Table of Contents
Key Takeaways: ShawTech vs Trimlight
- Trimlight is fully installed, but usually costs quite a bit more
- ShawTech gets you a very similar end result at a much lower price
- The tradeoff is doing the installation yourself
- ShawTech is designed to make that DIY process manageable
- Most people are deciding between saving money or saving time
ShawTech vs Trimlight: Key Differences
| Feature | ShawTech Lighting | Trimlight |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | ~$6–$10 per foot | ~$20–$40 per foot |
| Installation | DIY | Professional |
| Appearance | Clean, professional look | Clean, professional look |
| Effort | Moderate | None |
| Support | Direct help if needed | Install handled for you |
ShawTech vs Trimlight: What’s the Real Difference?
If you’re comparing ShawTech vs Trimlight, you’re probably deciding between DIY permanent Christmas lights vs professional installation, and whether the price difference is actually worth it.
Both options aim for the same end result. The difference is how you get there, and what you pay along the way.
What Is Trimlight?
Trimlight is one of the more established companies in this space. They focus on fully installed permanent lighting systems, so you’re not doing any of the work yourself.
A crew comes out, installs everything, and you’re done. The lights are tucked under the soffit so they stay out of sight during the day.
What Is ShawTech Lighting?
ShawTech is built for homeowners who want that same look without paying for installation.
Instead of sourcing parts yourself, you get a complete system with everything included. That cuts out a lot of the time people usually spend researching how to build a setup from scratch.
You can explore the DIY permanent Christmas lights kits here
Cost Comparison: ShawTech vs Trimlight
For most people, this is the deciding factor.
Trimlight installs usually fall somewhere between $5,000 and $10,000 depending on the size of the home. That includes labor, scheduling, and everything that comes with a full-service install. Price varies depending on the size, complexity of the roofline, and the Trimlight dealer doing the installation.
ShawTech setups tend to land much lower. Most homeowners end up in the $1,500 to $3,000 range for a similar layout.
If you just want the quick numbers:
Trimlight
- $20–$40 per foot installed
- ~$5,000–$10,000+ total
ShawTech
- ~$9–$12 per foot
- ~$1,500–$3,000 total
We’ve had plenty of people reach out after getting a quote and trying to figure out if the difference makes sense. For many homeowners, ShawTech ends up being one of the more practical Trimlight alternatives simply because of the cost difference.
Appearance Comparison: Do They Look the Same?
This is usually the next question.
A lot of cheaper DIY setups don’t look great, so it’s a fair concern. A lot of the cheaper DIY systems (see our post about ShawTech vs Govee Permanent Lights) tend to have LEDs falling off, wires exposed, and very wide light spacing. All these combined makes for a generally messy look.
The difference comes down to how the lights are mounted and spaced. When everything is installed cleanly using a proper channel system, the end result looks consistent and blends in well with the house. Both Trimlight and ShawTech Lighting’s systems are very similar in this regard, meaning both during the day and night, they look great!
Installation Comparison: DIY vs Professional Installation
This is where the experience changes.
With Trimlight, you don’t have to think about any of it. You contact them, they come give you a quote, and they handle the installation from start to finish.
With ShawTech, you’re doing the install yourself. That usually means working on a ladder, mounting channels, and running wiring. It takes some time, but most homeowners can handle it.
The difference is you’re not figuring everything out on your own. The system is already put together, and there’s guidance if you need it. If you’re still in the research phase and have questions on whether our system is a good fit for you, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Why Trimlight Costs More
When you get a Trimlight quote, you’re paying for:
- Labor
- Scheduling and travel
- Business overhead
- Installer margins
That’s where most of the price difference comes from.
Who Should Choose Trimlight?
Trimlight makes sense if you want a fully hands-off experience and don’t want to deal with installation.
Who Should Choose ShawTech Lighting?
ShawTech makes more sense if you want to keep costs down and don’t mind handling the install yourself.
It’s especially a good fit if you want a DIY permanent lighting system without having to research everything from scratch.
If you’re comfortable with basic home improvement projects, installing permanent lighting is very similar to other exterior upgrades covered by sites like This Old House.
Final Thoughts: ShawTech vs Trimlight
Most homeowners comparing ShawTech vs Trimlight are trying to decide if the convenience of professional installation is worth the added cost.
Both options get you to a similar end result. The difference is how much you’re willing to pay to get there.
FAQ: ShawTech vs Trimlight
In ShawTech vs Trimlight, which is better?
It depends on your priorities. Trimlight is easier since it’s fully installed. ShawTech is more cost-effective if you’re willing to install it yourself.
How much does Trimlight cost?
Trimlight typically costs $20–$40 per foot installed, depending on the home.
Is ShawTech a good Trimlight alternative?
For many homeowners, yes. It provides a similar result at a lower cost if you’re comfortable with DIY.
Is DIY permanent Christmas lighting worth it?
For homeowners willing to install it themselves, DIY permanent lighting can save thousands while still delivering a clean, professional look.
Still comparing options?
If you’re trying to decide between DIY and professional lighting, these guides can help:
