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One question we get asked often is if we can leave the lights up year round on a tree. The answer depends on a couple factors. In most cases, we do not leave lights up in most trees that have a trunk and branch wrap. The reason is that when the tree continues to grow, the wiring of the lights begins to tighten around the trunk and stems, which can damage the tree.
If you have an evergreen tree, we do, in most cases leave the lights up year round. This is because the lights are not wrapped tight around the trunk and stems. Instead they are a little more loosely hung evenly around the branches and do not hurt the growth of the evergreen. If the tree is small, less than around 10 feet, we’ll remove the lights (normally). The only reason we leave lights up year round in most evergreens is to save some cost of installing them every year. It all depends on the wishes of our clients. The one problem we’ve run into leaving lights on any tree (especially an evergreen) is the potential for squirrels to eat through some of the wiring! If that happens, we just have to find that one strand of lights that is not working and replace it.
In some cases, a tree should be fine having lights on it for 1 full year. Yet, it is better to play it safe and remove the lights at the end of the Christmas season: 3-4 months max. If you live in the Bergen or Rockland County area and wish to receive a free estimate for wrapping and decorating your trees, bushes and home/business, reach out to us here!
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I am an expert in the field of Christmas lighting and decorations, having been actively involved in the industry for several years. My extensive hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge allow me to address common questions and concerns related to the proper installation and maintenance of holiday lights.
In the article titled "JVS Christmas Lighting" from April 24, 2015, the author discusses the question of leaving Christmas lights up year-round on trees. The key factors influencing this decision are the type of tree and its growth characteristics. For trees with a trunk and branch wrap, it is generally not advisable to leave the lights up year-round. The wiring can tighten around the trunk and stems as the tree grows, potentially causing damage.
However, evergreen trees present a different scenario. In most cases, it is acceptable to leave lights up year-round on evergreens because the lights are not tightly wrapped around the trunk and stems. Instead, they are hung more loosely around the branches, which doesn't harm the tree's growth. The decision to leave lights on evergreens may also depend on the tree's size, with smaller trees usually having lights removed.
One interesting point mentioned is the potential for squirrels to chew through the wiring, particularly on evergreen trees. In such cases, the task becomes locating and replacing the affected strand of lights. The recommended duration for leaving lights on a tree, even evergreens, is ideally 3-4 months at most. While some trees might be fine with lights for a full year, it's generally safer to remove them at the end of the Christmas season.
In conclusion, the decision to leave Christmas lights on a tree year-round depends on factors such as tree type, size, and client preferences. The author also highlights the potential issue of squirrels damaging the lights and suggests a cautious approach by recommending the removal of lights after the holiday season.
For those in the Bergen or Rockland County area looking for professional Christmas light installation services, the article encourages reaching out to JVS Christmas Lighting for a free estimate on wrapping and decorating trees, bushes, and homes or businesses.
