For those who celebrate, Christmas is a magical time of year. The decorations, the food, and the time spent with family are all cherished memories many wouldn’t trade for anything. Aside from the traditional tree, one of the first things that people think of when it comes to Christmas décor are the strings of lights. While they may seem simple enough to put up, they can be a bit more complicated for those with a tile roof. Here are a few tips and tricks for hanging Christmas lights on a tile roof.
Buying the right lights
The first step is to purchase the correct type of lights. While many different types and colors of Christmas lights are available on the market, not all are suitable for a tile roof. You’ll want to purchase lights that are specifically designed for outdoor use and that are rated for the weather conditions in your area.
In addition, you’ll want to plan your lighting decoration design in advance and ensure that you purchase enough lights for your roof. Tile roofs come in various sizes, so measuring the length and width of your roof before you purchase your lights is essential. This will ensure you don’t end up with too many or too few lights. Nothing is worse than having to run out to the store in the middle of putting up your lights to buy more.
Inspecting the lights
Once you have the right lights, it’s important to inspect them before you begin. Check each light to make sure it is working properly. This can be done by plugging the lights in and testing them. It’s also a good idea to check for any damaged or frayed cords. Any damaged cords should be replaced before you attempt to put up your lights.
Stay safe
Safety is always the number one priority. Tile roofs can be slippery, so it’s important to take extra caution when climbing up. Make sure to wear appropriate shoes with good traction and, if possible, have someone spot you. Once you’re up on the roof, look at the tiles. Are they smooth or textured? If they’re smooth, you’ll want to be careful not to slip, and if they’re textured, you’ll want to avoid damaging them.
Hanging the lights
Now that you’re up on the roof and have assessed the situation, it’s time to start hanging those lights! If you’re using nails or staples, be sure to avoid the seams between the tiles. This is where the tiles are the weakest, and you don’t want to risk damaging them. Instead, focus on attaching the lights to the raised portion in the middle of each tile. This will provide a more secure hold.
As you’re attaching the lights, be sure to leave some slack. This allows you to adjust the lights if necessary and will also give you some wiggle room when it comes time to take them down. Keep an eye on the power cord as you continue attaching the lights. You don’t want it to get tangled or for it to be stretched too tight. You can use zip ties or hooks to secure the cord if you need to.
In terms of Christmas light placement, it’s really up to you. Some people prefer a more symmetrical look, achieved by evenly spacing out the lights. Others prefer a more whimsical approach, which can be done by grouping the lights in clusters or swirls. There is no wrong answer here, so go with whatever look you prefer to light up your house and help your neighborhood get into the holiday spirit.
Light removal
When reality sets in that Christmas is coming to an end, it’s time to start taking down the lights. This process is relatively simple, but it’s important to be careful. Begin by removing the lights from the raised portion in the middle of each tile. Once all of the lights are removed, gently pull the power cord off of the roof. If you used zip ties or hooks, remove these as well. While the temptation to leave the lights up all year may be strong, it’s best to take them down and store them properly. This will help extend their lifespan so you can enjoy them for many Christmases to come.
With these tips in mind, hanging Christmas lights on a tile roof doesn’t have to be a daunting task, so you can get out there and start spreading some holiday cheer! Your neighbors will be sure to appreciate it. If you need assistance preparing your roof for the holiday season, contact your local roofing professionals.
