It’s time to set up those fantastic light displays for christmas decorations! During all the festive fun, it’s easy to overlook the importance of taking safety precautions. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 14,800 people had to visit the ER due to holiday decorating-related injuries. 

In the spirit of the season, in this post, we share a few roof safety tips to help you avoid a holiday decorating ER visit.

Have a Plan & Prep Beforehand

Christmas decorations hanging from the roof are not a permanent home improvement but are still a big job! Like any other home improvement job, hanging Christmas lights takes some planning. Measuring can save you a lot of headaches and trips up and down the ladder. Take a look at your house, review your measurements and inventory your lights. Then decide what you need to buy, what you plan to use, and where you plan to use it. Measuring and planning are even more important in a new home!

Use the Right Ladder

The right size ladder is crucial when hanging rooftop Christmas decorations and lights. A ladder needs to be sturdy and the right height for your roof. Ladders that are too short or too tall can be unstable and result in injuries.

Secure the Christmas Decorations

All decorations must be tied down and secured to the roof. Wind can easily pick up decorations and carry them away, possibly causing damage to your roof or injuries to people or property on the ground. Zip ties, plastic clips, and other fasteners help secure Christmas decorations on the roof.

Don’t Work Alone

Roofing tips would not be complete without saying, “Don’t work alone!” It’s much safer to work with a helper. From holding ladders to handing things up once you are on the roof, a friend or family member can be very helpful and provide another level of safety.

Indoor/Outdoor Lights and Cords

It is critical to ensure all lights, decorations, and extension cords are for outdoor or indoor/outdoor use. Proper lighting and cords are a fire safety step and a way to maximize the longevity of your lights. Indoor lights won’t last long outside. Lights and cords that are indoor/outdoor are made to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Keep Your Roof in Shape

Before installing any roof decorations, it is a good idea to perform a self-inspection or schedule a professional roof inspection to check for damage and make necessary repairs. Keeping your roof in good condition helps extend the life of your roof and can help keep you warm and dry all winter.

Roof Evolution

Happy holidays from the Roof Evolution team!

If you need a roof inspection or repairs as you prepare for the holidays, contact our residential roofing experts today. We are a residential roofing company with 25 years of experience, capable of working with any roofing. Our team is ready to serve you!