Tall ceilings, wobbly ladders, and frigid winds—setting up Christmas lights on a high roof—can rapidly create a festive disaster scenario. It doesn’t have to result in a crash landing, though, with the correct tools and a little care. Here’s how to securely and effectively light your roofline without running the danger of damage if your property towers above the ground. Find out more!
Check your ladder first, before even considering ascent. Select one rated for your weight and tall enough to avoid stretching to reach. Make sure the base is securely on level, stable ground; steer clear of soft grass, sloping ground, or anything slick. Shive the ladder to check for stability. Should it wobble, it is a “nope” from the safety elves.
Never start climbing without a spotter. As vital as your ladder is the person guiding you. They will deliver you supplies, keep the ladder steady, and call for aid should something go wrong.
Choose your outfit for the work. Make sure you have adequate traction boots or sneakers; Christmas slippers are best left inside. Steer clear of loose garments, scarves, and dangling objects that could catch and throw off balance.
Use mounting hooks or roof clips made especially to fasten lights. As they can damage roofing and cause leaks, skip nails, hammers, and staples. Clips holding your lights without damaging them will make you far better off.
Use light-hanging wands or extension poles for those difficult-to-reach corners. Although it might not be the most heroic method, always preferable than running unneeded risks on a ladder is keeping your feet securely on the ground.
Don’t run your circuits full tilt. Connect fewer strands together, verify wattage limitations, and use outdoor-rated extension cord. firmly tape connections, keeping plugs off the ground and covered from snow or rain.
It’s usually a good idea to get in the specialists if your roof is extremely high or steep. Local installers have the necessary tools, harnesses, and insurance to complete the work safely. Sometimes allowing the experts to perform the heavy lifting is the best safety precaution.
Take your time; seek for help when needed; constantly keep conscious of your limitations. The real gain is getting your lights turned on securely and enjoying them all through the season; holiday cheer shouldn’t have to sacrifice your health.