Roof maintenance goes a long way in extending your roof’s lifespan and preventing expensive repairs; however, without adequate safety precautions, roof work can be very dangerous–especially if you lack professional experience.

Roof work includes and is not limited to:

• Washing your roof;
• Inspecting your roof seasonally for damages;
• Patching your roof;
• Replacing parts of your roof (if you’re a DIYer).

All these jobs can work to increase the value and functionality of your home, so here are safety precautions to have in place prior to beginning any roofing project.

Safety Precautions

Ladder Use: When using a ladder to gain access to your roof, ensure that it is sturdy and extends approximately 3ft over the roof edge. Also, the ladder should be firmly placed on even ground to avert tipping or slipping.

Choose Ideal Weather Conditions: Weather is a significant factor to consider when working on a roof. A wet roof increases the chances of slipping. Wind can be another weather concern if it becomes strong enough to cause you to lose balance.

Wear Appropriate Work Clothing: Footwear with a rubber sole is the ideal choice. This provides better traction and reduces the chances of falling or slipping.

Safety Harness and Roof Brackets: Do everything you can to stay safe! A roof safety harness keeps you attached to the roof. So, even if you took a tumble you wouldn’t go crashing to the ground. Roof bracketsare dual-purposed, too. Not only can they be used to keep your tools from falling off the roof if you lose your balance, roof brackets can also stop you from falling off the roof.

At the end of the day, it’s important to always put your safety first. No roofing project is worth jeopardizing your health. If you feel a task is goes beyond your skill-base, seek the help of professionals!