TwinkleIQ

TwinkleIQ™ – Holiday Lighting FAQ & Help Hub

TwinkleIQ™ is your central help hub for holiday lighting with TwinkleTask. It brings together the questions Houston-area families ask most often about packages, pricing, policies, safety, timing, and support—so you can book with confidence and know exactly what to expect.

Browse by topic below. If you still have questions after reading, our team is always a text, call, or TwinkleChat™ message away.

Getting Started

What’s included with a TwinkleTask Lighting Package?

In short: structure-only architectural outlining in commercial-grade C9 LEDs, plus pro installation, automation, takedown, and in-season support.

Every Lighting Package is structure-only, using commercial-grade C9 LEDs to outline the front architecture of your home. Depending on the package, this includes your roofline, peaks, windows, and garage, all measured and planned with TwinkleTech™. Each package includes installation by TwinkleTask SecureInstall™ crews, a SmartSync™ Controller for dusk-to-dawn automation, professional seasonal takedown, and coverage under the TwinkleTask Promise™ for 24-hour repair scheduling during your active display season.

How do I choose between Sparkle, Twinkle, Glisten, and Gleam?

Think in levels: Sparkle is your first roofline outline, Twinkle completes the silhouette, Glisten frames the architecture, and Gleam is the full showcase.

Sparkle covers your front roofline only (up to ~100 ft) and is ideal for first-time professional lighting customers. Twinkle adds peaks and, when footage allows, either windows or garage outlining for a “complete from the street” look. Glisten extends to roofline, peaks, windows, and garage for a refined, designer-level frame on most homes. Gleam is the full-structure tier for taller or wider elevations that should feel like the centerpiece of the street. If you’re unsure, we can pull up your home with TwinkleTech™ and recommend the best fit in just a few minutes.

Do you offer free quotes?

Yes. We can quote from satellite and property data without an in-person visit.

Most families either request a quote through TwinkleConnect™ or go straight to choosing a Lighting Package and Enhancements online. TwinkleTech™ uses aerial imagery and appraisal data to approximate your footage and package fit, so we can give you a clear, upfront quote without you needing to schedule an initial walk-through.

How does TwinkleTech™ verify my home’s measurements?

We blend aerial imagery, appraisal data, and Verified by Satellite™ checks so your quote is based on measured architecture—not guesswork.

TwinkleTech™ traces your roofline and peaks from above, cross-checks dimensions with appraisal district records, and applies Verified by Satellite™ checks to confirm footage and proportions. This gives us a strong picture of your roofline, windows, and garage layout before we ever arrive. On installation day, crews confirm details and fine-tune for symmetry, but the pricing foundation is already in place.

How do Enhancements work with my Lighting Package?

Your package frames the home; Enhancements bring the trees, beds, paths, and entry to life.

Lighting Packages outline the architecture. Enhancements expand the look with ground-level C9s (Lighting Boosts), Mini-Lights for shrubs and columns, Tree Wraps, Wreaths, Garland, Color Glow Upgrade™, Priority scheduling options, and SafeKeep™ Seasonal Storage. Each Enhancement is optional and priced per footage or item. TwinkleTech™ helps us recommend the right lengths and sizes so you get balanced coverage without overbuying.

Are the lights mine to keep?

Yes. The décor installed for your home belongs to you; we retain only clips and specialized hardware.

Your lights, wreaths, and garland are your décor. TwinkleTask retains ownership of professional clips, certain cabling, and other specialized hardware required for installation. If you choose SafeKeep™, we store your décor in an insured, climate-appropriate facility and reinstall it the following season with priority scheduling.

Pricing, Accuracy & Measurement

Will my price change after you arrive?

Our goal is that the price you book is the price you pay—and TwinkleTech™ is designed to make that true.

Because we pre-measure your home using aerial imagery and property data, surprises are rare. If TwinkleTech™ shows your elevation is significantly outside the typical range for your chosen package, we’ll talk through options before installation—not after crews are on your roof. The guiding principle is simple: no “bait-and-switch” pricing.

What happens if my home has more footage than expected?

We’ll either adapt the layout within your package or, at your choice, discuss an upgrade—never quietly change the price.

