Metal roofs have become much more popular in recent years. They can be seen hanging on traditional homes, to full-framed metal homes, and even businesses might have metal roofs. Whether you have a standard home or a metal home, having a metal roof might be different when it comes time to put up your Christmas lights.
Some might think that the different roof material would make hanging lights more difficult, but lo and behold, it’s the same level of difficulty. If you thought that putting up Christmas lights on traditional shingles was easy, then lights on a metal roof will be easy. If you think putting up lights on the roof is challenging, we have good news: it’s easier than you might think.
Joking aside, metal roofs should actually make the process a little bit easier than with traditional shingles or any other materials. We have put together a step by step guide on how to install lights onto a metal roof.
First, let’s take a look at some of the different options you have for getting your lights up on your metal roof.
Here is a link if you’re in need of a bulk purchase of C7 and C9 Clips. With these clips, all you have to do is put the magnetic side to your metal roof. The strength should hold up nicely while you string your lights and throughout the duration of the holidays. And you can even get them on Amazon as well.
Another magnetic option is magnetic hooks. These are available on Amazon, called, Netany x228 12 LB Heavy Duty Magnetic Hooks, in a pack of 12 with a pull force of 12lbs. A great advantage of magnetic hooks is you can use it for other purposes. Whether you use it for Christmas lights, outdoor decor, or even bring it inside to put on your fridge
Process: With the magnetic clips, simply snap a clip on every socket of a Christmas light cord constructed with 18 AWG wire. Be sure to choose specified clips based on your cord’s insulation specification. With the hooks, place the hooks in the desired line and hang the string of lights onto the hooks.
Test your metal roof with a common household magnet to confirm that a magnet will have a strong hold.
The next option to consider for your metal roof is outdoor command strips. These are a great option since they come in a variety of finishes, durable, and not permanent. If any mistakes are made, command strips are easy to remove and reapply.
Some amazing features of command strips are that they can withstand temperatures of -20°F to 125°F, UV & water-resistant, and each strip can hold up to 5 lbs.
Process: Make sure the surface is clean. Remove the back of the command strip seal to reveal the stick strip. Then place it onto the surface, holding for 10 seconds. You can follow 3M’s step-by-step instructions for applying and removing the strip (PDF).
Magnetic lights are the ideal option if you need to buy Christmas lights or you want to make your life a lot easier.
If you want to make life easier, we would defiantly suggest this method of hanging up your lights.
Process: Measure the area you want lights to make sure you have enough length. Litenetics lets you customize the bulb style, color, and size. It also lets you choose the spacing between each bulb.
Last on our list are plastic clips, to hang lights on a metal roof. This might be an easier option to find in your local hardware store. Again, this option can also be found on Amazon called, Adams Christmas 5150-99-1040 Mighty Light Clip or there’s another good option called, NOMA C9 LED Quick Clip Christmas Lights.
These clips are a good alternative if you want a budget-friendly option and already have Christmas lights.
Process: Clips can be attached to gutters or shingles easily and effectively.
When the holiday season is over and it’s time to take off your Christmas lights and decor, here are a few options to consider.
With either of these alternatives, you can go one step further by placing the lights and other decorations in a bag or box. Labeling the bag or box also helps with finding your decorations easily for the following holiday season.
Good luck with your holiday project this year and we hope these make the process easier. Happy Holidays!
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