Vancouver, Washington, really shines during the holidays! The magic of the holidays comes to life with beautifully lit homes, businesses, and public spaces, thanks to the expertise of professional decorators. While anyone can string up a few lights, he pros use top-notch products and special techniques to create something truly magical. In this article, we’ll explore the types of Christmas lights professionals use in Vancouver, Washington, and why they stand out.
1. LED Lights: The Gold Standard for Professionals
Professionals in Vancouver almost exclusively use LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights for their holiday displays.
Here’s why:
- Energy Efficiency: LED lights use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice. For large-scale displays that run for hours nightly, this efficiency is a game-changer.
- Durability and Longevity: LEDs last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Professional decorators value durability because it ensures clients can enjoy their displays without constant replacements or maintenance.
- Brightness and Color Options: LEDs come in a wide range of colors and offer superior brightness, allowing professionals to create eye-catching displays. Many LED lights also offer dimming and color-changing features for added versatility.
- Weather Resistance: Vancouver is known for its damp, rainy winters, and LED lights are better suited to withstand wet conditions. They produce less heat and are less prone to burning out due to moisture.
2. Commercial-Grade Lights
Professionals rarely use lights bought from big-box stores. Instead, they rely on commercial-grade lighting, designed specifically for outdoor use and long-term reliability. These lights are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide consistent performance throughout the holiday season.
Key features of commercial-grade lights include:
- Thicker Wiring: Heavy-duty wiring minimizes the risk of fraying or damage from weather or installation stress.
- Sealed Bulbs: The bulbs are sealed to prevent moisture intrusion, ensuring the lights continue to work even in Vancouver’s rainy climate.
- Customizable Lengths: Professionals often use bulk spools of commercial-grade light strings, allowing them to cut and customize lengths for a perfect fit without leaving excess wire.
3. C7 and C9 Bulbs for Rooflines
For outlining rooflines and creating bold, classic holiday displays, professionals in Vancouver prefer C7 and C9 bulbs. These larger, screw-in bulbs provide a traditional look while offering modern LED efficiency.
C7 Bulbs: Slightly smaller than C9s, C7 bulbs are ideal for outlining windows, doors, and smaller rooflines.
C9 Bulbs: These are larger and brighter, making them perfect for high rooflines and large-scale displays visible from a distance.
Both types are available in various colors and finishes, including opaque, transparent, and twinkling effects. Professionals often use them in custom strands to achieve a tailored look.
4. Mini String Lights for Versatility
Mini string lights are a staple for professional decorators due to their versatility. These lights are ideal for wrapping trees, shrubs, columns, and railings. The most common types include:
- Warm White LEDs: These mimic the cozy glow of incandescent lights while providing the benefits of LEDs.
- Cool White LEDs: Popular for modern or icy-themed displays.
- Color-Changing Mini Lights: With remote or app-controlled options, these lights allow professionals to create dynamic, multicolor displays.
Christmas lights pros often use lights with tightly spaced bulbs (e.g., 2–4 inches apart) for a fuller, more vibrant appearance.
5. Icicle Lights
Icicle lights are another favorite for Vancouver professionals, used to create a winter wonderland effect. These lights are typically hung along rooflines or eaves, mimicking the appearance of dripping icicles. LED icicle lights are the preferred choice for their durability and energy efficiency. Some even feature motion effects, making it look like the icicles are “melting” or shimmering.
6. Net Lights for Shrubs and Bushes
Decorating bushes and shrubs can be time-consuming, but net lights simplify the process. These pre-arranged grids of lights are easy to drape over greenery, creating a uniform, professional look. Net lights are especially popular in Vancouver’s residential neighborhoods, where many homes feature manicured gardens.
7. Tree Wrap Lights
Large trees are a central feature of many outdoor displays, and wrapping tree trunks and branches with lights creates a stunning effect. Professionals use tree wrap lights, which are designed specifically for this purpose. These lights feature flexible wiring that makes it easier to wrap tightly around irregular surfaces.
8. Specialty Lights and Features
In addition to the staples above, professionals in Vancouver incorporate specialty lights to add unique touches to their displays. Examples include:
Meteor Shower Lights: These tube-like lights create the illusion of falling snow or shooting stars, adding dynamic movement to the display.
RGB Lights: These color-changing lights can be programmed to create custom animations and patterns, offering a cutting-edge look for modern displays.
Fairy Lights: These tiny, delicate lights are used for intricate detailing on wreaths, garlands, and centerpieces.
Light Projectors: Instead of stringing lights, some professionals use projectors to cast patterns, such as snowflakes or swirling colors, onto walls or large surfaces.
9. Clips and Mounting Systems
The best lights are only as good as the installation. Professionals in Vancouver use specialized clips and mounting systems to ensure lights are securely fastened without damaging the home or landscape. Popular options include:
Gutter and Shingle Clips: These are used for roofline installations, ensuring the lights are evenly spaced and secure.
Ground Stakes: Perfect for lining walkways or driveways with lights.
Zip Ties and Light Wraps: For tree and column wraps, zip ties keep lights in place without slipping.
10. Customization and Technology
Modern Christmas lighting often incorporates technology to enhance displays. Many professionals use smart lighting systems that allow clients to control their lights via smartphone apps or voice commands. Features like timers, dimmers, and pre-programmed light shows are becoming increasingly popular.
Why Choose Professional Lighting in Vancouver?
Vancouver’s unique climate and the desire for standout holiday displays make professional lighting services a popular choice. Here’s why hiring professionals is worth considering:
- Expert Installation: Professionals know how to install lights safely and efficiently, ensuring they stay up all season long.
- Custom Designs: Professional decorators create personalized displays that suit the architecture and landscape of your property.
- High-Quality Products: The use of commercial-grade, weather-resistant lights ensures longevity and reliability.
- Hassle-Free Experience: Professionals handle everything from design to installation and takedown, leaving homeowners free to enjoy the season.
Final Thoughts
In Vancouver, Washington, professional Christmas decorators rely on high-quality, energy-efficient LED lights, commercial-grade products, and innovative techniques to create stunning holiday displays. Whether it’s the classic glow of C9 bulbs or the versatility of mini string lights, these experts bring the magic of the season to life. By investing in professional lighting, homeowners and businesses can enjoy a hassle-free, breathtaking holiday display that spreads cheer throughout the community.