Nothing says the holidays like beautiful twinkling lights along your roof. Unfortunately, the process for hanging them can be frustrating and complicated. Before you pull out your ladder and tangled ball of lights, it’s best to prepare so that attaching your Christmas lights to your roof goes smoothly.
In this article, the roofing experts at Colonial Contracting, Inc. give their top tips on the best way to hang lights on your roof this holiday season to prevent damage to your home and ensure beautiful results.
Lay Out Your Lights Before Hanging
The first step in attaching lights to your roof is to detangle them and straighten them out fully. This allows you to ensure that all wiring and bulbs are in good condition, and that you have enough lights for your project. Homeowners should go in with a plan by laying out strands of lights logically so that you don’t have to do any rearranging while on the ladder.
Test Your Lights
Nothing is more frustrating than spending an entire Saturday hanging Christmas lights only for them to not turn on. To prevent wasted time and energy, test your outdoor lights before hanging them by plugging them into an outdoor outlet and ensuring they work. This also gives you the opportunity to find and replace any burnt-out bulbs when you are safely on the ground instead of attempting to replace individual lights once they are safely hung on the roof.
Use Waterproof Lights
Not all Christmas lights are rated for outdoor use. Some lights are only intended for indoor use on trees or mantles. To ensure that you have lights that can withstand the elements and the Virginia snow, opt for waterproof lights that are specifically designated for outdoor use. This can prevent dangerous electrical hazards and water damage.
Use a Timer
Once your lights have been successfully attached to your roof, you’ll want to ensure your neighbors can see your festive results. Instead of having to remember to manually turn them on and off, purchase a timer that handles it for you. These timers allow you to schedule your lights to be on at certain times of the day so that you don’t have to think about it. Plus, by turning lights off during the dead of night, you can save on your energy bills.
Avoid Walking On Your Roof
While it may be tempting to walk on your roof while putting up your lights, it can be dangerous and result in both personal injury and damage to your roof. To prevent potential roof repairs, use a ladder while installing your lights. Always place your ladder on a flat, even surface and have someone hold the base to keep you safe during installation.
Call CCI for Roofing Services
If you notice roofing issues when hanging your holiday lights, call the team at Colonial Contracting, Inc. We’re proud to offer expert services in Northern Virginia from our certified roofing professionals. As a family-owned and -operated company, we’re able to provide the personalized customer service you deserve. Plus, with our A+ rating with the BBB and unmatched attention to detail, you can expect nothing less than the best from our team.
Call Colonial Contracting, Inc. to schedule roofing services this holiday season.
