Your roof is not only an essential part of your home’s infrastructure but also a potential hazard. There are certain safety tips that professional roofers recommend following to ensure the safety of everyone on or near your roof. Here are some of the top ten safety tips that our roofers suggest and follow.

1. Wear Protective Gear

The most important safety tip from professional roofers is to always wear protective gear, such as long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy work boots with good grip, and a hard hat. This is especially important when working on a residential roof, as the average size of such roofs in the US, according to Roofing Calculator, is 1,700 square feet or 17 squares. Make sure to also wear protective eyewear and gloves to further protect yourself.

2. Clear the Area

Before attempting any roofing work, we always clear the area of any debris or other materials that can be hazardous. This includes anything that might cause an injury, such as broken glass and nails. It is also important to clear the area of any loose shingles or tiles, as these can be extremely slippery when stepped on.

3. Secure Ladders

When using ladders for roof work, we make sure to secure them properly. This includes tying them off at the top and bottom and checking that they’re stable and secure before you climb. Ladders can easily become unstable, particularly on uneven surfaces, so it’s important to take extra care when using them.

4. Inspect the Roof

Before starting any roof work, we inspect the roof for any signs of damage or wear. We look out for missing shingles, rotten wood, broken tiles, or other defects that could make the roof unsafe to work on. A professional will never skip this step. Plus, it can save time and money in the long run.

5. Use Guard Rails or Harnesses

If your roof is particularly steep or high, it’s wise to install guard rails and/or use safety harnesses when working. It’ll provide additional protection against a potential slip or fall and is especially important if the roof is made of slippery material such as metal or asphalt shingles.

6. Always Follow Manufacturer Instructions

When using ladders, scaffolding, or any other equipment on a roof, we always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. The scaffolding manufacturer might specify a certain weight limit for the structure. This safeguard will help avoid any accidents and ensure that the equipment is being used safely.

7. Avoid Working Alone

Our experts never attempt roofing work alone. It’s crucial to always have at least one other person with you. It’ll help prevent any potential accidents, as well as provide an extra set of eyes to look out for any safety hazards. That’s why you always see professional roofers working in pairs.

8. Avoid Working in Bad Weather

No matter the experience, it’s important to avoid roofing in bad weather. Rain and wind can make the job more difficult and dangerous. It’s often best to leave roofing work until the conditions are more favorable. Don’t be alarmed if your local roofer suddenly stops to check the forecast!

9. Don’t Overreach

Don’t overreach to reach something on a roof. If the object is too far away, our professionals an extension ladder to get it safely. Overreaching can easily lead to a fall from the roof, so use caution and common sense. A roof fall can result in serious injury or even death.

10. Take Regular Breaks

Finally, roofing is a physically demanding job, so our team always takes regular breaks. This relief time helps us stay alert and reduce the chances of an accident. After all, professional roofers know that safety is always paramount.

Following these top 10 safety tips from professional roofers can help ensure a safe and successful job each time. From wearing the right protective gear to taking regular breaks, these steps are crucial for anyone doing roofing work. These safety tips are another reason why you should always hire professional roofers. Your local roofer understands the importance of following these guidelines so you can trust them to do a great job. Save the DIY project for something less risky. Got a leak, missing shingles, or other repair needs? Call our local roofing professionals at Billings Remodeling today.