As a roofer’s most used tool, ladders are essential for accessing a roof. Considering its straightforward utility and application, it’s easy to overlook some important things to consider to avoid serious injury and stay safe while using and transporting your own ladder.
Handling
- Just like with all your other tools, take care when moving your ladder. Don’t drag or drop it to avoid damaging the ladder. For long ladders, their weight and size can make them difficult to handle. If you are unsure if you can carry it on your own, get someone to help assist you or make use of a support tool such as a ladder dolly.
- While climbing up and down the ladder, always face it. Avoid stepping onto it backwards. This will maintain optimal weight distribution and balance while on the ladder.
- Keep three points of contact (two hands and a foot or one hand and two feet) on the ladder or another sturdy surface while you are on it.
Maintenance
- Before and after using your ladder, inspect it for cracks, loose rungs and worn or missing parts. Never use a damaged ladder. Something as seemingly minor as a missing or loose screw can compromise a ladder’s support.
- Remove dirt, grease and other dirty or slippery substances from rungs of the ladder.
- Store ladders in a dry, protected area. This can help prevent rust or warping.
Safety
- Choose the right ladder for the job. A step ladder can be useful for getting to hard-to-reach areas in your home while a 40’ ladder will be the best way to help reach areas on the outside of a 2-story home.
- Place the ladder on a firm level surface. When leaning it against a wall, use the 4:1 rule (the base of the ladder should be placed out one foot for every four feet it leans up against the wall).
- Make sure you know the weight limit of your ladder to avoid overloading it. And never allow more than one person on the ladder at a time.
- Be aware of and avoid power lines when transporting and using your ladder.
- Don’t overreach or lean on your ladder. If the spot is too hard to reach while maintaining three points of contact, step off and reposition the ladder.
To make the most of these best safe ladder practices and tips when safely using your ladder, check out some basic DIY roof maintenance you can do on your own at https://berrymanroof.com/diy-roof-maintenance/.
As we recommend avoiding walking on your roof unless necessary to address any possible roofing issues, allow Berryman Roofing’s experienced roofers and estimators to take the first steps towards the peace of mind knowing your home is in good hands. Call our offices at 361-994-0342, email us at support@berrymanroof.com, or follow this link to schedule a free estimate for any residential or commercial roofing and siding issues you may have. https://berrymanroof.com/estimate-request/