What does it mean if half my string of lights is flashing?

• <div><p>The most likely cause of accidentally flashing lights is that a regular bulb has been replaced with a flash bulb by accident. If that’s not the case, you should look for a bulb on the strand that is not quite seated properly and will lose its connection when it’s touched or moved.</p></div>

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Q: How much do replacement Christmas blinker lights cost?

• <div><p>Blinker lights come with a standard box of Christmas lights, so you don&rsquo;t need to pay extra for them unless you&rsquo;ve misplaced the ones from the original box. You can buy replacement Christmas blinker lights for about $8 per box. If you want to plan for future holidays, you can buy a value box of 24 replacement blinker bulbs for about $12. Also called flasher lights, the replacement bulbs often come in packages of six bulbs.</p></div>

Q: How is holiday lighting added or removed safely?

• <div><p>Safe installation involves using appropriate anchors for weight and weather-resistant fixtures, ensuring all connections are secure and safe from water exposure. Removal should be performed carefully, avoiding pulling or yanking on cables to prevent damage to lighting and home exteriors.</p></div>

Q: Is it safe to staple Christmas lights to a roof or shingles?

• <div><p>Using a staple gun to hang Christmas lights on your roof or shingles is not recommended. Puncturing your roof with staples can cause damage, leading to cracks, leaks, and exposure to the elements. Staples are also less reliable than other methods like roof clips. For a safer alternative that won't damage your roof, use shingle tabs.</p></div>

Q: Is it worth hiring a professional Christmas decorating service?

• <div><p>If you are hosting a large party this year or have staged your home for potential buyers, having a professionally-decorated tree can make a big impact. Christmas tree decorating services can also be more than worth it if you're unable to reach the top of your tree and need assistance with precarious ladder work.</p></div>

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Holiday Decorating questions, answered by experts

Blinker lights come with a standard box of Christmas lights, so you don’t need to pay extra for them unless you’ve misplaced the ones from the original box. You can buy replacement Christmas blinker lights for about $8 per box. If you want to plan for future holidays, you can buy a value box of 24 replacement blinker bulbs for about $12. Also called flasher lights, the replacement bulbs often come in packages of six bulbs.

The most likely cause of accidentally flashing lights is that a regular bulb has been replaced with a flash bulb by accident. If that’s not the case, you should look for a bulb on the strand that is not quite seated properly and will lose its connection when it’s touched or moved.

Safe installation involves using appropriate anchors for weight and weather-resistant fixtures, ensuring all connections are secure and safe from water exposure. Removal should be performed carefully, avoiding pulling or yanking on cables to prevent damage to lighting and home exteriors.

Using a staple gun to hang Christmas lights on your roof or shingles is not recommended. Puncturing your roof with staples can cause damage, leading to cracks, leaks, and exposure to the elements. Staples are also less reliable than other methods like roof clips. For a safer alternative that won't damage your roof, use shingle tabs.

If you are hosting a large party this year or have staged your home for potential buyers, having a professionally-decorated tree can make a big impact. Christmas tree decorating services can also be more than worth it if you're unable to reach the top of your tree and need assistance with precarious ladder work.

The Howes, SD homeowners’ guide to holiday decorating services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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