Types of Lights Today’s homeowners can choose from a wide array of lights, including Multi-color lights like those designed back in 1882. Those who really want to make an impression on their neighbors tend to lean on the more extravagant side, though. Many choose to incorporate both festive lights and impressive outdoor holiday decorations to show that they are ringing in the season with good cheer. Here are a few of the most popular options:
Incandescent Lights There are several varieties of incandescent lights on the market. They include tube and cone lights, globe lights, icicle lights, mini-lights, and “retro” C-style bulbs. Incandescent lights also come in many different colors, including traditional red and white lights and Multi-color alternatives. No matter what color and style homeowners choose, these lights are affordable and easy to install, and they generate enough heat to melt away snow and ice so they’re good for outdoor displays.
LED Lights LED lights use newer technology that lends a more crystalline appearance to the lights. They come with standard or wide-angle bulbs and are made out of molded plastic, not glass. LED lights use less power, last for longer, and are brighter than incandescent lights. Unfortunately, they’re not as cheap as incandescent lights.
Icicle Lights Icicle lights are made up of strings of lights connected to a center cord, allowing the strings to hang down 5 to 30 inches. Every string is a different length, so when these lights are draped down over the edge of a roof, each of them looks like a bright, beautiful Icicle.
Rope Lighting Rope lighting is used to make shaped decorations. Unlike Holiday lighting strings, these specialized lights are wrapped in a flexible plastic sheath to give them a more rigid shape. Homeowners can use them to outline objects or even create letters or words.
Mesh Lights Mesh lights, also known as net lights, are perfect for illuminating outdoor bushes and shrubs, but they can be draped over or wrapped around just about any object. The lights are arranged in a grid pattern by wires that extend vertically and horizontally for maximum uniformity. Most feature mini bulbs rather than regular-sized ones.
Retro Lights Retro lights are designed to mimic those in use in the mid-20th century. The most popular type of retro bulbs are c9 Christmas lights, but bubble lights are also available. These twinkling lights will add a vintage appeal to any home.
Battery Operated Lights Worried about running extension cords all over the house? With battery powered lights, there’s no need to create tripping hazards to get the perfect light display for that holiday party. Battery operated lights are composed of strings that contain between 10 and 20 bulbs and battery packs to power them. They can stay illuminated for 72 hours or more before the batteries must be changed. They can also be set on a timer to prolong the batteries’ usable lifespans.
