The holidays are a time for cheer, cocoa, and yes—twinkling lights. But as magical as it all looks, installing those festive decorations isn’t as simple as grabbing a ladder and a few extension cords. In fact, believing some of the common myths around holiday light installation can lead to extra costs, safety hazards, or major frustration.
Here are five myths homeowners fall for—and why trusting the pros (like Top Roof!) is a brighter idea.
Myth #1: Any Lights Will Do—They’re All the Same Anyway
Truth: Not all holiday lights are created equal. Those dollar-store string lights might look like a deal now, but cheap lights often have poor insulation, weak wiring, and no safety certifications. They burn out faster and can pose fire hazards—especially in wet or snowy weather like we get in Western New York.
✅ Tip: Look for UL-listed outdoor-rated LED lights. They use less power, last longer, and stay cooler—making them safer all around.
Myth #2: It’s Fine to Use Indoor Lights Outdoors
Truth: Big no-no. Indoor lights are not weather-resistant and can become shock hazards when exposed to rain or snow. Using them outside is a surefire way to risk a short circuit—or worse, a fire.
💡 Pro tip: Outdoor lights are built to handle tough conditions. If the box doesn’t say “outdoor rated,” don’t use them on your roof or trees.
Myth #3: You Don’t Need a Plan—Just Start Hanging
Truth: Without a design plan, you’re more likely to waste time, use more clips than necessary, or end up with lopsided or patchy lighting. And if you’re working with multiple colors or patterns, you could create a chaotic mess instead of a festive masterpiece.
🎯 Planning your layout in advance (or working with a pro who does) saves time, materials, and guarantees a beautiful display.
Myth #4: You Can Hang Lights On Your Roof However You Want
Truth: Improperly hanging lights on your shingles, gutters, or fascia can damage your home’s exterior. Staples or nails can break the weatherproof barrier on your roof, leading to leaks—especially with snow melt or winter rain.
🚫 Avoid stapling into anything structural. Instead, use commercial-grade light clips that are made for siding, gutters, or eaves.
Myth #5: DIY Is Always Cheaper
Truth: Not exactly. By the time you buy enough safe lights, extension cords, clips, timers, and replacement bulbs—and spend your weekend on a ladder—you might not be saving that much. Especially if something goes wrong and causes damage.
👷♂️ Hiring a professional ensures your display is done quickly, safely, and beautifully—with no need to store tangled lights all year.
🎄 Want the Brightest Holiday on the Block?
At Top Roof, we make holiday lighting stress-free and spectacular. From rooftops to railings, we create custom light displays that wow—without you ever stepping foot on a ladder.
✅ Safe installation
✅ Custom designs to match your style
✅ Energy-efficient LED lights
✅ Hassle-free takedown after the season
📞 Book your holiday lighting service now! Let’s make your home the envy of the neighborhood—safely, affordably, and brilliantly.