If TwinkleTech™ reveals that your roofline exceeds what is normally covered by your selected package, we have options. Often we can focus coverage on the most visible sections and stay within your tier. If you prefer full coverage beyond that range, we’ll explain the differences to you and let you decide whether to adjust the package or move up—before work begins.

How do you measure rooflines, peaks, windows, and garages?

We don’t eyeball it—we trace it.

TwinkleTech™ uses satellite and aerial views to trace your roof edges and peaks, then cross-references those lines with appraisal district data. Windows and garages are mapped as rectangles within that outline. This gives us an approximate linear footage for each element, which we match to standard coverage patterns for each package. On site, crews check for real-world nuances and adjust spacing or transitions for a symmetrical final look.

How do I know how many feet of tree wrap I need?

We recommend footage based on tree size and your desired “glow level,” then confirm with TwinkleTech™.

As a flexible guide: around 50 ft for smaller ornamentals, 100–150 ft for medium trees, and 250–500+ ft for large or multi-trunk feature trees. TwinkleTech™ reviews your trees from above to estimate trunk height and canopy spread. Then, during planning, we’ll ask if you want a subtle accent or a full showpiece and suggest the closest matching footage option.

How much Mini-Light footage should I choose for shrubs and beds?

Think in zones: a few shrubs, a full hedge, or an entire front landscape.

In general, 50 ft works for a few small shrubs or a compact bed; 100 ft can cover multiple shrubs or a medium hedge; and 250–500 ft is best for larger yards, long hedge runs, or layered landscaping. TwinkleTech™ helps us estimate coverage, but our team also listens to how you want the yard to feel—light shimmer in a few places or a full, ground-level glow—and recommends accordingly.

How do I choose the right wreath size?

Match the wreath to the wall: smaller for intimate spaces, larger for tall peaks and wide façades.

As a guideline, 24" wreaths fit gates, fences, and smaller spaces; 36" works for most single-story peaks and garage accents; 48" suits larger façades or higher architectural features; and 60" creates a statement focal point on tall peaks or estate-style homes. TwinkleTech™ helps ensure the wreath size you select looks proportional and intentional on your elevation.

How do I choose the right garland length?

Measure the span in your mind: one doorframe, a pair of posts, or a full porch run.

Roughly speaking, 18 ft is enough for a standard doorframe or a single column; 36 ft works for double doors, paired posts, or smaller arches; 54 ft suits wide garages or larger entry groupings; and 72 ft frames expansive porches or multi-column layouts. With TwinkleTech™, we can look at your door, porch, or garage and recommend a length that feels “finished” instead of too short or excessive.

Booking, Deposits & Policies

Why is a 50% deposit required?

Your deposit reserves a limited seasonal slot and activates planning for your home.

Holiday lighting runs on a short, high-demand schedule. Your 50% deposit secures your installation window and triggers TwinkleTech™ planning and materials allocation. Because we hold that slot specifically for your family—and cannot easily replace it at the last minute—deposits are non-refundable. In some circumstances, cancellations more than 72 hours in advance may qualify for a one-time courtesy credit toward the next season. Full details live in our Booking & Deposit Policy.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Timing matters—earlier cancellations may receive a credit; last-minute changes usually forfeit the deposit.

All deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel more than 72 hours before your scheduled window, we may extend a one-time courtesy credit toward a future season. Cancellations inside 72 hours typically result in forfeiture of the deposit, and additional charges may apply if we’ve cut materials specifically for your property. During blackout weeks (Thanksgiving week, the first week of December, and the week leading into Christmas), cancellations are not permitted so we can keep every route stable.

What are blackout weeks?

They’re the highest-demand weeks of the season, when schedules must stay fixed.

To keep routes reliable during peak demand, we designate certain weeks as blackout periods. During these weeks—usually Thanksgiving week, the first full week of December, and the week leading into Christmas—we do not allow cancellations or reschedules. Deposits and any Priority upgrade fees are fully non-refundable during blackout weeks.

Can I reschedule my installation?

Yes, within limits—and earlier is always better.

Rescheduling more than 72 hours before your installation window is generally allowed as long as there’s availability. Inside 72 hours, rescheduling may result in deposit forfeiture or a reschedule fee, depending on circumstances. During blackout weeks, rescheduling is not available so that everyone already booked can rely on their scheduled date.

