Who doesn’t love a festive display? Holiday lights are one of the best ways to express your holiday spirit as you spread the joy with your family and neighbors.
Whether you put up a modest display or go full Clark Griswold, if you are hanging lights on the exterior of your home, be sure to heed our advice to preserve your roof. It’s not worth having a beautiful display if you do damage to your roof or gutters in the process.
Here are some of our best tips to hang those lights like a pro — and stay safe while doing it:
- Make a plan before you even go outside. Know what to expect and where you plan to place your festive decor.
- Make safety your priority. Take your time to check your extension cords and outlets, making sure they are in good working order and suitable for outside use. Work with a partner when you are climbing up high or working with electricity.
- Get everything ready before you get on the ladder. If something needs to be put together, take care of it while you are still on the ground.
- Don’t use nails or staples. Instead, use plastic clips.
- Choose string lights instead of icicle lights. Icicle lights are easy and cost-effective, but they can heat up quickly. String light bulbs are less likely to melt ice and damage your roof. LED lights are another option and use far less energy than icicle lights.
- Don’t put too many lights or decorations in one place on your roof. Try to balance the weight.
- Avoid putting decorations directly on roof vents.
- Don’t walk on the roof. Not only is walking on the roof dangerous, you could damage your shingles.
Have questions? Contact us. Our professional roofers at Adams & Coe are here year-round to make sure your roof is in good shape for the safety and longevity of your home. For all your residential roofing needs, no matter the season, you’re always covered with Adams & Coe.