Holiday Outdoor Light-Hanging Tips to Avoid Roof Damage
Hanging holiday lights on your roof can be a great way to add festive cheer to your home, but it also poses the risk of causing costly damage.
If you are not careful about how you hang them, they could cause leaks in your roof when the snow melts or even collapse under the weight of ice and snow.
To avoid these problems, here are some tips for hanging outdoor lights safely this year.
Try Not to Get on the Roof
One of the easiest ways to avoid roof damage is by not getting on your roof in the first place.
It’s best to find a sturdy and stable ladder that can reach high enough above any trees or plants you may be pruning, and ensure it has wide feet for stability when placed against the uneven ground.
Ladder safety should always be considered before using one around power lines, hanging lights, etc., so consult an expert if necessary.
Use Plastic Light Clips
If you do have to get on the roof, use plastic light clips rather than nails or screws.
They are less likely to damage your shingles and will be easier to remove when it’s time to take down your lights.
Be sure that any ladders or other equipment you use is in good condition and properly secured before getting on the roof.
Watch Your Weight
One of the biggest dangers of hanging holiday lights is the weight they can add to your roof.
Even if you use plastic light clips, be sure to keep an eye on how much weight your roof can support.
Avoid putting up too many lights or using particularly heavy ones, like those made from metal.
Take Them Down When It Warms Up
When the weather starts to warm up in the spring, it’s time to take down your holiday lights.
Leaving them up too long could cause water damage when the snow and ice start melting off them.
Be sure to properly store any ladders or other equipment you used, so they are ready for next year.
Never Use Nails, Tacks, Screws, or Staples
Nails, tacks, screws, and staples should never be used for hanging holiday lights on the roof.
They will damage your shingles when you take them down or can fall out while they are still attached to your house.
If you must use nails (for example, if you want to attach a string of icicle lights), make sure not to hammer them in too far – just enough so that their heads stick out above the shingle line.
This way they won’t get stuck under snowfall or bent by high winds without coming loose from the roof itself.
Always Secure Ladders Properly Before Hanging Lights
Ladders can be very dangerous if not used properly.
Before using one to hang holiday lights, make sure it is fully secured and stable – no wobbly legs!
Make sure the ladder is also placed in a safe spot, away from power lines and other hazards.
If you are unsure about how to use a ladder safely, consult an expert before attempting to hang any lights.
Need Professional Roofing Help?
Following these tips will make sure you avoid winter roof damage during the holidays. If you need more roofing assistance, be sure to contact us today for a free estimate.