What happens if the crew can’t access my home?

If we can’t safely access key areas, your appointment may be treated as a missed slot.

When crews arrive, they need clear driveways, unlocked gates, safe ladder zones, working outlets, and pets secured away from work areas. If access is blocked or unsafe—for example, due to locked gates, vehicles in ladder paths, aggressive pets, or other contractors occupying the same space—installation may have to be rescheduled. In those cases, deposits may be forfeited and a reschedule fee may apply, because the reserved route time could not be used.

When is the final payment charged?

The remaining 50% is due once your display is installed and verified.

After your lights are up and tested, the remaining balance is due. In many cases, the card on file is charged automatically on installation day. If an invoice is issued, payment is due immediately so we can keep takedown schedules and future bookings on track. Unpaid balances may delay takedown or affect future-season reservations.

Installation Day

What should I expect on installation day?

You’ll receive text updates, a quick on-site review, and a clean, professional installation.

You’ll typically receive a text when your crew is routed and another when they’re on the way. On arrival, the crew lead will introduce themselves, confirm your package and Enhancements, and perform an access and safety check. They’ll then follow TwinkleTask SecureInstall™ standards to install your lights, test the system, and tidy the work areas before leaving. If you’re home, they’ll walk you through your controller and answer any questions.

How long does installation usually take?

Most homes are completed in a few hours; larger packages and multiple Enhancements take longer.

A typical Sparkle or Twinkle installation with a few Enhancements might take a couple of hours with a two- or three-person crew. Glisten, Gleam, and multi-tree or extensive landscape Enhancements can take longer, especially on taller or more complex elevations. We build timing based on TwinkleTech™ planning and do not rush at the expense of safety or quality.

Do I need to be home during installation?

Not necessarily—access and safety matter more than being present.

As long as we have access to necessary areas, working outlets, and clear ladder zones—and pets are secured away from work areas—we can usually complete installation without you being home. Many families choose to be home for their first season, particularly if they have questions about layout or controls. If you’re away, we’ll test the system and can provide photos or notes as requested.

How do I prepare my home for the crew?

A few quick steps: clear vehicles, unlock gates, secure pets, and check an outdoor outlet.

On installation day:

Move vehicles from primary ladder areas.
Unlock gates needed for access.
Secure pets indoors or away from work areas.
Ensure at least one exterior outlet is working and accessible.

If you have fragile décor or fixtures outside, moving them or letting us know in advance helps us work around them safely. Our Home Access & Safety page offers a simple checklist.

What happens if it rains on my installation day?

If conditions are unsafe, we’ll shift your appointment to the next safe, dry window.

Houston weather can change quickly. If rain, wind, lightning, or slick surfaces make ladder or roof work unsafe, we’ll adjust your installation. Sometimes we can complete ground-level work and return for roofline sections when things dry out. Weather delays do not qualify for refunds, but we’ll communicate clearly and move you into the next safe window, with Priority, Rush, and Now customers routed first when applicable.

What if my pets are outside?

For everyone’s safety, pets need to be kept away from work areas.

We love pets, but loose or protective dogs can create distractions and ladder risks. Please secure pets indoors or in a separate fenced area away from ladders and walkpaths during installation and takedown. If pets prevent safe access, we may need to pause or reschedule, and fees may apply due to the lost route time.

Technical, Power & Safety

How many outlets do I need?

Most homes do well with one or two exterior outlets thanks to efficient LEDs.

Commercial-grade LEDs draw significantly less power than traditional strands, so many designs can run from one or two GFCI-protected outlets. We plan layouts to stay within safe electrical limits and avoid overloading individual circuits where possible. If your home has limited exterior outlets, we’ll talk through options and design with safety and practicality in mind.

What if my GFCI outlet trips?

GFCIs are a safety feature; we’ll help you understand whether the issue is moisture, load, or home wiring.

If a GFCI outlet trips, first ensure the outlet and connections are dry and reset it. If it trips repeatedly, contact us. TwinkleTask can often determine whether the likely cause is installation-related or tied to the home’s electrical system. We can adjust light placement or load where possible, but we cannot alter or repair home wiring or GFCI devices themselves.

