A little preparation before installation day helps the crew move faster and reduces the chance of surprises during the design consultation. None of it requires special tools or expertise.
Most of it comes down to access, decisions, and a few pieces of information about the property.
Before the design consultation
Having a few decisions ready in advance makes the consultation itself more productive.
- Decide on a general style: classic, colorful, elegant, or high-impact
- Identify your main viewing angle (street, driveway, porch)
- Note any areas you specifically don't want decorated
- Think about a rough budget or phase-one scope
Before installation day
A few property-level tasks make the actual installation smoother.
- Clear ladder access along the roofline and entry
- Note existing outdoor outlet locations
- Trim back branches or shrubs blocking planned display zones
- Move vehicles or obstacles away from the work area
- Secure pets away from ladders and open gates during the visit
What to have ready for a smoother quote
Sharing property type, approximate roofline size, and preferred style up front helps route your request faster — see the guide on requesting a quote for the full list.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be home during installation?
That depends on the installer's process — confirm whether access requires you to be present or if exterior-only work can proceed without you there.
What if I'm not sure about the design yet?
That's normal — the design consultation exists to help narrow down style, focal points, and scope before anything is measured or ordered.