Festive Spirit Meets Smart Safety
The holiday season brings joy, warmth, and the irresistible urge to deck the halls—and the roof. But before you climb the ladder with a box of lights, consider how your decorating choices can impact your roof—and your well-being.
Common mistakes can lead to costly home damage or even personal injury. But, if you follow a few smart tips and have the right products, you can celebrate safely and beautifully.
Safe Hanging Techniques
- Clips, Not Nails or Staples: Use plastic clips, which securely hold lights to asphalt shingles and gutters without causing damage. Penetrating fasteners create punctured roofing materials, leading to leaks and long-term deterioration.
- Avoid Walking on Your Roof—Especially in Cold Weather: Cold shingles are more prone to cracking. Inspect your roof from the ground with binoculars. Leave rooftop travel to sure-footed professionals.
- Protect Gutters: Wires or adhesives can warp or pull gutters loose; use non-invasive clips and hooks to keep your decorations secure without damaging your home’s exterior.
Start with Resilient Options
When it comes to protecting your home during the holidays—and throughout the year—CertainTeed roofing options offer unmatched durability, breath-taking curb appeal, and proven performance.
- The Integrity Roof System® offers a comprehensive, coordinated solution. Components work together to ensure long-term protection, beauty, and performance. These include:
- Landmark® Shingles combine style with strength, making them ideal for winter decorating and long-term, year-round roof protection. These dual-layer asphalt shingles provide excellent wind-, impact-, and fire-resistance.
- VYCOR® self-adhered underlayment options help protect against water backup behind ice dams and wind-driven rain.
Be Weather-Aware!
The calendar may say it’s time to decorate, but we say pay attention to what’s happening outside.
- Decorate on Dry Days: Clear, mild days reduce the risk of damaging cold materials or—more importantly—slipping. Protect yourself! Avoid working during or after snowfall, and never attempt to install lights on icy surfaces.
- Avoid Winter Hazards: Ice dams and snow accumulation can compromise your roof’s integrity, and sometimes even cause water intrusion into your home.
Shine Bright Without the Risk
Holiday decorating should be joyful—not hazardous. By staying alert to the weather and using safe hanging techniques, you can create a festive display without damaging your roof—or yourself! CertainTeed’s portfolio of proven products and innovative solutions is built for this.