Professional vs. DIY permanent lighting
A DIY kit usually costs less upfront. Professional installation adds the measuring, fitting, wiring, setup, and installation coverage. The right choice depends on your roofline, budget, and how much of the work you want to take on.
We install permanent lighting, but a DIY kit can make sense for some homes. Here are the practical differences to consider before choosing.
What you're paying for
A kit price covers the products listed in that kit. Our installed price is $22 to $35 per linear foot and includes the lights, track, controller, installation, and app setup.
To compare the options, include any extra materials, equipment, installation time, and future troubleshooting a DIY project would require.
Five things worth weighing before you decide:
- Your time. You'll need to measure the roofline, plan the layout, fit the system, and set up the controls. The time involved depends on the kit and the house.
- Equipment. Think about how you'll safely reach each part of the roofline and whether you have suitable equipment and experience.
- Installation coverage. Check what the kit's warranty covers and how it treats installation-related damage. Professional workmanship coverage should also be reviewed before you choose an installer.
- Troubleshooting. Decide who you want to diagnose an issue and arrange a repair if something stops working.
- Fit and finish. Track placement, corners, wiring, and fasteners affect how the finished system looks during the day.
Side by side
| DIY kit | Professional install | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Usually lower upfront | $22 to $35 per linear foot with us |
| Your time | Installation and setup time | Time for the measurement and handover |
| Height and access | You plan and carry out the work | The installation crew handles the work |
| Fit and finish | Depends on the system and installation | Included in the installation scope |
| Track color | Depends on the kit's options | Selected to complement your trim |
| Labor warranty | Review the kit's installation exclusions | Our workmanship warranty, subject to its terms |
| Component warranty | Depends on the manufacturer and kit | 50,000 hours on the lights |
| Fault in year three | Troubleshoot or arrange help | Contact us for diagnosis and applicable coverage |
| Single-story simple roofline | May be suitable with the right skills and equipment | Can be professionally installed |
| Two-story, multiple gables | More demanding access and installation | Assessed during the measurement visit |
A DIY kit may suit you if
- Your roofline is straightforward to reach and follow
- You have suitable skills and equipment for the work at height
- You're happy to follow the system's installation instructions
- You have time for the installation and any later maintenance
- Your budget favors doing the work yourself
Professional installation may suit you if
- Your roofline is two-story, steep, or has several gables and direction changes
- You'd rather not carry out work at height yourself
- You want the daytime appearance handled as part of the installation
- You want one company accountable for the finished result
- You'd rather not spend your weekends on it
Think about maintenance, too
Installation is only part of the decision. Think about who you want to troubleshoot the system if a section stops working later. If you enjoy that kind of project, it may be part of the appeal of DIY. If you'd prefer help, ask an installer how service works and what the warranty covers.
Compare it with an installed quote
We'll measure your roofline for free and explain what our installation includes.
GET A FREE QUOTE →Also worth reading: what professional installation costs and what the installation involves.