🎄 The Hidden Costs of DIY Christmas Lighting: A Hard-Learned Holiday Lesson

I used to be the guy who did it all myself.

Every year, as soon as the weather turned cooler and Christmas music started creeping into the background, I’d drag out the tangled tubs of lights from the garage. I had good intentions. Save some money, do it my way, and light up the house like the ones you see in commercials.

But after a few years—and more than a few headaches—I realized the true cost of DIY Christmas lighting had little to do with money. Here’s what I wish someone had told me before I ever climbed that first ladder.

⏳ 1. It’ll Cost You More Time Than You Think

One year, I spent nearly an entire Saturday just prepping. Testing bulbs, detangling wires, sorting clips, running to the hardware store because I was short on extension cords. And I still wasn’t finished.

By the time I actually started hanging lights, it was late in the day, I was tired, and honestly—I rushed. Every time I looked at the roof, I saw crooked lines and sagging strands. I told myself I’d fix it next weekend. (I didn’t.)

When you’re busy with work, family, and the holidays themselves, giving up your entire weekend for this just doesn’t feel worth it anymore.

Category	DIY Store-Bought	Lightz by Zack
Lights (5 strands)	$99.90 — Pre-cut, color mismatch, wires show	Included — Custom cut to fit roof perfectly
Extension Cords	$47.81 — 4 cords to connect sections	Included — Exact length, low-profile cords
Clips	$8.97 — Basic plastic (often brittle)	Included — Commercial-grade, secure and reusable
Timer	$19.98 — Basic outdoor plug timer	Included — Weatherproof, programmable timer
Total Materials	$176–$190	$250 flat — Premium materials (labor not included)
Quality & Lifespan	1–2 years — often need replacing	10+ years — commercial-grade bulbs and wire
Warranty	None	Full coverage — bulbs and wire replaced if needed
Maintenance	You handle failures, tangles, breakage annually	Included — Peace of mind, we handle it all
Safety	Risky ladder work, ice on roofs, electrical hazards	Handled by insured professionals — safety first

"Zack is our go-to. He's been a pleasure to work with for years now, and I can't recommend him enough. He shows up when he says he will, the pricing is transparent, and the customer service is unmatched!" -Sam

⚡ 2. The Lights Look Cheaper—Because They Are

Those big-box lights might seem like a deal, but they burn out fast, break in storage, and fade in brightness after just a couple of seasons. I found myself replacing strands constantly, and no matter how hard I tried, I could never quite match the look from one year to the next.

Eventually, I learned the hard truth: you get what you pay for. Professional-grade lights are cut to fit your home perfectly, they’re brighter, more durable, and they just look… well, better.

3. It’s Not Just Frustrating—It’s Risky

I wish I could say I made it through every season without a scare, but I had my fair share of near-slips on the roof and sketchy ladder moments. I wasn’t being reckless—I was just trying to get it done. But even being careful, it’s easy to lose focus or overreach.

Thousands of people end up in the ER every holiday season because of ladder accidents. When I became a dad, it finally clicked—no light display is worth that kind of risk.

📦 4. You Still Have to Take It All Down

No one tells you how unmotivated you’ll feel in January. It’s cold. You’re tired. And yet there it all is: drooping lights, busted clips, and wires frozen to the roof.

I used to cram them in a tote, knowing full well I’d regret it next year. And I did.

So What’s the Better Option?

Eventually, I stopped trying to DIY it all. I realized what I really wanted was a beautiful display I could be proud of—without the stress, danger, or time commitment. That’s why I started offering something different for families who felt the same.

At Lightz by Zack, we created the Merry & Bright Package to give you the holiday home you want—without sacrificing your weekends or safety. An all-inclusive, turn-key service that lets you focus on the holiday memories.

We take care of:

• Designing a custom layout that fits your home

• Using high-end, commercial-grade lights that outshine anything at the store

• Safe, professional installation (no risky ladder climbs)

• In-season maintenance

• Removal and climate-protected storage until next year

  
  

🎁 Want to skip the stress and light up your home the easy way this year? Let’s make this your brightest, most relaxing Christmas yet. Your not just asking for someone to hang lights, you're also getting peace of mind that lasts all season.

👉 Click here to request your free estimate.