How to Hang Christmas Lights on the Roof
It’s the holiday season in Minnesota, and it’s time to start decking your halls and the front of your house with Christmas lights. But it’s important to hang your lights carefully so they don’t cause damage to your roof.
With a few simple precautions, you can transform your home safely into a holiday wonderland without damaging so much as a shingle. In this post from Budget Exteriors, we’re covering everything you need to know to hang holiday lights safely without damaging your roof. When you need residential roof repair services, give us a call.
Start With a Plan
Like most things, the key to a perfect Christmas light installation is starting with a solid plan. Although pulling out those holiday lights can be exciting, don’t get ahead of yourself. Instead, grab your trusty pencil and paper and formulate a strategy that works.
These are a few things to consider adding to your plan:
● Create a focal point around your front door or landscape features.
● Add lights around inflatables.
● Line the driveway with lights or decorations.
● Add net lights to your trees, shrubs, and bushes.
● Line the roofline, windows, door frames, and eaves.
● Don’t forget your mailbox and architectural details like columns.
● Consider using icicle lights on the edge of your roof.
● Decide on a color palette before getting started.
Hanging Your Lights
Once you’ve figured out where you want to hang your lights, it’s time to break out measuring tape. Measure the total length of all areas where you plan to hang lights as well as the length of extension cord you’ll need to reach a power source. Next, make sure your existing lights are free of damage that could create a safety risk and check to make sure your lights all work. If you plan to purchase holiday lights this year, consider LEDs since they last much longer and they’re much easier on your energy bills.
To hang your lights, use extension cords that are rated for outdoor use. Instead of staples, use light clips to hang your lights. Light clips won’t hurt your roof, and they’re easy to install and remove. When possible, attach light clips to your gutters.
When installing your lights, be sure each light is pointed in the same direction so they look uniform from the street. Use a timer so you don’t have to worry about turning your lights on and off each evening.
Trust Your Minnesota Residential Roof Repair Pros
While you’re installing your holiday lights, keep an eye out on the condition of your roof and look for damaged shingles or flashing. If you see any signs of trouble, call our roofers right away at 952.887.1613 or contact us online to stop any problems in their tracks. And have a great holiday season this year!