The holiday season is upon us, and it’s time to start thinking about hanging those twinkling lights to spread some merry cheer. But, before you reach for that staple gun, consider the damage that holiday lights can cause to your roof and gutters. From punctured shingles to gutter damage, hanging holiday lights incorrectly can lead to expensive repairs. Here, we provide the top tips to safely hang your holiday lights without damaging your roof.

1. No staples, tacks or nails

Avoid using staples, tacks or nails to attach your lights to the roof as they can puncture shingles and cause water damage.

2. Use plastic clips, magnet lights or zip ties

Plastic clips and zip ties are the safest way to hang your lights from the edges of your roof. They are inexpensive, easy to use and won’t cause any damage. Magnetic lights offer an excellent alternative as they are attached to the gutters and do not require any clips or ties.

3. Don’t walk on your roof to install lights

Walking on the roof while installing holiday lights is dangerous, especially if you are not experienced. It can cause damage to shingles, and you could fall and injure yourself. Instead, use a sturdy ladder to hang your lights.

4. Display heavy or bulky decorations on the lawn instead of the roof

Some decorations are heavy and can cause structural damage to your roof. Consider displaying bigger decorations on your lawn or other areas where they are safe and cannot cause any damage.

5. Don’t hang lights from your gutters

Using the gutters to hang lights can put an enormous amount of weight on them and damage your gutters. Use plastic clips, zip ties or magnet lights to attach your holiday lights, bypassing your gutter system.

6. Practice ladder safety and always have a buddy to secure your ladder

Always use a ladder while installing your holiday lights and ensure it’s set up on level ground. Request help from a family member or friend to hold the ladder while you climb and secure it to the side of your house (not your roof) to prevent slipping.

7. Don’t brace the ladder against the gutters

The weight from the ladder could cause damage to the gutters if they bend or come loose. Instead, brace your ladder against the side of your home or other sturdy structures.

8. Be safe and prep everything before you climb the ladder

Check your lights before you climb the ladder to detect any damages that will cost you money later. Ensure that every item is within reach and secure to avoid reaching from the ladder, which could destabilize it and cause injury.

Hanging holiday lights can be a fun and festive way to showcase your home, but it’s important to take proper precautions to avoid damaging your roof or gutters. By following these eight tips, you can safely hang your lights and ensure that your roof remains intact while you celebrate the holiday season. Remember to always put safety first and have a happy holiday season!