How to Walk on a Barrel Tile Roof

If you have a barrel tile roof, it's vital that you know how to walk on the tiles. If there's ever an emergency or you need to check for damage, you can't just stroll around at will, or it will be a very expensive stroll once you replace all the tiles you break. Since the tiles are so delicate, hedge your bets and learn the best technique for walking.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Binoculars (optional)
• Length of 2"x4" (optional)

Instructions

1. Spread your weight out as much as possible. If you can safely attach a 2"x4" board to the roof, or butt one up against an angle or two (both techniques depend on the shape and angle of your roof), that's your best bet. Walking on the board spreads your weight across the barrel tiles the board sits on.

2. Think of the tiles as waves, with high points and low points. With each step, place your foot so it's on the top of two "waves", or high points, at once.

3. Step on two rows at once, toward the bottom of the tile where it overlaps the one below. This is where the tiles are attached, so you're spreading your weight over four tiles. The two attached on one "wave" and the two attached on the other.

4. Step very carefully and slowly transfer your weight from one foot to the other as you walk. Before you take a step, check to make sure there are no cracks or imperfections in the tiles you're about to walk on. If there are any imperfections, step in a different location.

5. Keep your weight evenly spread between your two feet when you stop to look examine a tile. Don't lean and put all your weight on one foot or the other.

Tips & Warnings

• Before walking on a barrel tile roof, try other options. If you're checking for damage, see if you can do it from the ground or the top of a ladder. If that doesn't give you a good enough view, try binoculars.

• Even walking on the roof properly doesn't guarantee that you won't break a tile, so only walk on a barrel tile roof if you absolutely have to.