Permanent Outdoor Lighting FAQs
Have questions? We’ve got answers!
General Information
What services does your company offer?
Innovative Lights Iowa offers a permanent LED outdoor lighting system with color-changing lights designed for homes and businesses. This versatile system provides everything from subtle accent lighting that resembles recessed can or pot lights to vibrant, customizable colors and patterns for every night of the holiday season. It’s perfect for celebrating all occasions, including Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, patriotic holidays, Halloween, birthday parties, and more!
What types of lighting do you install?
We specialize in installing custom, high-quality exterior lighting systems. Our offerings typically include:
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- Permanent Outdoor Lighting
– Energy-efficient LED systems designed for year-round use, perfect for accentuating home or building exteriors.
– These systems are commonly programmable to create custom lighting effects for holidays, events, or everyday use. - Permanent Holiday Lighting
– Festive lighting solutions for Christmas, Halloween, and every holiday in between, installed with a clean, professional look. - Landscape Lighting
– Pathway lights, uplighting, and spotlights to enhance outdoor spaces, increase curb appeal, and improve nighttime safety. - Smart Lighting Systems
– Lights controlled via smartphone apps, allowing users to customize colors, brightness, and schedules remotely. - Architectural Accent Lighting
– Lighting designed to highlight unique architectural features like rooflines, columns, or windows.
- Permanent Outdoor Lighting
We focus on combining aesthetics, functionality, and technology to deliver long-lasting, elegant lighting solutions.
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Do you provide both residential and commercial installations?
Yes, we provide both residential and commercial outdoor lighting installations. Our offerings include permanent holiday lighting, landscape lighting, architectural accent lighting, soffit lighting, and more. We cater to a variety of needs, from enhancing homes to illuminating businesses for aesthetic or functional purposes. Our installations are customizable and controlled via a proprietary smartphone app for convenience.
Are consultations free, and how can I schedule one?
All consultations and quotes are provided free of charge so you can make an informed decision. To schedule an appointment, simply fill out our online Request a Free Quote form or give us a call at (515) 219-7494.
Do you offer a referral program?
Please contact our office at (515) 219-7494 for more details.
What do customers think about Innovative Lights Iowa?
Our customers consistently rate us highly! We have an consistently high customer ratings across Google and Facebook — check our reviews to see what Iowa homeowners are saying, reflecting our commitment to quality and service. We’ve also completed a wide variety of projects, from residential to commercial lighting—check out our social media to see photos, videos, and real-world examples of our work.
What’s the difference between your services and big box stores?
Everything! From top-quality exterior landscape fixtures and transformers to our expert designs and professional installation standards, we offer unmatched value and performance.
Why should I buy from Innovative Lights Iowa?
We install only top-of-the-line products at competitive prices. Locally owned and operated, and we proudly serve the Des Moines and Ames communities.
How Installation Works
What is the typical process for a lighting installation?
Our process starts with a free on-site consultation where we assess your home’s architecture and map out a custom lighting plan. Once you approve the design and estimate, our team schedules your install, typically completing it in a single day. We handle all wiring, mounting, and programming so you don’t have to lift a finger.
How long does a typical installation take?
Most residential installs are completed in one day. Larger homes or more complex rooflines may take two days. We’ll give you a clear timeline during your consultation so there are no surprises.
Do I need to be home during the installation?
We ask that someone be available at the start of the install to confirm the lighting plan and walk the perimeter with our team. After that, we’re happy to work while you go about your day. We’ll check back in when everything is complete.
Will the lights damage my roof, fascia, or soffit?
Not at all. Our Gemstone Lights system is designed to mount cleanly to the outer edge of your soffit or behind the fascia without penetrating roofing materials. The lights sit nearly flush and are virtually invisible during the day.
How are the permanent lights powered?
The system connects to a low-voltage power supply that plugs into a standard outdoor outlet. Our team handles all wiring during installation and ensures everything is safely secured and weatherproofed before we leave.
Can permanent lights be installed on any type of home?
