Roofing Safety

If you are the DIY type of homeowner and want to do your own cleaning/maintenance, even minor repairs on your roof; please read these general considerations and learn more about safety equipment. If you’re not comfortable with heights or your roof is too sloped, don’t hesitate to leave it to the professionals!

General Considerations

Keep these tips in mind every time you get on your roof:

1. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, rubber-soled shoes with good ankle support, and a hat for sun protection.
2. Only work on the roof if the weather is dry, calm and warm. A ladder or roof that is wet from rain or frost, can be dangerously slick and a sudden wind can knock you off-balance. Make sure to keep your shoes clear of wet grass and mud as well. Do not get on the roof when lightning threats.
3. Once on the roof, be alert for slippery, brittle or old roofing materials, and rotten decking.
4. Avoid contact both with power lines.
5. Pace yourself and take frequent rests, if you feel fatigued stop work for the day.
6. Keep children and pets away from the work area, they can be hurt by falling materials.

Safety Equipment

If you’re going to do minor repair work on your roof, buy or rent the proper safety equipment:

1. Metal ladder brackets.
2. Roof brackets of toe board jacks.
3. Safety belt or harness.

Ladders

Make sure to inspect your ladder for cracks or weaknesses before you lean it against the house. Then place the ladder on a firm, level ground. The distance between the ladder’s base and the wall should be equal to 1/4 the length of the ladder.