Will the lights damage my home or gutters?

We use non-penetrating, HOA-friendly hardware and are careful around delicate surfaces.

TwinkleTask uses non-penetrating clips wherever possible and avoids nails, staples, or anything that pierces your roof or fascia. Ladders are placed carefully and never leaned on fragile gutters or trim. On older or delicate surfaces, we may recommend layout modifications to protect your home. At takedown, some clips may remain if removing them would risk damage; this is a standard property-protection practice.

What kind of lights do you use?

We use commercial-grade LED systems designed for outdoor, seasonal use.

Our C9 roofline systems and 5mm Mini-Lights are all professional-grade LEDs. They run cooler, use less power, and are better suited to Houston’s climate than most retail strands. We default to warm white for a classic, HOA-friendly look and offer Color Glow Upgrade™ options for families who prefer curated color palettes.

Can you install on tile, metal, or steep roofs?

Sometimes—only when it can be done safely and without risking damage.

Certain roof types and pitches are more challenging. In some cases we can safely clip to specific areas; in others, we may recommend focusing on lower rooflines or alternate design elements. If TwinkleTech™ and TwinkleTask SecureInstall™ standards indicate that a requested area is unsafe or structurally unsuitable, we’ll propose the closest safe alternative rather than forcing a risky installation.

Are your crews insured and trained?

Yes. Crews follow TwinkleTask SecureInstall™ standards and carry appropriate insurance.

Our teams are trained in ladder safety, roof awareness, basic electrical best practices for holiday lighting, and HOA-friendly installation techniques. They work carefully around landscaping, hardscape, and exterior finishes, and they’re expected to leave your property tidy after installation and takedown.

Enhancements

What’s the difference between C9s, Mini-Lights, and Tree Wraps?

C9s define structure and lines; Mini-Lights add shimmer and texture; Tree Wraps create dramatic vertical glow.

C9s are the iconic, larger bulbs used for rooflines and Lighting Boosts along driveways, sidewalks, and bed edges. Mini-Lights are smaller 5mm bulbs used across shrubs, hedges, beds, columns, and smaller trees to create a soft, sparkling texture. Tree Wraps use Mini-Lights wrapped more intensively around trunks and main branches to turn trees into glowing focal points. Most premium designs combine all three for structure, depth, and height.

Can I add Enhancements after booking?

Often yes, especially for smaller additions—just let us know as early as possible.

If there’s available time in your install window and sufficient materials, we can usually add or adjust Enhancements such as tree wraps, Mini-Lights, or wreaths. Larger changes—like multiple large trees, extensive ground-level Boosts, or long garland runs—may require schedule or pricing adjustments. Early communication gives us the best chance of saying yes without disrupting routes.

Do Enhancements affect my installation time?

Yes—every Enhancement adds some time, and we plan your route accordingly.

Single tree wraps or a few shrubs of Mini-Lights add modest time; multiple trees, long Boost runs, or extensive wreath and garland installations take longer. TwinkleTech™ and our scheduling tools factor this into your appointment so we don’t overschedule crews. For most homes, a package plus a tidy set of Enhancements still fits comfortably within a single visit.

Can I choose warm white or color?

Warm white is standard; tasteful color is available through Color Glow Upgrade™.

Warm white is our classic, most-requested look—simple, elegant, and HOA-friendly. If your family prefers color, Color Glow Upgrade™ offers curated palettes like classic red and green, winter blue, or gold and white. These palettes are chosen to feel balanced and cohesive, not chaotic, and are calibrated using TwinkleTech™ to suit your architecture.

How do Lighting Boosts enhance my display?

Boosts extend the roofline look down to the ground, tying your home to your landscape.

Lighting Boosts use C9s to outline driveways, sidewalks, flower beds, and garden borders. They visually “ground” your roofline lighting, eliminate dark gaps, and help wide or corner lots feel more complete. Many families start with a Lighting Package and then add Boosts once they see how impactful that extra ground-level structure is from the street.

Can I add tree wraps, wreaths, or garland without a Lighting Package?

Our services are built around Lighting Packages, but we may consider Enhancement-only projects case by case.

