Holiday Light Installation Cost and Timing in Martinez & Contra Costa County
What it costs to have Christmas and holiday lights hung in Martinez and the East Bay, when to book, and what to expect for takedown.
Hanging holiday lights is a ladder-and-patience job, and the people who do it for a living book up fast. If you want lights up by Thanksgiving weekend, the time to arrange it is now.
These are general ranges for installation labor, not a quote. Lights are extra unless I’m buying them for you.
Typical Prices
- Single-story roofline and front eaves: about $250–$500 to install
- Two-story or larger roofline (where reachable by ladder): about $400–$800
- Trees, shrubs, porch railings and pathways: quoted by the amount of wrapping
- Takedown and storage after the season: often $100–$250, usually less than the install
I also buy lights for you if you’d rather not. Quality LED strands with a clip system last more seasons than cheap strings.
What Changes the Price
Roofline length. Measure before you buy, or let me measure. The wrong length is the most common mistake.
Stories and access. Single-story rooflines are quick. Two stories mean taller ladders and more time.
Roof type. Steep, slick or tile roofs can’t be done from a ladder safely, and I’ll tell you if yours is one.
Complexity. Trees, wrapped columns and detailed layouts take longer than straight rooflines.
Outlets and timers. Setting up a timer and spreading the load so a breaker doesn’t trip adds a little time but saves you a cold-night headache.
When to Book
- Install: book by early November for lights up before Thanksgiving weekend.
- Takedown: book in early January. It’s easier to schedule than installation.
Safety Notes
I use clips made for gutters and shingles rather than staples or nails, which damage trim and roofing. If you need a new outdoor outlet, that’s a licensed electrician’s job. I don’t walk steep or high roofs.
Other Fall Outdoor Jobs
If you’re getting lights up, consider scheduling gutter cleaning at the same visit. The ladder is already out and the roofline is already clear.
Get a Quote
I’m a one-person, insured handyman based in Martinez, serving about 35 miles around. See the holiday light installation page for what’s included, then send me photos and I’ll quote before I start, or call 925-257-2685.
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