Christmastime is a season full of stunning light displays. Once you’ve tested every bulb and measured how long the strands should be, you need to understand the best ways to hang them. Following roofing contractor-approved guidelines will ensure you don’t injure yourself or damage the roof and gutters while you string up the lights.

How to Safely Hang Christmas Lights

1. Use Clips

While nails are likely the first solution that comes to mind, you should never use them to hang lights. Driving them into your gutters or soffits creates perforations where water can seep through. A roofing contractor will have to patch these areas to prevent leaks from developing. They may also have to replace these features if water damage has caused rot or mold and mildew growth.

Use plastic clips to hang the lights instead. These attach to the soffits or gutters without damaging the surface. You can also purchase adhesive clips. These alternatives are faster and safer than trying to hammer nails while balancing on a ladder.

2. Don’t Pull at Roofing Materials

Make sure you don’t lean on or brace yourself against the soffits, eaves, roofing, or gutters when hanging Christmas lights. This can cause dents, while sharp ladder ends can cut into the home’s exterior paint. Don’t pull on the drip edge or flashing to support yourself, and be careful when setting tools and other items on roofing materials. Damaged shingles create an entry point for insects and moisture to accumulate.

3. Walk Carefully On the Roof

Tread lightly if you climb on the roof to hang lights around the chimney or other features. Move as little as possible, and wear sneakers that provide traction and won’t damage the roofing materials. Consider wearing a harness that connects you to the chimney for added safety.

This is a great opportunity to also inspect your roofing. If you notice the flashing or shingles are loose or that the seals around skylights and vents look damaged, reach out to a roofing contractor so they can handle repairs before they worsen.

Homeowners in Tallassee, AL, turn to R & R Construction & Roofing when they need a roofing contractor. These skilled professionals have served the area since 2000 and have completed a variety of renovation projects. They install home siding, repair water damage, and build home additions. They also offer fire restoration services. Learn more about them online, or call (334) 283-2129 to schedule a design consultation.