Get matched with top holiday decorators in Shell Rock, IA

Christmas lights typically do not need to be grounded like electrical circuits in your home do. However, it's crucial to use outdoor outlets equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) for added safety. GFCIs can help protect against electrical shocks and are recommended for outdoor electrical connections when using Christmas lights.

For a 7-foot-tall column, choose a light strand that is at least 32 feet long. You’ll also need to measure the distance from the column to the closest outlet to get outdoor extension cords that are the right length.

The average cost to have a professional install Christmas lights on a roof is about $420, with most homeowners spending between $220 and $650. Some companies may charge between $1.25 and $3 per square foot, excluding the cost of the lights. For extensive or complex jobs, the cost can exceed $1,000. While doing it yourself can save money, it is only recommended if you are comfortable working at heights.

Ensure you have a safe environment for them to work on, and there aren’t items such as logs, build-up of yard materials, missing or damaged shingles, and weak areas on the roof. Communicate any known electrical issues with contractors at the beginning of the project, and consider hiring an electrician to fix those. Finally, if you are attempting the project yourself, do so when there isn’t any rain, and you can safely get your footing on the roof using proper equipment, such as an extension ladder. Don’t attempt this alone, and have a helper nearby to assist.