Do-it-yourself projects can be fun, build confidence, and instill a sense of pride for a homeowner and let's face it, it's sometimes more cost efficient. When it comes to roofing projects the do-it-yourself property owner needs to be aware of some of the more common hazards associated with getting up on the roof and making repairs.
First and most obvious is the danger of falling. Falls can happen from the ladder, off the top of the roof, or through the roof into the interior of the building. Either way these accidents often end up with the person being seriously injured. According to the Occupation Safety and Health Administration, falls are among the top causes of serious injuries to construction and roofing workers. To help lessen the likelihood of fall the do-it-yourself property owner should take the following basic steps:
Ensure the ladder used to gain access to the roof is in good working order. Safeties and locking mechanisms should be tested and the ladder inspected for any type of structural damage.
Do not go onto the roof when it is wet. Even the best set of work boots is not enough to protect you from the slippery spots.
Make sure the roof can support your weight. Most roofs can withstand you walking on them but if you're attempting to access a roof that is compromised by damage, rot, or age the odds of falling through are greatly increased.
Second, be cautious about moving the materials necessary to effect repairs up to or down from the roof. The pros have equipment and devices they use to move heavier or unbalanced loads from the ground up to the roof and vice versa. The do-it-yourself worker in all likelihood will not have these items thereby making the job potentially more difficult and dangerous. Best practice is to first assess the roof and determine what needs to be done. Once you've made a mental list of the supplies needed then you will need to gage the difficulty of getting those supplies up to the roof. As stated before heavy or unbalanced loads require special equipment. It's not worth risking your safety or even your life to try and save a few dollars on repairs.
Do-it-yourself projects can be very rewarding and at times cost effective providing that they are done with safety being the number one rule.