Introduction

Over the last 15 years, holiday lighting has undergone a remarkable evolution, moving from traditional incandescent bulbs to LED lights, and now to permanent, color-changing fixtures.

This innovation offers homeowners a flexible solution, not just for Christmas, but for any holiday, special events, game days, and even for security or architectural purposes. Opting for permanent lighting means saying goodbye to the annual hassle of hanging Christmas lights.

The Basics of Permanent Holiday Lighting

green LED permanent lighting on house installed an soffit

Permanent lighting transcends the chaotic charm of Clark Griswold’s Christmas lights setup. Instead, it features LED bulbs mounted on aluminum tracks or fitted into gutters, designed to withstand the elements and last a lifetime. These tracks are often color-matched to the house for a seamless integration.

Installation Process

Installation starts with a precise mapping of the house to calculate the necessary materials. Selecting the right spot for the control box, typically near a power outlet in the garage or outside, is crucial. Mapping out power points is also essential to avoid dimming issues.

Professional installation is key, as I learned from my personal experience installing lights at my grandma's house after working for two months at Trimlight. While there are DIY options, the complexity can be underestimated.

Caution is advised against hiring new, inexperienced companies or installers with insufficient training, as improper installation can lead to premature failure or even safety hazards like fire. Drilling and wire management must be handled carefully to maintain a clean look and ensure durability and safety.

How It Works

The industry, still in its infancy, shows a lack of innovation with many companies offering similar technologies. Lights typically come in single color, RGB, or RGBW options, with control systems ranging from local Bluetooth to advanced options that combine Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for remote management through a smartphone app. This technology allows for color changes, pattern creation, and timer settings.

Maintenance and Durability

LED lights boast a lifespan of 20,000 to 50,000 hours, with aluminum tracks outlasting the less durable vinyl options. The importance of UV-rated wiring cannot be overstated, as unprotected wires degrade quickly under exposure to sunlight.

Bulbs rated for 50,000+ hours promise over 30 years of service, assuming nightly use for 4-5 hours at full intensity. This longevity is a testament to the cost-effectiveness and durability of permanent lighting solutions.

Cost and Energy Efficiency

The investment in permanent lighting pays for itself within five years when considering Christmas alone. When utilized for various holidays, the payback period can be as short as the first year. The low-voltage system and LED technology ensure energy efficiency and minimal impact on the power bill, while also avoiding damage to shingles and gutters caused by traditional installation methods.

Conclusion

Permanent lighting is a superior choice for enhancing home security and celebrating a multitude of occasions. Professional installation is recommended for the best outcome. For those considering a DIY approach, be aware of the potential challenges.

Properly installed, these lights provide exceptional nighttime beauty and are nearly invisible during the day. They're ideal for every celebration and serve as a deterrent to unwelcome visitors, making them an indispensable addition to any home.

When choosing your lighting solution, remember that the installer's skill is just as crucial as the product's quality. Avoid the pitfalls of poor installation by considering Glo Lights. As a family-owned, Utah-based company with over a decade in the industry, we guarantee top-quality products and service. In a market filled with unreliable options, why take the risk?