Although we are in the prime time of the year for holiday lights, the season will end soon, leaving thousands of families questioning when they should take down their lights. For many, the lights are a fun, festive, and attractive way to get through the winter’s cold and dark aspects. For others, they are eyesores that should be taken down on Dec. 26. We at A. Brooks Construction Kanga Roof, Bristol’s residential roof replacement professionals, enjoy the holiday lights as much as the ones who put them up. Still, we also know that there are some serious concerns for leaving them up too long.
How Long is Too Long?
Sadly, there is no definitive answer to this question, but the three arguments that make the most sense to us are as follows:
-
12 Days
Ever hear of the 12 Days of Christmas? We would be surprised if you didn’t! Traditionally, the Christmas season lasts from Christmas Day (Dec. 25) to the Day of Epiphany (Jan. 5). So, from this perspective, Christmas decorations should be taken down on Jan. 6.
-
90 Days
Although the reason most families put up holiday lights is Christmas, many others set up their lights for purely decorative purposes as well. In both situations, numerous homeowners will leave their holiday lights up all winter long. Unfortunately, most holiday lights are only tested as decorations rather than fixtures, so manufacturers usually agree that 90 days is the maximum time you can safely leave the lights on your roof and in the yard.
-
When Your Neighbor Gives You The Look
Nearly everyone has a look they give to others when they do not approve of something. It could be squinted eyes, a furrowed brow, and a perceptible shake of the head, or it could be an exasperated expression with a purposely audible sigh. No matter what The Look is, you’ll know it when you see it — and when you see it, you may have left those twinkling icicles over your garage on a bit too long.
We appreciate those holiday lights, but there comes a time when they must come down, and you have to ensure that you are safe and have help! Prolonging the removal will leave wires exposed to the elements for too long and increase the risk of fire and electrical hazards. We know that the blustering, bitter winds of winter can discourage you from touching that ladder, but the sooner you get them down, the safer you and your family will be, and the longer your lights and decorations will last!
From all of us at A. Brooks Construction Kanga Roof, we hope you have a safe and happy holiday season! And remember, if you need any residential roofing services in Bristol, PA, give us a call today!
