It’s that time of year again — ladders are coming out and lights are going up. Before you climb up there, know this: staples and nails driven through your shingles are the number one way folks create a leak that won’t show up until spring, when it’s already done damage to the decking underneath.
Use plastic clip-on hooks made for gutters and shingle edges instead of nails or staples. They hold a strand of lights just fine without putting a hole in anything. Also watch the weather — shingles get stiff and brittle below about 45°F, so walking on a cold roof can crack them even if you’re being careful. Pick a warmer afternoon, and stay off the roof entirely if it’s rained in the last day or two.
While you’re up there, it’s a good time to eyeball your shingles, flashing, and gutters for anything that looks off. Found something? Snap a photo before the lights come down in January — we’re happy to take a look.