Callbacks eat into margins faster than anything else—and 9 times out of 10, water is the culprit.
If you’ve ever had a string fail after the first storm, you already know why IP ratings matter. Choosing the right waterproof rating means fewer warranty trips, happier clients, and more time for profitable installs.
What Installers Need to Know About IP Ratings
An IP rating (Ingress Protection) has two numbers:
- First = solids (dust, debris)
- Second = liquids (water)
The higher the number, the better the protection.
But here’s the key: don’t just memorize the codes—know which rating keeps you from eating labor costs.
Common Ratings You’ll See (and When to Use Them)
| Rating | Protection Level | Where It Makes Sense |
|---|---|---|
| IP44 | Splash resistant | Covered porches, summer installs |
| IP65 | Rain/snowproof, dust-tight | Rooflines, fences, exposed trees (installer go-to) |
| IP67 | Temporary submersion | Ground-level lighting, near fountains, heavy exposure |
💡 Pro Hack: Default to IP65 for rooflines. It’s tough enough for rain and snow and BSL's lights can withstand sub-freezing temperatures.
Why Choosing Wrong Costs You Money
Every callback = lost billable hours. Using IP44 where you needed IP65 means you’re climbing the same ladder twice—on your dime. On the flip side, overspec’ing with IP67 everywhere eats profit margins unnecessarily.
The sweet spot for most seasonal installs? IP65.
Why Pros Stick with Big Star Lights
Big Star Lights was founded by a former installer frustrated with cheap retail lights failing in Vancouver’s wet winters. That’s why every product is:
- Sealed with epoxy glue and silicone for maximum water resistance
- Built for North American weather extremes
- Backed with a 5-year warranty, meaning fewer failures, fewer callbacks, and more profit in your pocket
Final Word
IP ratings aren’t just numbers on paper—they’re insurance against lost time. Choose the right rating, match it to the install, and you’ll spend more time invoicing and less time climbing ladders twice.
👉 Check out Big Star Lights’ outdoor-rated collection to keep your installs dry, durable, and profitable.
Summary for Installers
- IP = dust + water resistance rating
- IP65 is the installer’s go-to for rooflines & exposed installs
- Wrong ratings = callbacks; overspec = wasted margin
- Big Star Lights’ pro-grade lights are built for North American weather, backed by 5-year warranty