Is It Okay to Walk on Your Roof?
Walking on your roof is a classic case of “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” Whether you are walking on your roof to inspect a leak or hang Christmas decorations, you face safety and insurance risks that are too significant to chance.
Is It Safe to Walk on Your Roof?
Walking on your roof is hazardous. One wrong step can lead to serious injuries, even when walking on the roof of a single-story home. A loose shingle or moisture can be challenging to spot, resulting in slipping and falling. It is best to hire a professional roofing contractor whenever your roof needs to be tended to, as they have the training to navigate the roof safely
Can Walking on Your Roof Void Your Insurance?
If you have homeowners’ insurance, you should refrain from walking on your roof. Walking on your roof may void your policy, as the potential damage incurred can be considered intentional. The most effective way to ensure your claims are honored is to hire a licensed and insured professional when you need your roof inspected.
The Risks Associated With Walking on Your Roof
Walking on your roof is a threat to your homeowner’s insurance and safety and can also compromise the integrity of your roof. A quality roof is built to be durable and resilient, but should not be mistaken for a secure area to roam without the proper training or equipment.
Roofing Material Damage
Roofing materials are strong enough to withstand harsh weather conditions, but not all are equipped to handle impact damage. Several roofing materials, such as terracotta or clay tiles, are prone to splitting or cracking when impacted. If you damage your roof while walking on it, it loses its ability to protect your home and can become a costly repair.
Decking and Hardware Damage
An aging roof may have damaged or weak spots hidden throughout the decking. An experienced professional can securely identify these areas, but if you stumble upon an impaired area, the roof may collapse and cause you to sustain serious injuries. Walking on a decaying roof may also lead to misalignment and issues, such as cracks and leaks that invite water to penetrate your roof.
How to Access Your Roof Safely
There are ways to access your roof without walking directly on it. Using a ladder and having someone help you keep it sturdy at the bottom when hanging Christmas lights or cleaning your gutters is recommended. Extendable gutter cleaners and other specialized tools may also be helpful when reaching your roof safely.
Personal Safety
It is imperative to prioritize your personal safety above all else. The possibility of falling while walking on your roof is high, especially on homes with sloped roofs, two-story homes, or during wet weather conditions. Eliminate the prospect of life-changing injuries by hiring certified roofing experts such as ANC Roofing to inspect, repair, or maintain your roof.
Choose ANC Roofing for the Best Roofing Services
It is inevitable that your roof will need to be inspected or repaired during your time as a homeowner. When that time comes, ANC Roofing is here for you. Our licensed and insured roofing specialists can access your roof safely and efficiently without harming your roof or risking anyone’s safety. Contact our friendly team today for all your roofing needs.