7 Ways to Safely Navigate Your Roof

Although it’s always recommended to hire the help of a professional roofing contractor for safety reasons, there may come a time as a homeowner when you’ll find yourself needing to get on your roof. Whether the reason is to check for damage, leaks, or for cleaning your gutters, safety should come first anytime you get onto a roof. Here are 7 ways to ensure you’re putting your safety first while accessing your roof.

1 – Prepare your workspace with a partner

Depending on your roof’s current situation, consider what tools and materials you’ll need in order to work on your roof. After you’ve figured that out, prep your workspace by having those materials ready nearby. It’s also important to know what you can and cannot do physically. For some people, getting onto a roof is not a good idea because they are not physically able to do so, or because of other concerns. Regardless of physical condition, having help in case something should happen is an important safety precaution and one that professionals recommend.    

2 – Ensure your ladder’s stability

Your ladder should rest on a hard, level, and sturdy surface otherwise major safety issues like falling can occur. Should your ladder rest in dirt or grass, digging small depressions or holes in the ground can provide stability by helping prevent slipping. With that said, it’s also important to pay attention to factors like texture and any surface your ladder is resting on. These things play a major role in ladder safety, so ensure you’re doing your part by working on a safe surface. 

3 – Pay attention to weather conditions

Weather plays an important role in roof safety. If it’s recently rained, or if snow has recently melted, moisture is on your roof. If there’s moisture on your roof then the surface of your roof is less stable and could potentially cause you to slip and fall. Fallen leaves that your roof might have collected can also make the surface of your roof slippery. Because of these factors, it’s always recommended to work in dry, clean conditions.

4 – Look for debris and other hazards

Any loose debris or other hazards like fallen leaves collected on your roof can obstruct the surface and make walking your roof dangerous. If you’re on your roof, you need the surface to be clean and dry so your balance can be even and controlled. You need to be able to see where you’re putting your feet so you can confidently navigate your roof. Good balance is an important aspect of roof safety so ensure your work area is clean and free from debris and other hazards.  

5 – Use a harness and safety equipment

Most homeowners don’t think to consider harnesses or other safety equipment when they work on their own roofs, but it’s an important step that shouldn’t be overlooked. Having a safety harness secured to anchor points on your roof is huge for roof safety. It will stabilize you and should you fall off, it will help protect you. Other safety equipment to consider having on hand are boots with good traction, a hard hat, and safety goggles.

6 – Pay attention!

The roof is one of the highest surfaces you can access in your home, and by far one of the most dangerous so it’s crucial to pay attention to what you’re doing and where you’re walking in order to avoid accidents.

7 – Hire a professional roofing contractor

It’s possible to take care of smaller, surface level roofing projects on your own, but only if safety is put first. Many homeowners are unaware of roof safety, or cannot meet the physical demands of doing it on their own. This is why it’s always smart to hire the help of a professional roofer to oversee roof repairs or maintenance. Put safety first by hiring a professional roofer.