daytime appearance | Strands while installed | Low-profile track remains on the house |
| Moving | Depends on the service agreement | The system generally stays with the home |
| Repairs | Depends on the service agreement | Depends on the fault and applicable coverage |
When seasonal service may suit you
- You expect to move before long. Permanent lighting stays with the house, so weigh the installation cost against the time you plan to be there.
- You want a different, elaborate display each year. Wreaths, garlands, ground displays, and animated figures are not what a roofline system does.
- You only light a short section. A smaller annual bill takes longer to compare with an installation cost.
- You're renting, or the exterior isn't yours to modify.
- Your HOA prohibits permanent exterior fixtures. Worth checking before you get quotes from anyone.
When permanent lighting may suit you
- You want the roofline lit throughout the year, not only in December
- You expect to stay in the home
- You'd rather change colors and schedules from an app than book a service
- You'd like to skip the annual installation appointment
- You want to change the look using the same installed system
See what permanent lighting would cost
We'll measure your roofline and prepare a free quote so you can compare it with your seasonal options.
GET A FREE QUOTE →Also worth reading: what permanent lighting costs and professional versus DIY systems.