Gemstone Lights can be installed on the vast majority of home styles, including single-story, two-story, brick, vinyl, and wood exteriors. During your free consultation, our team will assess your roofline and confirm the best mounting approach for your specific home.
Cost and Payment
How much does a lighting installation typically cost?
The cost for Permanent Holiday Lighting for an average-sized home typically runs in the range of $2,500 to $4,500. You can find more information on the quoting process and the cost of permanent holiday lighting here.
Due to the custom nature of landscape lighting projects, we would need to come to your home or business to provide a quote.
Do you offer financing options or payment plans?
Yes! You can learn more about our financing options here.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We collect 50% deposit and then order your materials. The balance is due at installation by check, cash, card, or through our 3rd party financing partner. We make it as easy as possible for your budget!
Are there additional fees I should know about?
No hidden fees! Once your system is installed and your final payment is made, there are no ongoing payments to Innovative Lights Iowa.
Do you offer free quotes?
Yes, we do! Innovative Lights Iowa offers free on-site quotes to ensure accuracy and tailored recommendations. Our quotes are always clear, transparent, and easy to read, so you know exactly what to expect—no hidden fees or surprises.
Will adding Permanent lights significantly increase my electric bill?
No! Our systems are low-voltage and use the latest LED technology, consuming up to 90% less electricity than older systems.
Gemstone Lights FAQs
What are Gemstone Lights?
Gemstone Lights are a premium permanent LED lighting system installed directly into your roofline. Unlike traditional holiday lights, they stay up year-round and can be programmed to display millions of color combinations, patterns, and schedules, all from a smartphone app. Innovative Lights Iowa is a certified Gemstone Lights dealer and installer.
How are Gemstone Lights different from other permanent lighting systems?
Gemstone Lights use individual pixel-controlled LEDs, meaning each bulb can display a different color simultaneously. This sets them apart from basic permanent lighting systems that can only show one color at a time. The result is stunning, customizable displays that work for holidays, seasons, sports teams, and everyday use.
Are Gemstone Lights weatherproof?
Yes. Gemstone Lights are built for year-round outdoor use and are rated to withstand Iowa’s full range of weather, including snow, ice, rain, and summer heat. All fixtures, wiring, and connections are fully weatherproofed during installation.
Do Gemstone Lights come with a warranty?
Yes. Gemstone Lights come with a Limited Lifetime warranty on the LED strips and comprehensive coverage on all hardware and controllers. As a certified installer, Innovative Lights Iowa also backs every installation with our own workmanship guarantee.
Can I control Gemstone Lights from my phone?
Absolutely. Gemstone Lights are controlled through an easy-to-use smartphone app that lets you choose colors, set schedules, sync to music, and switch between preset holiday themes, all from the palm of your hand. No ladder required.
Is Innovative Lights Iowa an authorized Gemstone Lights dealer?
Yes. We are a certified Gemstone Lights dealer and installer. Our team is trained to Gemstone specifications for mounting, wiring, and weatherproofing, so you get the full manufacturer warranty plus our own installation guarantee.
Permanent Lighting Questions Answered
What is the typical process for a lighting installation?
Our lighting design process is simple.
- Initial consultation: Our team will come to your home or business to understand your goals and make professional recommendations based on your unique setup and needs.
- Custom design plan: Our lighting specialists will measure your home or determine the number of light fixtures you need and provide you with a custom quote.
- Installation: Our installation team will complete the job exactly as described and agreed on, leaving you completed satisfied!
How long does an installation take?
Average-sized installations are done in one day.
Will there be disruptions during the installation?
No, there will be no disruptions to your power during the installation process.
Do I need to be home for the installation?
You only need to be there for the beginning and the end of the installation. We will coordinate with you when we schedule your installation.
Why should I choose Innovative Lights Iowa for my Permanent lighting project?
Innovative Lights Iowa brings unmatched expertise and flexibility to every landscape lighting project. Here’s what makes us the right choice:
- Wide Range of Fixtures: We offer many different low-voltage landscape lighting solutions to suit every style, space, and budget.
