Ladder Safety Tips for Homeowners and Roofing Professionals
Ladder Safety Tips for Homeowners and Roofing Professionals By John Petrozzi
My name is John Petrozzi. I’m a licensed roofing contractor from the Buffalo NY area . My roofing company has been in business for 47 years and has installed over 20,000 roofs
When it comes to roof work, ladder safety is paramount. Over the years, I’ve seen far too many accidents that could have been avoided with the right precautions. Today, I’ll share some essential tips on choosing the right ladder, placing it safely, and using it correctly.
When it comes to roof work, ladder safety is paramount. Over the years, I’ve seen far too many accidents that could have been avoided with the right precautions. Today, I’ll share some essential tips on choosing the right ladder, placing it safely, and using it correctly.
Choosing the Right Ladder
Material Matters: Not all ladders are created equal, especially when working near electrical wires. Fiberglass and wooden ladders are safer options because they don’t conduct electricity. In contrast, aluminum ladders can put you at risk of electrocution if they come into contact with power lines. Always choose the right ladder for the job to keep yourself safe.
Extension Ladders: When using an extension ladder, remember that the ladder consists of two sections that overlap. The upper section provides double rungs where it overlaps with the lower section. As you climb down, you’ll transition from the double-rung area to a single-rung area near the bottom. This change can catch people off-guard and lead to slips or loss of footing. Be mindful of this shift and slow down as you near the bottom.
Safe Ladder Placement
Optimal Angle: Set your ladder at a safe angle, around 20 to 30 degrees. Too upright and it could tip backward; too shallow and it could slip out from under you. Also, ensure the ladder extends at least three feet above the roof edge for safe transitioning on and off.
Rake vs. Eaves: Whenever possible, place your ladder against the rake edge rather than near the eaves. This can help you avoid damaging gutters and provide a more stable, less obstructed climb—particularly if you’re not a seasoned professional.
However, if you must place the ladder against the gutter, here’s how to do it safely:
Choose Your Spot Carefully: Position the ladder so that one of the rails lines up directly next to a gutter spike (the fastener holding the gutter to the fascia). This gives you a more secure structural point.
Secure the Ladder: Use a wire or rope to tie the ladder rail directly to the gutter spike or bracket. This helps prevent side-to-side movement or tipping.
Distribute the Weight: Place a 1×6 board, wider than the ladder base, flat across the gutter where the ladder will rest. This spreads the pressure across a larger surface area, reducing the risk of denting or collapsing the gutter.
Using this method can make climbing safer when no rake edge is available. But remember, if you’re unsure—always call a pro.
Level Ground Safety:
Compared to shimming up a low side of the ladder, a better option is to dig down the high side to create a level surface. Today, there are adjustable leg-leveling devices that attach to the ladder for safe, even footing without shimming or digging. But if you don’t have one of those and you’re on uneven ground, always choose to dig down rather than shim up.
Foot Orientation: There’s another small move that makes a big difference—how you orient the ladder feet. Most extension ladders have feet that can flip: one side for smooth surfaces, and the other side with teeth that grip into dirt or grass. Make sure you’ve set them correctly for the ground you’re working on.
Using the Ladder Correctly
There’s some debate over whether it’s safer to hold the rungs or the rails (also known as strings) when climbing. Rungs may offer a better grip in case of a slip, but many—including myself—prefer the rails, especially when both hands need to stay in contact for balance.
There’s some debate over whether it’s safer to hold the rungs or the rails (also known as strings) when climbing. Rungs may offer a better grip in case of a slip, but many—including myself—prefer the rails, especially when both hands need to stay in contact for balance.
Working solo, I sometimes carry tools like a bucket or saw. OSHA says that’s a safety violation, and I agree—but when I do it, I keep one hand on the rail. It’s safer for me than fumbling for a rung mid-climb.
Ultimately, follow your job site’s rules, and more importantly, use common sense. Whether you’re a rung holder or a rail holder, stay focused and deliberate.
Three Points of Contact: Always maintain three points of contact—two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand—while climbing. This simple rule can prevent most ladder-related accidents.
Beware the Bottom Rungs: As you descend, pay special attention to the transition from the double-rung section to the single-rung section. This change can throw off your rhythm and balance, so slow down and stay alert.
Mounting and Dismounting the Roof
One of the most critical moments in ladder safety is the transition from the ladder to the roof and back. This step can feel the most precarious, but following these tips can keep you safe:
Ensure Proper Ladder Extension: Make sure the ladder extends at least three feet above the roofline. This gives you something to hold onto as you transition on and off the roof.
Maintain Three Points of Contact: Keep three points of contact while making the transition. Move slowly and deliberately to maintain your balance.
Best Footing Position: Never step on the rung above the roofline onto the ladder. The safest place to position your footing is on the center of the rung just below the roofline. This ensures stability and prevents the ladder from tipping or shifting.
Shift Your Center of Gravity: When stepping onto the roof, shift your center of gravity carefully from the ladder to the roof surface. Place one foot securely on the roof while keeping a firm grip on the ladder, and only then shift your weight.
Stay Focused: Avoid distractions while making the transition. Pay attention to your footing and hand placement to prevent slips.
Dismounting the Roof: When getting back onto the ladder from the roof, reverse the process. Hold the ladder firmly, ensure your footing on the rung just below the roofline, and shift your center of gravity back onto the ladder before climbing down.
Final Thoughts
Ladders are indispensable tools, but they’re also among the most dangerous if not used properly. Whether you’re a homeowner or a professional, taking the time to choose the right ladder, set it up safely, and use it correctly can make all the difference. Stay safe and keep climbing smart!