How To Avoid Damage Caused By Holiday Lights

The holiday season is upon us, and with it come many traditions that add festiveness and frivolity to our days. Whether we live in a climate where we see snow at this time of the year, or we are looking out onto a greener landscape, many of us choose to hang holiday decorations in celebration of the season.

Don't be a Griswold

Unfortunately, many of us do not properly hang holiday decorations, which results in damage to our siding, gutters, and roofline that can have more significant consequences long after the holiday season is over. Clark Griswold may have gotten away with it for a season, but long-term installation of holiday lights, garland, and other decorations can leave us with hefty repair bills from our trusted roofing contractors. Read on to see just how we should be installing our decorations and have peace of mind that no matter what season, your roof will maintain its strength and longevity for years to come.

Do not use staples

While it may seem like the most efficient way to secure lights along your roofline, please do not use staples to place decorations on your roof. Staples will leave small holes in your shingles, reducing their effectiveness and leaving your home susceptible to moisture, leakage, and damage to interior structures.

Invest in plastic clips

Many holiday decoration companies are now manufacturing plastic clips that are specifically designed to secure lights to the exterior of your home. Clips can be found in many big box stores as well as many party supply stores. If you have items that cannot be attached to hooks, consider weighted bags or sandbags to hold things in place.

Consider the weight of your decorations

Before you put a full-size sleigh and some wooden reindeer up on your roof----complete with Santa---think about the potential damage you could do to your roof's infrastructure. Not only will you likely incur shingle damage, but you could also risk damage to your roof in the form of a collapsed or sunken area that will need to be repaired immediately.

Avoid using your ladder

Putting your ladder up against your gutter system to hang decorations is a big no-no, as it can cause significant damage to your gutter system and your roofline. You also risk injury to yourself if you are not experienced with climbing and hanging simultaneously. If you must use a ladder, consider using a free-standing one and ask someone to support you in your holiday decorating efforts. Your roofing contractor and your doctor will thank you.

Avoid walking on your roof

Not only is walking on your roof dangerous, but you could also be doing damage to shingles and flashings by being up there for an extended period of time. Perforations and small sections that break away can leave your roof and your home susceptible to moisture, mold, and water damage. If it cannot be hung or fastened with minimal effort, consider putting those decorations in a different place.

Consider your yard as an alternative option for expressing your holiday cheer

If you are newly concerned about the weight of decorations or your roof structure's integrity, consider your yard as a viable option for spreading holiday cheer. While some of these decorations may not be as visible, they will be easier to remove, and you are not risking roof damage when installing or removing them.

Len's Roofing: Wishing you a happy holiday season!

We want your whole holiday season to be happy, merry, and bright; if one of your holiday traditions is hanging holiday decorations, consider making some of these changes to keep your home and roof secure and safe this season. Len's Roofing professionals can offer professional advice and inspections to ensure that your roof is in tip-top shape, no matter what the season. Contact us now to see how we will help maintain and preserve the integrity of your roof for years to come. Call today at 941-896-7897 or visit https://www.lensroofing.com/ for more information.