Trimming the trees and decking the halls makes the holiday season festive. But now that Christmas and New Year’s Eve are behind us, it’s time to start packing up the twinkly lights and gingerbread men until next year. It might be tempting to rush through your holiday decoration removal process and just get it out of the way as quickly as possible. But it is important to remember to prioritize your safety and protect your home and decorations from unnecessary wear and tear. At American Custom Contractors, we have lots of experience with rooftops and home exteriors. Here is our guide on how to remove holiday decorations safely this season.

1. Pace Yourself

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to tear down all of your decorations in less than a day. Remove lights and garland little by little throughout the week to make the task less daunting. Have your family pitch in and wrap up lights, stow away extension cords, and box up ornaments once you have removed them.

2. Choose a Good Weather Day

If you plan to be up on a roof or a ladder taking down lights or wreaths, choose a clear, sunny day. Don’t try to squeeze this project in at the end of a workday when the sun is setting. You need plenty of good lighting to keep your footing and remove decorations without breaking them.

3. Dress for Safety

If you must climb up a ladder and stand on the roof, it’s a good idea to wear sturdy, rubber-soled shoes to prevent slipping. Wear plenty of layers to protect yourself from the cold. Don’t rule out wearing a hard hat to protect your head. You may think it looks silly at first, but it could save your life if you fall.

4. Use the Buddy System

Have a friend, family member or neighbor hold your ladder steady as you climb up. While you work on the roof, make sure there is someone outside with you at all times. If you fall unexpectedly, you won’t want to be stranded without anyone to call for help. If your children are outside with you, make sure at least one of them is old enough to understand how to call an ambulance.

5. Pack Boxes with Care

Avoid shattered lights or ornaments by packing away your decorations carefully. Wrap strands of Christmas lights around pieces of cardboard or seal them up inside of Ziplock bags to prevent tangling. Bubble wrap breakable ornaments. Set everything inside of labeled boxes or plastic tubs to make it easier to find the right decorations next year.

We hope this guide helps you remember how to remove holiday decorations safely.

If you notice the need for roofing repairs or siding upgrades while you take down your decorations this year, give us a call at American Custom Contractors. We can assist you with all of your outdoor home improvement needs. Are you interested in roofing repairs, new siding, or energy efficient windows for your Maryland, Virginia, or Washington D.C. home? Our team of home exterior experts at American Custom Contractors can help. Give us a call at (301) 327-2013.