Ladder Safety Guide And Fundamentals: How To Safely Get On And Off Your Home’s Roof

Let’s face it, most of us have done it. A storm rolls through and afterwards, we want to check our roof for any signs of damage. In our hurry, we climb a ladder without much thought. And as a result, about 500,000 people each year end up in the emergency room due to ladder safety issues. To help prevent you from being one of the half-million visiting the ER, we’ve put together a ladder safety guide for getting on and off your roof. 

Take Time To Be Safe

Whether you are cleaning gutters or trimming branches, take the time to check the following safety fundamentals before using a ladder.

Is The Ladder Tall Enough?

Just as you need the right tool for the job, you need the right ladder. Ladders come in all shapes and sizes so picking the proper one for your project is key to a safe experience. The ladder should be tall enough so you do not need to stand on the topmost rung or top step (the top of an A-frame ladder is not a step). Extension ladders should extend at least four rungs above the work surface.

Is The Ladder Stable?

No matter the number of ladder legs (2 or 4), they should all be placed on an even, flat surface. Instability increases the chances of a fall as ladders are prone to tipping if the weight distribution is not even. Some ladders have adjustable legs or stabilizers are another way to reduce possible tipping.

When Was The Ladder Last Used?

If it’s been a while since the ladder was used, check its integrity. Are the rungs in good shape? Do the feet still have their coverings? Are there signs of rust or cracks in the ladder housing or on the steps? If so, then you may want to purchase a new ladder. Look at the instructions to determine if something is amiss.

Is The Ladder Free Of Debris?

Before using a ladder, remove any sticky residue from the steps and rails including dirt, mud, oil, or other substances that can make the steps slippery. Cleaning supplies should be used to remove any hazardous or corrosive materials.

Using An Extension Ladder

Accessing the roof typically requires the use of an extension ladder. Extension ladders have at least two sections for an adjustable height. They are not self-supporting and require a stable structure to lean against. The key to its safe use is the angle between the ladder and the stabilizing structure. If the ladder is too straight (vertical), it can fall backwards. If it is too far from the stable structure, it may slip outward.

A general rule suggests that for every four feet of height, move the ladder one foot from the stable structure. If you don’t want to measure, stand on the ground in front of the ladder after it’s in position. Extend your arms and if you need to stretch to reach the rung in front of you, the ladder is too far from the stable structure. If you don’t need to fully extend your arms to touch the rung, the ladder is too close to the supporting structure.

When using the ladder, the fourth rung from the top should rest on the roof’s edge. A ladder stabilizer is an accessory that prevents the ladder from resting on gutters that may be unstable. It also prevents damage to the gutters. Be sure the rung locks are engaged regardless of whether the extension is used.

Using An A-frame Ladder 

A-frame ladders are less stable than extension ladders and are not recommended for roof access. However, a podium or platform ladder may be tall enough to clean the lower gutters. Podium ladders have an enclosed platform, making it safer to work when stringing holiday lights or decorations.

While A-frame ladders are not designed for roof access, there are tons of other great uses for them around the home. Here are a few that we recommend:

• Interior painting: If you need to reach the highest part of the wall or indoor ceiling, then an A-frame ladder is your best bet
• Changing light bulbs: Reaching tall places within the home is where this ladder shines!
• Trimming shorter trees or shrubs around the yard
• Accessing your attic’s storage space: If your home doesn’t have a built-in attic ladder, then this is the one you reach for
• General cleaning of high spaces in or outside of the home: Cleaning walls, ceiling fans, or windows

Going Up And Down A Ladder Safely

The three-point rule applies to going up or down a ladder. The rule states that you should have three points of contact with a ladder. Two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot. Heavy items should not be carried up and down a ladder, as they can throw off an individual’s balance. Similarly, do not attempt to carry multiple items in one hand. You want to remain balanced at all times.

Before moving from an extension ladder to the roof, ensure there are at least four rungs above the roofline. To access the roof, extend one leg onto the roof while keeping two hands and the other foot on the ladder. Gradually, pull the other leg off the ladder and onto the roof. Then, remove your hands.

Use the reverse process to descend the ladder. Facing the structure, place each hand on a ladder rail. Apply pressure to ensure the ladder is stable. Move one leg onto the ladder, followed by the other, so you are facing the ladder rungs. Move down the steps of the ladder making sure you are keeping constant contact with your hands and footing. 

Parting Thoughts

We hope that today’s guide on ladder safety tips was helpful to you. Ladder accidents are definitely something we would like everyone to avoid, and with a little knowhow and some preparation on your part, the chances of them happening can be reduced significantly. As it is said, a little prevention goes a long way! We look forward to hearing about your own ladder safety best practices, so feel free to share below in the comments or shout it out on social media and tag us. Best of luck with everything around your home this year!