No, you should not leave LED Christmas lights up all year. While the LED lights themselves are very durable, their wiring and casings can be as vulnerable as any Christmas lights. They’re subject to drying out, experiencing cold or sun damage that causes them to crack, and even damage caused by gnawing pests. (The same is true of incandescents.) If you want your lights to last the years that they’re rated for, bring them inside after Christmas is over.
Aside from a professional light installation company, there are a few other pros who may be able to help you hang Christmas lights. Along with specialty holiday decorators, a handyperson near you can also hang Christmas lights (and can fix that pesky drippy sink while they’re at it). Either way, not all of these pros will offer the service, so be sure to call ahead and get multiple quotes before you hire.
Yes, if your roof is in stable condition, you should be able to hang Christmas lights from the eaves. Hang Christmas light directly from the eaves for best results, using light clips or an alternative type of adhesive. When installing lights on your eaves, be sure to work carefully and avoid adding too much weight or pressure to them.
Heavy amounts of snow could be a problem. In many climates, lots of snow on your rooftop can lead to freeze-thaw cycle that create ice dams, which can damage rooftops. But if you’re using shingle clips, this snow poses an additional problem: As it melts and freezes, it can easily dislodge clips you’ve placed on your roof.
You can clean snow off your roof after a fresh snowfall while it’s still lightweight, but brushing off snow can also dislodge your clips. If you get a lot of snow, then roof clips become less viable.
During the holidays, big box hardware stores sell many kinds of clips and hooks made specifically for hanging Christmas lights—including ridge clips, gutter clips, shingle clips, and mounted hooks. It’s best to avoid nails, staples, and screws since they can damage your roof.
The Mission, SD homeowners’ guide to holiday decorating services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Can I hire someone to decorate my house for Christmas? Learn how to find the perfect holiday decorator to make your home merry and bright for the season.
As the holidays wind down, we can still celebrate the wintertime with much-needed light, coziness, and style. Transition your home decor with a few easy tips.
