One of the most enjoyable parts of the holiday season for many residents is the opportunity to see their roof all covered in lights. However, in the process of making your home look merry and bright, don't throw caution to the wind and cause unintentional damage to the structure. Instead, follow these outdoor decoration tips.

A Guide to Adding Holiday Decor to Your Roof

1. Check for Wire Damage

Inspect the wires for signs of deterioration, which could spark a fire. While any blaze is dangerous, one started on the roof is especially likely to encompass your entire home. Even something as innocuous as a burnt-out bulb might be a sign of a deeper issue and should warn you to replace the strand.

2. Invest in Plastic Clips

Don't nail or staple holiday decorations into your roof. Though it may be effective at keeping your lights in place, those punctures will harm the integrity of the shingles, making them more brittle and susceptible to crumbling as time goes on. This, in turn, can result in leaks and potential water damage. Instead, use plastic clips. While strong enough to hold up your decor, they also won't leave any permanent marks.

3. Remove One by One

While putting up lights can be fun, putting them away is always a hassle. However, while it may be tempting to pull on the wires and have everything come down at once, doing so will exert an undue amount of force on the shingles, possibly leading to breakages where the clips are connected. By going one at a time, the job will take a few extra minutes, but your roof will be no worse for the wear. 

If you notice any issues with the roof while you’re hanging holiday decorations, don’t hesitate to reach out to Thompson & Thompson 3rd Generation Roofing in Plattsmouth, NE. The family-owned company is available for everything from replacing shingles to gutter cleanings. You can request a free estimate by calling (402) 296-6051 or sending a message through the company’s website.