How to Walk on Metal Tile Roof Panels
Some homeowners believe that walking on a metal roof can be dangerous to themselves and to their roof. This is wrong--most metal roofs are perfectly safe, and those that aren't are in poor, decrepit condition and can be easily identified. Walking on a roof may be necessary to clean the roof, remove snow or leaves and make minor repairs. Learn how to walk on your metal roof safely without harming the roof, then follow proper procedures each time you venture onto it. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Avoid walking on your metal roof if it's raining, snowing, hailing or if the roof is icy or covered with moss. Metal roofs can become quite slippery--and treacherous--in these conditions.
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Check with the manufacturer of your metal roof panels before you go up on the roof. The Metal Roofing website notes that each metal tile or metal panel manufacturer has detailed instructions for how to walk on a metal roof, based upon the design of your roof tiles and grade or pitch of your roof. Getting this information before you go out means you'll be as safe as possible when on the roof.
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Set up a ladder and climb up to your roof.
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Step onto the roof carefully. Look at the roof, searching for the seams of your roof panels. Walk carefully along the contours of your roof, avoiding the seams. If you step on a metal roof seam, you could break the seal.
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Place your flat board on the roof to stand safely on a roof seam without causing damage. The My Great Home site recommends walking on roof trusses, which are spaced 16 to 24 inches apart.
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Walk back to the ladder when you are finished on the roof. Hoist yourself onto the ladder and descend carefully.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid walking on metal roofs that are in poor condition, since they are not necessarily safe.
References
- Photo Credit abstract red metal tiled roof background and chimney image by Avesun from Fotolia.com