Our core offering is a Lighting Package plus Enhancements. In some limited situations, we may accept Enhancement-only installations (for example, a large tree wrap or entry garland project), but minimums and calendar availability apply. If you have a specific Enhancement-only idea, contact us early and we’ll let you know what’s possible for the season.

Weather, Delays & Priority Services

What happens during weather delays?

Safety comes first; then we rebuild routes with Priority, Rush, and Now customers at the front of the line.

If weather creates unsafe ladder or roof conditions—such as sustained rain, lightning, high wind, or slick surfaces—we pause or adjust installation plans. Once conditions improve, we move Priority, Rush, and Now customers into the next safe windows first, followed by standard-route customers. Weather delays do not qualify for refunds, but we work to keep communication timely and expectations clear.

How does TwinkleTask Priority™ work?

Priority secures your install inside a preferred window instead of standard routing.

TwinkleTask Priority™ is an Enhancement that gives you more control over when your installation occurs, which is especially helpful if you’re hosting, traveling, or timing your display with neighborhood décor. Priority doesn’t override weather safety rules but does move your installation ahead of standard jobs when routes are rebuilt.

What is TwinkleTask Rush™?

Rush is a 72-hour upgrade for families who need lights up within the next few days.

TwinkleTask Rush™ guarantees installation within 72 hours, weather permitting, and moves your home ahead of standard scheduling. It’s ideal for events coming up soon, imminent travel, or simply wanting your home glowing this week instead of “sometime later.”

What is TwinkleTask Now™?

Now is our fastest tier—a 36-hour installation upgrade for urgent timelines.

TwinkleTask Now™ is designed for last-minute gatherings, travel changes, or situations where you need lights installed right away. Now places your home at the top of the route queue while still respecting weather safety rules. It’s the highest-priority offering and is priced accordingly.

Do Priority upgrades override weather restrictions?

No. They move you forward as soon as it’s safe, but never past safety.

Priority, Rush, and Now help you move to the front of the line once conditions are safe again. They do not allow crews to work in unsafe conditions or override ladder, roof, or electrical safety standards. If weather affects your original window, we’ll reschedule your job into the next safe slot based on your chosen priority tier.

Repairs, Warranty & Support

What happens if a bulb or section goes out?

Just let us know—we’ll schedule a repair according to TwinkleTask Promise™.

If part of your display goes dark during your active season, reach out via TwinkleConnect™, TwinkleChat™, phone, or text with a brief description and, if possible, a photo. TwinkleTask Promise™ includes 24-hour repair scheduling or the next safe, dry day for roof work. A trained crew member will diagnose the issue and repair or replace components as quickly and safely as possible.

What does TwinkleTask Promise™ cover?

It covers installation-related issues and normal-use defects for the season.

TwinkleTask Promise™ covers material defects under normal use, clips or connections that loosen under typical weather, and issues tied to our installation. It does not cover damage from pets, wildlife, landscapers, other contractors, home electrical problems, or severe storms. If a repair falls outside coverage, we’ll explain why and provide a clear quote before proceeding.

How do I request a repair?

Use TwinkleConnect™, TwinkleChat™, or call/text us with a quick description and your address.

You can request repairs by submitting a TwinkleConnect™ form, chatting via TwinkleChat™, calling, texting, or emailing hello@twinkletask.com. Including your name, property address, and a brief description of the issue helps us respond faster. We’ll confirm we received your request, review it, and schedule the repair window based on your priority level and weather.

How fast are repairs completed?

We aim to review within one business day and schedule repairs within 24 business hours or the next safe, dry day.

During normal periods, most repairs follow this 24-hour scheduling target. In extreme weather or peak weeks, timing may be affected, but we’ll communicate clearly and prioritize repairs that affect safety or large portions of the display.

SafeKeep™ Seasonal Storage

What is included with SafeKeep™ Seasonal Storage?

SafeKeep™ handles takedown, packing, storage, and pre-season prep for next year.

With SafeKeep™, we carefully remove your décor, pack it into labeled and barcoded bins, and transport it to an insured, climate-appropriate facility. Before the next season, we inspect, test, and prepare your lighting for reinstall. SafeKeep™ customers also receive priority installation opportunities for the following year.

Where is my décor stored?

In an insured, climate-appropriate storage environment—not an attic or garage.

