Ask the Expert

A.

When I read your letter, I must admit, I went, "Ho, ho, ho." The first problem is, how do you plan to repair shingles with holes in them, and did you consider the holes in the paper below the shingles? Damaged shingles should be replaced, not filled with tar or silicone. Under the shingles, tar paper sheeting should be placed first. Thirty-pound paper is recommended. If the roof is a low slope, or you're pulling up a larger area, use a sticky-backed rubbery membrane called an ice and water shield. This will grip the nails without leaving holes. This job, like many, should be done with care and knowledge. You have too much to lose by doing it wrong. Hire an experienced roofer to make the repairs, but try to do it in warm weather.

As for mounting decorations on your roof, depending on the weight, size and anchor requirements, it's best to run anchor lines that are attached under the eaves of your roof rather than put any holes in your roof at all. Thin wire or nylon string, even fishing line, is better than nailing into your roof. The thought of damaging shingles, especially in winter, when we get snow, ice, melting water pooling up, and seepage, sends a chill through me. No roofer I know wants to go up on an icy roof in brisk wind to repair your roof, at least not without combat pay. I have absolutely no experience with putting decorations on a roof, and would never recommend it to anyone, although I love those slapstick comedies where someone always ends up falling head first into a snowbank in the front yard.

Another suggestion is to check all lights and decorations for labels and stickers that attest to the items' safety. Electrical hazards on roofs are all too common when wires, outlets, bulbs and any product of this type is misused. Remember that rain and snow can bury everything. Consider the possibility that your wiring and lights may be submerged under water when we get heavy snow that suddenly turns to rain. Some say I'm too pessimistic, but I feel badly when firefighters have to go out in terrible weather and be subjected to wind and cold because someone didn't think that wiring shouldn't be exposed to water. Make sure you use ground fault outlets that will cut off power at the first sign of a short. The life, property, and holiday you save may be your own, not to mention someone else's. Have a wonderful holiday season, and enjoy the festival of lights!

Readers are encouraged to send questions to: HERALD Homes, 379 Central Avenue, P.O. Box 220, Lawrence, N.Y. 11559-0220Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.