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5 Tips to Stay Safe When Working on a Steep Roof

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Tips to Stay Safe When Working on a Steep Roof

If you own a house, you may need to repair the roof at some time. Working on a steep roof is dangerous, so this isn’t something to take lightly. While these are the general safety guidelines to follow Tips to Stay Safe When Working on a Steep Roof, there is still a lot more you can do to be safe, number one being hiring a licensed professional to complete the work. But we’ll go over some of the most important aspects of steep roof repair safety in this post should you choose to tackle the work yourself.

Tips to Stay Safe When Working on a Steep Roof

Here are a few tips to help you stay safe when working on a steep roof.

1. Use a Ladder Properly

This typical piece of equipment is important for roof access, whether you’re working with a team or on your own. The first and most critical step before reaching the roof is to put up your ladder. Make sure you’re working on level ground and have someone at the bottom of the ladder, if feasible, for increased safety. If not, be sure to block the bottom of the ladder.

You’ll also want to ensure the ladder’s top doesn’t slide or shift when it’s leaning against the wall. Be sure to secure it to your roof.

2. Check the Weather Forecast

The weather is quite important while working on a steep roof. You want to make sure it’s clear so that the roof isn’t damaged and so that you can work uninterrupted. If a storm is approaching, stay off your roof. However, there are a couple more weather considerations to be aware of. Rain may be hazardous since it might cause you to slide if you and the roof get wet.

Snow and ice on your roof are especially dangerous, as they create a very slippery surface to work on and may come with extreme weather. The roof could also be compromised in this weather. If there are high winds or very cold temperatures, stay off your roof. If you have an emergency, contact a professional roofing contractor rather than risking your own safety.

It’s also a good idea to avoid working on your roof in extreme heat. Firstly, there’s a risk of dehydration, heat stroke, or other heat-related illnesses. Also, keep in mind that the materials used in roofing might be damaged during extreme heat.

3. Make Sure you Have the Right Tools Ready

You can avoid going on and off your roof more than necessary if you have all of the equipment and materials you’ll need available beforehand. Wear the right roof repair clothing, gather all of the necessary tools and materials, and tape off the area. By being well prepared, you will be able to eliminate the annoyance of having to climb on and off the roof several times, lowering the risk of an accident.

Taping off the area where you’ll be working and the ground below is a vital safety precaution that alerts passersby below that you’ll be working. Appropriate closed-toe shoes, long sleeves and pants, gloves, and a tool belt should be part of your work attire to help you keep track of your tools.

Aside from roof boots and safety equipment, you should also check that your repair supplies are in good condition. Your roof is subjected to a lot of normal wear and tear so ensure any repairs are of high quality. Buy only from well-known manufacturers with a track record of durability and quality. Check for warranties. Make certain the shingles you purchase match those you currently have on your roof. Mismatched colors on the roof can drastically depreciate the value of your property.

4. Use a Safety Harness or a Fall Arrest System

Fall arrest systems are designed to halt a fall after it has already begun. In order to utilize safety equipment correctly, make sure you know how to use them. A professional contractor spends significant time training employees. Don’t just assume you know how to use the equipment. It’s advised to try on the safety harness while standing on level ground before attempting to wear it while working on a roof. You may need to practice. Whether you’re working on a steep roof or one with a lesser pitch, safety harnesses and fall arrest systems are vital.

If you don’t have one or are uncomfortable with wearing the equipment, your best option is to call in a professional. Working on a steep roof—or any roof, for that matter—can be hazardous without following the appropriate safety protocols. A roofing contractor will have the proper equipment and experience to get the job done safely.

5. Never Work Alone

You should have an assistant or partner with you to help out and keep an eye on you in case something goes wrong. It’s critical to have a second set of eyes and hands there for safety and in case of an emergency.

This will also allow them to assist with any heavy lifting that is required in any roofing job. Not only will this make the person on the roof safer, but it will also be less demanding for them. It will also help them get the job done faster.

In this article, we’ve outlined a few tips that homeowners can use to be safe when working on their steep roofs. Working high off the ground on any rooftop is a dangerous job so it’s important you don’t take any unnecessary risks by working unsafely. If you live in the Portland, Oregon, area and would like assistance with your roofing project, contact the experts at Interstate Roofing.

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