Your décor is stored in a facility selected to minimize heat, humidity, and pest risk—conditions that often shorten the life of holiday décor in typical home storage. Bins are organized by account and barcoded for accurate tracking. When next season arrives, we can quickly pull your décor for reinstall.

How do you track and label my items?

We assign barcodes and labels to each bin and associate them with your account and property.

We note where items were used on your home and keep photo references where helpful. This allows us to re-create your layout next year with minimal guesswork and helps us manage inventory if you add, remove, or upgrade décor over time.

What happens next season when my décor is reinstalled?

We pull your bins, review last year’s layout, and reinstall with priority scheduling.

Once you confirm you’re returning for the new season, we locate your stored décor, review previous notes and photos, and use TwinkleTech™ to confirm any layout changes. Then we schedule your installation with priority status and reinstall your décor, making adjustments only where needed.

Do SafeKeep™ customers get priority installation?

Yes. SafeKeep™ is designed to make next year easier and earlier.

Because your décor is already in our care and prepped in advance, SafeKeep™ members are often given earlier or more flexible installation windows. It’s one of the key benefits of keeping your lighting in our system from year to year.

Takedown & End-of-Season

When are lights removed?

Takedown usually happens in January, routed by neighborhood and ZIP code.

We typically begin takedowns shortly after New Year’s and continue through January. Routes are built by area to keep travel efficient and to ensure entire neighborhoods move back to off-season status gradually and predictably. You don’t usually need to schedule a specific time; we’ll visit during the takedown window announced for your area.

Do I need to be home for takedown?

Usually not—just make sure access is clear and pets are secured.

As long as gates are unlocked, driveways and ladder zones are accessible, and pets are kept away from work areas, we can complete takedown without you being home. If there are any special instructions or sensitive areas, you can share those with us in advance.

Why are some clips left on the roof after takedown?

We only leave clips when removing them could damage your roof or gutters.

On older roofs or delicate surfaces, pulling clips can sometimes lift shingles or damage trim. In those cases, we may elect to leave clips in place to protect your home. This is common practice in professional holiday lighting and is done to prioritize the integrity of your roof and finishes.

Policies, Terms & Privacy

How do I update my communication preferences?

Contact us any time to change SMS or email preferences—each channel is managed separately.

You can update preferences by contacting us through TwinkleConnect™, TwinkleChat™, phone, or email. You can also unsubscribe from marketing emails using the link at the bottom of those messages. Opting out of SMS does not automatically remove you from email, and vice versa—each is controlled separately so you can choose what works best for your household.

How does SMS consent work?

We only text you if you’ve agreed, and you can opt out at any time.

When you provide your phone number and agree to receive texts, you consent to receive messages from TwinkleTask at 877-955-5550 regarding account notifications, customer care, delivery updates, and TwinkleTask service-related marketing. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Message frequency varies, and message and data rates may apply. You can reply STOP any time to unsubscribe or HELP for assistance.

How is my personal information protected?

We collect only what’s needed to serve you and do not sell customer data.

TwinkleTask uses your information to provide services, schedule installations, communicate updates, and improve your experience. We do not sell your data or share mobile opt-in information with third parties for marketing. Data is stored in secure systems with access controls, and we retain information only as long as necessary for service, legal, or operational reasons. For full details, see our Privacy Policy.

Everything Else

Do you install lights I already own?

Our standard service uses professional-grade systems we provide; customer-owned décor is case by case.

To maintain safety, reliability, and warranty coverage, we primarily install our own professional-grade lighting systems. In limited cases, we may work with customer-owned items, but this is not standard and may impact coverage under TwinkleTask Promise™. If you have special décor you’d like to discuss, reach out and we’ll let you know what’s possible.

Do you offer custom or commercial displays?

Yes, in select situations and with separate planning.

While our core focus is residential Lighting Packages and Enhancements, we can sometimes design custom or commercial displays for neighborhood entrances, small businesses, or community features. These projects are scoped and scheduled separately from standard packages. If you’re considering a custom or commercial project, contact us early in the season so we can plan accordingly.

Helpful links

Contact
TwinkleConnect™
TwinkleChat™
Phone: 877-955-5550
Email: hello@twinkletask.com