Protecting Your Roof from Holiday Home Decorations

Cooler days are a sign of the holiday home decorations season. Between inflatable witches, holiday lights, skeletons in the trees, and a jolly elf or two, many of those decorations may make it to the roof of your home. After all, the roof is often the largest, most visible canvas you have available. 

Here are a few tips for making the most of your holiday ambitions while keeping you and your roof safe. 

Tips for Installing Home Decorations on Your Roof 

Before starting any project, take the time to create a plan and review each step. As you plan, consider the following tips: 

Beware of Electrical Cords 

Many of today's best decorations require electricity, but that can be a problem on the roof. Don’t get shocked if those tangled electrical cords cause problems. Keep it simple and avoid overly complex cord placement. Use a portable outdoor circuit if you can, and make sure the ends of the cord are secure. Check that if your decoration falls, the cord won’t cause damage on the way down. 

Consider the Weather 

Keep in mind the potential weather that your decorations might face. A giant banner won’t survive the high winter winds in many regions. Likewise, heavy snow can weigh down the lights you strung between the trees and your roof, potentially causing damage. 

Never Use Staples or Nails 

Staples and nails might seem like the easiest and safest way to secure your decorations, but they create holes that can damage roofing materials. Even a small hole can allow water to get into your home's envelope, causing significant damage, mold, and expensive repairs. No one wants a leaky roof at Christmas. Roofing clips are a safe option for securing decorations, as long as you don’t secure too much on a single clip. 

Planning Holiday Inflatables  

So, what is safe to put on the roof? Heavy objects like statues can cause damage, but so can an inflatable if it slips. We suggest not using any decoration other than lighting on a roof slope greater than 40 degrees. Don’t put any decorations near power lines or the chimney.  

Safety First!  

As with any home project, safety for you and your home should be the highest priority. Never work at night. Make sure you have adequate light and safe working conditions, so avoid rain and wind when working. Take your time. Don’t rush, especially when working on the roof. Make sure to use a spotter when working on a roof and have someone available to help move heavy objects. When in doubt, stop and review your plan. 

Rely on a Professional for Complex Jobs 

The holidays are a time for family fun. But damage to your roof or an injury can seriously disrupt your plans. The best home decorations aren’t worth the lost fun and stress that a decorating accident can cause.  

If you have any concerns about your holiday decorations or working on your roof, then call a professional. They may be able to provide tips or suggest a safer strategy for reaching your goals.