As Canadians deck their halls for the festive season, a leading contractor is urging homeowners to exercise caution. What many see as harmless holiday cheer can, in fact, lead to serious damage to your property.
Common Decorating Hazards and How to Avoid Them
Contractor Kevin McLister of Bolt Builders recently outlined the primary risks associated with seasonal decorations in an interview with TheSpruce.com. His expert advice highlights several items that require careful handling to prevent costly repairs.
Fire Risks and Surface Damage
Candles pose a well-known fire threat, but their dangers extend beyond flames. McLister points out they can leave stubborn soot on walls and ceilings, scorch wooden furniture, and melt delicate finishes. His recommendation is to choose flameless LED candles, many of which feature realistic flickering effects, remote controls, and timers. If traditional candles are a must, ensure they are secured on a sturdy surface, well away from any flammable materials like curtains or dried garlands.
A dry Christmas tree is another significant fire hazard. "People don't realize how fast a tree can catch on fire when it's dry, and even modern lights pose a risk," McLister warned. To mitigate this, keep the tree stand consistently filled with water. Position the tree at least 10 centimetres from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, or vents. Always use cooler-burning LED lights and never place candles on or near the tree.
Structural and Utility Damage
Heavy decorations hung without proper support can wreak havoc on your home's interior. Oversized ornaments or stockings can rip drywall anchors straight out of the wall or damage mantels. McLister suggests opting for lighter alternatives and using removable adhesive hooks designed for temporary use. For long items like garlands, distribute the weight evenly by spacing out multiple support hooks.
Outdoors, the wrong anchoring method can lead to disaster. "I've had clients call after the holidays asking why their sprinkler system isn't working, only to find out a holiday inflatable stake has pierced a water line," shared McLister. He advises against using metal stakes and recommends sandbags or soft, plastic anchors instead. Before driving any stake into the ground, check your property map to avoid underground utility lines. Never place heavy or sharp objects above these areas.
Electrical Safety Is Paramount
Poor electrical practices are a leading cause of holiday-related home fires. Overloading extension cords is a critical mistake, as is leaving cords coiled, which can cause dangerous heat buildup. "Distribute plugs across multiple outlets or use power strips with built-in surge protection," McLister advised. A fundamental rule is to use lights certified for their specific location: outdoor lights outside, indoor lights inside. Choosing LED lights over incandescent ones is a smarter move, as they are more energy-efficient and generate far less heat, reducing fire risk.
By following these professional tips from Kevin McLister, Canadians can ensure their holiday season is both joyful and safe, protecting their homes from preventable damage while celebrating in style.
