Permanent Track Lighting or Seasonal Holiday Lights – How to Choose the Right One

Written By Alex Perry

When it comes to outdoor lighting, homeowners often face a big decision: stick with seasonal holiday lights you put up and take down every year, or invest in permanent track lighting that stays up year-round. Both have their perks, but the right choice depends on your style, budget, and how you want to use your lights.

In this post, we’ll compare the benefits of each option so you can decide which is best for your home.

 
 
 

What is Permanent Track Lighting?

Permanent track lighting is a low-profile, weatherproof lighting system installed along your home’s roofline. With brands like Gemstone Lights, you can choose from millions of colors, patterns, and animations — all controlled from your phone.

 

Benefits of Permanent Track Lighting

 

Year-Round Curb Appeal

  • Highlight your home’s architecture in every season.

  • Use for holidays, events, game days, or just everyday ambiance.

Low Maintenance & Long Lifespan

  • Built to last 20+ years with LED technology.

  • Weatherproof and durable in all climates.

Energy Efficiency

  • LED systems reduce electricity usage compared to traditional bulbs.

App-Controlled Customization

  • Change colors, patterns, and brightness from your phone.

 

What is Holiday Lighting?

Holiday lighting refers to seasonal lights—often installed in November or December—that are taken down after the season ends. These lights are perfect for short-term, festive displays.

 

Benefits of Seasonal Holiday Lights

 

Lower Initial Cost

  • Less expensive upfront compared to permanent systems.

Flexibility in Design

  • Change your look every year with new colors and arrangements.

Tradition & Fun

  • Many people enjoy the annual tradition of putting up and taking down lights.

 
 

Cost Comparison: Holiday Lighting vs. Permanent Track Lighting

 

Feature

Initial Cost

Annual Cost

Customization

Longevity

Weather Resistance

Holiday Lighting

Lower

High (install & removal)

Limited

1 season

Moderate

Permanent Track Lighting

Higher

None after installation

Unlimited via app

20+ years (50,000 hours)

High

 

Which Should You Choose?

 

If you love changing your display style every year and want a lower upfront cost, seasonal holiday lighting might be right for you.

 

But if you’re tired of paying for yearly installations, climbing ladders in freezing weather, and want year-round curb appeal, permanent track lighting is the smarter investment.

 

With QC Lights, your permanent lighting system will be:

  • Professionally installed

  • Seamlessly integrated into your roofline

  • Controlled from anywhere using your smartphone

  • Built to last through Iowa and Illinois weather

 

Final Thoughts

 

Whether you choose holiday lighting or permanent track lighting, your decision should match your lifestyle and long-term vision for your home. Many of our customers who switched to permanent lighting say it’s the best home improvement decision they’ve made—saving time, money, and frustration while keeping their home beautifully lit all year long.

 

Ready to Light Up Your Home Year-Round?

Contact QC Lights today for a free quote on Gemstone Lights permanent track lighting installation in Bettendorf, Coralville, Blue Grass, Iowa City, Marion, and surrounding areas.

Alex Perry