Sydney Waters, the regional director for the Cape Girardeau Better Business Bureau, gives us some helpful tips when picking out the perfect tree for your family.
(WSIL) -- Every family has their own traditions. Some put up their Christmas tree before Thanksgiving, some the weekend after and others simply put their tree up when it's convenient. Or maybe you're in the market for a new tree this year, and you're waiting for those post-Thanksgiving flash sales to get a deal. Now's your time. There are a few things to look for, especially when you're purchasing a faux tree, that can make all the difference with your budget or your tree's appeal. Sydney Waters, the regional director for the Cape Girardeau Better Business Bureau, gives us some helpful tips when picking out the perfect tree for your family.
First things first, Waters says, make sure you measure your space. There's nothing like pining over the perfect tree, just to bring it home and find out it doesn't fit. Waters says, be sure to measure both the height and width of the space you intend to put your tree.
Now, ideally, you're shopping in-store for your tree. Waters says, you'll want to look for something specific, called the "tip count" of the tree. The tip count is the number of tips on the tree. The tip count is something a person can look for when it comes to affordability. The higher the tip count, the more expensive, and the more realistic looking the tree. Waters says, you'll also want to keep in mind what material the tree is made of. Very realistic artificial trees are made with polyethylene (PE), whereas older trees are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). When you think of PVC trees, think of the pipe cleaner trees our grandparents used to display.
Another detail that impacts the price tag is whether or not the Christmas tree is lit. There's a big difference in cost when it comes to getting a pre-lit tree. A pre-lit tree is often more expensive than one that does not come with lights. You should also consider if you're up for the challenge of relighting the tree, if one of the strings goes out. Waters says, sometimes, based on budget and technical skills, purchasing a lit tree (without lights) can really go a long way.
Overall, Waters says, make sure you stay in your budget and don't make purchases on the fly. She suggests doing your homework, research the trees you like or dislike, and if you can, shop in person.
