Roofing
Hiring a Contractor - Pros & Cons
Roof-repair Safety Tips
Let’s face it -- roofs are dangerous places. But sooner or later you’ll have to clamber up there to fix a leak, replace a vent or evict a family of squirrels. There are steps you can take to make working on your roof a lot safer.
Invest in roof brackets and it will pay off with greater safety and convenience. If your roof is especially steep, you might want to invest in a roof harness system as well.
Roof Smarts
When it comes to roofs, even the best safety equipment is no substitute for common sense and good judgment. Here are some tips for working safely:
Leave steep and/or high roof work to the pros. The few dollars you’ll save by doing it yourself aren’t worth the risk of death or a lifelong disability if you fall.
Pick a clear, calm, cool time of day to work on roofs. Wet roofs are slippery. Wind also poses a danger, and excessive heat softens the shingles, making them vulnerable to damage.
Wear shoes with a soft rubber sole for extra traction.
Keep the bottom of your shoes free of mud and dirt, and the roof swept clear of dirt and debris.
When you’re not using your power tools, secure them with short lengths of rope or Bungee cords. Keep hand tools and supplies in a 5-gallon bucket hung on a roof bracket.
Stay off slate and tile roofs. Loose tiles or slate can fall out and the surfaces are easily damaged if you’re not experienced.
Getting up to the Roof Safely
Buy or rent a sturdy extension ladder that extends at least 3 ft. above the roof edge. Aluminum is the lightest, but fiberglass ladders provide better protection against electrocution in case the ladder accidentally touches a power line or live wire. If possible, set the ladder on firm, level ground. On uneven ground, place squares of plywood under one foot to level the ladder base and then secure it with wire or rope tied to stakes. Fasten the top of the ladder with rope or wire tied to a secure anchoring point. That will keep it from sliding sideways as you step onto the roof.
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