The holiday season has arrived, and it’s time to light up your home with festive decorations! But did you know that decorating is also the perfect opportunity to give your home a quick health check? While you’re hanging twinkling lights and wreaths, take a closer look at your roof, siding, windows, doors, and decks. With just a few simple steps, you can ensure your home shines brightly this season and stays in top shape all winter.
Here’s how to decorate and inspect safely without damaging your home.
Start with a Plan to Inspect Your Home
Before you pull out the lights and garlands, take a few minutes to plan:
Choose Your Spots: Decide where to decorate—roofline, windows, doors, deck, trees, or fencing.
Inspect as You Go: Keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear around your home.
Gather supplies: Use a good ladder and tools that won’t damage your home, like plastic light clips, adhesive hooks, zip ties, or over-the-door hangers.
Team Up: Always have someone with you, especially if working on a roof or ladder. Safety first!
Planning ahead helps you stay organized and reduces the risk of damage.
Roof: Brighten Up and Protect Your Home from Above
Hanging lights along your roofline is a great way to add holiday charm, but it’s also the perfect time to check for issues:
Shingles: Look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles that could lead to leaks.
Flashing: Inspect the metal seals around chimneys or vents for gaps.
Gutters: Clear debris to ensure proper drainage and prevent ice dams.
Aging: If your roof is over 20 years old, get a professional roof inspection.
How to Hang Lights Safely on Your Roof:
Plan for Power: Map out your plug-ins and extension cords before starting, so you don’t overload outlets or end up short on reach.
Start at the Power Source: Begin hanging lights from the outlet and work your way outward to ensure everything connects seamlessly.
Choose the Right Clips: Use plastic light clips to attach lights to gutters or shingles—no nails, staples, or screws that could damage your roof.
Ladder Smarts: Always use a sturdy, level ladder and have someone hold it steady. Avoid overreaching—move the ladder instead.
Protect Your Roof: Minimize walking on the roof whenever possible, but if you must, wear soft-soled shoes to reduce the risk of damaging shingles.
Tidy Cords: Use zip ties or cable organizers to keep extension cords neat and secure. Avoid dangling cords that could get snagged or cause tripping hazards.
Go LED: Opt for LED lights—they’re lighter, energy-efficient, and generate less heat, reducing fire risks.
Weather-Proof Your Setup: Use outdoor-rated lights and extension cords, and cover connections with weatherproof protectors to guard against rain or snow.
Keep It Cool: Space lights evenly to prevent hot spots, especially if they’re near siding, wood, or other flammable materials.
Windows: Keep the Cold Out and the Beauty In
Decorating windows with lights or wreaths is festive and functional. While you’re at it, check for:
Drafts: Feel for cold air around the edges. Seal gaps with caulk or weatherstripping.
Glass condition: Look for cracks or chips that could worsen with freezing temperatures.
Frames: Inspect for peeling paint or warping, which can signal moisture problems.
Old Windows: You might want a professional to inspect Windows over 10 to 15 years old.
Tips for Decorating Windows Outdoors Without Damage:
Use Adhesive Clips: Attach lights to the window frame with weatherproof adhesive clips that remove easily after the season.
Secure Garlands with Zip Ties: Use zip ties to hold garlands around window frames without leaving marks.
Suction Cups: Hang wreaths or decorations on smooth glass using heavy-duty suction cups.
Magnetic Hooks: For metal window frames, use magnetic hooks to hang lights or garlands.
Skip the Nails: Avoid using nails or screws that can damage the surface. Use non-invasive clips or hooks instead.
Wrap String Lights: Securely wrap string lights around window trim using clips designed for this purpose.
Weatherproof Everything: Ensure all decorations are suitable for outdoor use to withstand rain or snow.
Seal Cord Connections: Use weatherproof covers for extension cords to keep them dry and safe.
Siding: Add Lights and Look for Trouble Spots
Stringing lights along your siding gives your home a cozy glow, but don’t forget to check for:
Cracks or holes: Even small openings can let in moisture and pests.
Loose panels: Strong winter winds can worsen this issue, so secure panels now.
Discoloration: Stains may indicate water damage or algae growth.
Safe Decorating Tips for Siding:
Use siding hooks or adhesive clips to hang lights or decorations without drilling.
Doors: Welcome Guests and Seal Out the Cold
Your front door is a focal point for decorations, so why not inspect it while you add festive touches? Look for:
Weatherstripping: Gaps around the doorframe can let in cold air; replace worn seals.
Hardware: Ensure hinges, locks, and handles are secure and functioning properly.
Surface damage: Cracks or peeling paint can compromise the door’s durability.
Easy Decorating Tips for Doors:
Use over-the-door wreath hangers for a no-damage solution.
Add garlands around the frame with temporary adhesive hooks.
Decks and Railings: Stay Safe and Festive
If you’re adding lights or garlands to your deck, take a few moments to inspect it:
Wood condition: Look for rotting, splintering, or warped boards.
Fasteners: Ensure screws and nails are secure to avoid accidents.
Stability: Check that railings and steps are sturdy and safe to use.
Decorating Tips for Decks:
Use zip ties or soft wire to attach lights or garlands to railings.
Secure outdoor inflatables with stakes or sandbags to prevent them from shifting in windy weather.
Why Regular Inspections Matter
A quick inspection while decorating helps you:
Prevent costly repairs: Spotting small issues now avoids more significant problems later.
Boost energy efficiency: Sealing gaps and cracks keeps heating costs down.
Keep your home safe: Addressing structural concerns improves safety and longevity.
Stay Safe While Decorating
Use the right tools: Plastic clips, Command hooks, and over-the-door hangers are safe for your home.
Avoid overloading circuits: Use outdoor-rated lights and surge protectors.
Ladder safety: Always have someone hold the ladder and don’t overreach.
After the Holidays: Cleanup Made Easy
When it’s time to take down decorations, do it carefully to avoid damage:
Remove clips and hooks gently to prevent tearing shingles, siding, or paint.
Store lights neatly in labeled boxes to avoid tangling next year.
Clean gutters and inspect decorations for damage before storing them.
Call the Pros if You Need Inspection Help
Refined Home Services is here to help with your roofing and exterior home inspections. We’re experts in keeping your home safe and beautiful year-round, from roof replacement and repairs to installing siding, windows and decks.