How To Stay Safe While Inspecting Your Roof for Damage
Inspecting your roof for damage is a crucial task that homeowners must undertake from time to time, particularly after harsh weather conditions. This maintenance step can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs. However, it's essential to remember that this task comes with risks, particularly when it involves climbing onto the roof. Safety should always be your priority. If you ever feel unsure or uncomfortable, calling a local roofing company is always a valid and safer option.
Planning and Preparations
Before embarking on any roof inspection, adequate planning is necessary. This includes checking the weather. You should only inspect your roof on a clear, calm day. Wet or windy conditions can make your roof slippery and dangerous. Even minor rain and dew can cause roofing materials to become dangerously slippery.
Prepare the necessary gear. Wear sturdy shoes that provide good traction. Gloves are always a good idea, especially if your roof is on the older side and there might be exposed metal or fiberglass. However, if you find yourself wondering if you need to invest in a safety harness or other professional-level gear, that’s probably an indication that your roof is too steep to safely inspect yourself, and you should call a professional roofer to do it for you.
Ladder Safety
Using a ladder is often necessary to access the roof. When setting up your ladder:
Place it on solid, level ground. If the ground is uneven, use ladder levelers.
Extend the ladder at least three feet beyond the edge of the roof.
Secure the top of the ladder to the roof or gutter using a ladder stabilizer to prevent it from slipping.
Always maintain a three-point contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) when climbing the ladder.
Never overreach or lean far to the side while on the ladder. If you can't reach something, climb down and move the ladder.
On the Roof
Once you're on the roof, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Move Slowly and Carefully: On the roof, every step counts. It's essential that your movements be slow, deliberate, and cautious. Rushing can lead to missteps or loss of balance, which can cause slips or falls. If you need to bend down or reach for something, do so carefully. Quick movements can disrupt your balance and lead to accidents.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Awareness is crucial when you're on the roof. Understand where you are at all times, and be careful not to wander too close to the edges. Always have a clear idea of where your exit point or route back to the ladder is. Also, watch out for any potential hazards like overhead power lines, tree branches, or unexpected wind gusts.
Check for Loose Shingles: Loose or damaged shingles can not only be a sign of roof damage but can also pose a slipping hazard. Before stepping on any area of the roof, ensure the surface is secure. If you come across any loose shingles, avoid stepping on them.
Use Roofing Brackets: If your roof has a steep pitch, consider using roofing brackets. These tools provide a flat platform to stand on, enhancing your safety. They are designed to attach to the incline of the roof, providing better footing and reducing the risk of slipping.
Avoid Stepping on Skylights or Other Features: Features such as skylights, solar panels, or vent pipes may not be designed to bear your weight. Stepping on them could cause damage and could also lead to a dangerous fall if they break under your weight. Treat these areas as no-go zones while you're inspecting your roof.
Professional Help
Even though lots of people can check their roofs safely and do a good job, it's important to remember that it can be risky. If your roof is very high, very steep, or if you just don't feel safe doing it, it's okay to call a roofing company for help. Companies like Resilient Roofing have tons of experience on all kinds of roofs, have the right tools, and know how to check a roof safely. Plus, they can spot problems that most people might not see. It's always better to stay safe than to get hurt, so don't be afraid to ask for professional help if you need it.