It is okay to walk on your roof. However, this is not recommended. Although you may be able repair a leak or hang Christmas lights by simply walking on your roof, there are significant safety and insurance risk involved.
Is it safe to walk on your roof?
It is unsafe to walk on your roof incorrectly and could result in serious injuries. Even a small defect such as a missing nail or loose shingle can cause you to slip on your roof and cause serious injuries.
You may also fall and damage your roof, or spot other problems that should be addressed by a professional.
Professional roofers will know when the conditions are safe and they will tell you not to walk on your roof. It is not recommended that you stand on your roof. You could damage your roof, or slip and fall if there is an external problem.
There could also be serious physical dangers if you don’t know how to recognize safety concerns when standing on roofs. If your weight is unevenly distributed on the roof, it can become very slippery after it rains.
Is it possible to damage your roof by walking on it?
As we have already mentioned, standing on or walking on your roof can cause damage. If the shingles become damaged, they can buckle under your weight and cause safety hazards such as slippage. To avoid further injuries, it is best to have the shingles replaced.
You could also damage the roof by walking on it. You could also cause damage to gutters, downspouts and nails that are not designed to support weight.
Can you walk on your roof and cancel your insurance?
Walking on the roof of a homeowner’s insurance policy could cause it to be voided. If you cause physical damage, such as a leak or broken roof shingle from faulty installation, or even stepping on one, this could be considered intentional and your homeowner’s policy may be voided.
Insurance companies might not cover any claims you may have for your roof if you’ve walked on it yourself.
What can you do instead of walking on your roof?
A professional is the best thing to do if you have to go on your roof. They will inspect your roof for damage and any other safety concerns, as well as assist with the installation or repair of your roof if necessary.
After attempting to do some of these things themselves, many homeowners hire professionals to help them.
A ladder is better than walking on the roof to clean gutters or hang Christmas lights. Extendable gutter cleaners and tools that help you hang Christmas lights safely are also available.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing, one of the best roofing companies in Saint Petersburg, FL! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties. Click here for more information!
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