- Access to High Quality Kichler Products: Our partnerships with ProSource give you access to a broad selection of high-quality fixtures and components.
From subtle pathway lights to dramatic uplighting, Innovative Lights Iowa delivers landscape lighting that enhances your property and stands the test of time.
Will adding Permanent lights significantly increase my electric bill?
No! Our systems are low-voltage and use the latest LED technology, consuming up to 90% less electricity than older systems.
What types of fixtures do you use?
We use high-quality brass, copper, aluminum, and stainless-steel fixtures, carefully matched to the application to ensure durability and performance.
How are lighting systems controlled?
You have several control options:
- Photocell timers (on at dusk, off at preset time)
- Digital timers
- Smartphone apps
- Integration with home automation systems
Will the installation damage my landscaping?
No. Since our permanent lights are installed directly on your home, there’s no trenching through your lawn or landscaping. Our installers carefully route and secure the wiring to keep your property looking clean and undisturbed.
How long does installation take?
It depends on project size and complexity:
- Most residential installs: 1–2 days
- Large commercial installs: 1 day to several weeks
When can you start?
Typically, installations start within 2–2.5 weeks after design approval.
Timeline & Scheduling
How far in advance should I schedule my installation?
We recommend booking two to four weeks ahead, especially in late summer and fall when demand for permanent holiday lighting peaks. Reach out early and we will lock in a date that works for you.
What is the best time of year to install permanent lighting?
Any season works. Many homeowners install in spring or summer so their system is ready long before the holidays, but we install year-round whenever weather allows.
How soon after my consultation can installation happen?
In most cases we can schedule your install within one to two weeks of an approved estimate. During peak season lead times can be a little longer, and we will always give you a clear date up front.
What happens if there is bad weather on my installation day?
Safety comes first. If severe weather rolls in, we will contact you right away to reschedule for the next available day. You will never be left guessing.
Can you have my lights ready for a specific holiday or event?
Yes. Tell us the date you are working toward, whether it is Christmas, a graduation party, or a game day, and we will build the schedule around it. Booking early gives us the most flexibility.
Will you confirm my appointment before arriving?
Yes. We confirm your installation date when it is booked and follow up before our team arrives, so you always know exactly when to expect us.
Maintenance, Warranties & Safety
Do you offer maintenance services after installation?
Yes! Innovative Lights Iowa offers a manufacturer warranty and a 3-year bumper-to-bumper installation warranty. Additionally, we offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty on each individual bulb.
What should I do if a light stops working?
We’re here to help! If you need any assistance with your system once it’s installed you can reach out to our friendly support team by calling (515) 219-7494 or by contacting us here.
Our service team will diagnose and repair the problem.
- Burned-out bulbs: replaced free during the 3 year installation warranty period
- System failures: often simple fixes like resetting GFCI outlets or breakers.
How often should my lighting system be serviced?
LED Lighting systems are expected to last 10-20 years and do not need regular maintenance. If for some reason something stops working, please give us a call so we can help you get your system back online.
Can you repair existing lighting installations?
Innovative Lights Iowa will service the systems we install ourselves or we can provide you a quote to replace your outdated lighting system.
We charge $65/hr with a 2 hour min and we will only warranty the work we complete on other lighting systems
Do you offer any warranties on your installations and lights?
Innovative Lights Iowa provides a Limited Lifetime Warranty on the bulbs included in your manufacture’s warranty plus a 3 year bumper to bumper installation warranty.
Are your installations compliant with local codes and regulations?
Yes! We make every effort to comply with local laws and regulations to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience in using your lights.
Do you carry liability insurance?
Yes! If you need to see proof of insurance, our Lighting Specialists will be more than happy to provide you with the information you need.
What safety measures do you take during installation?
Safety is of the highest importance whenever we install our systems. You can rest assured that our team is well trained and follows safety protocols for the protection of you, your home and each one of our employees.