Homeowners often have a natural inclination to take matters into their own hands when it comes to repairing their roofs or gutters.
The prospect of saving both time and money to repair your own roof or gutters can be appealing, but is it truly a wise choice? The reality is that roof or gutter repair tasks can pose significant risks, especially for individuals lacking experience and proper training in the field.
Professional roofing contractors invest considerable time and effort in training their personnel on safe procedures for roof work, including the correct utilization of safety harnesses. Unfortunately, many homeowners often find themselves lacking the necessary expertise and tools to carry out such repairs safely.
We’ve witnessed firsthand the perils associated with working on ladders and strongly urge you to reconsider before attempting these tasks independently. Here’s a detailed overview of what you should be aware of.
Ladder usage is a common source of falls that can result in severe injuries or even fatalities.
Shockingly, ladder-related accidents are quite prevalent, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting an annual occurrence of 500,000 ladder injuries, among which 300 are fatal. An astonishing 97% of these incidents transpire in non-occupational settings, predominantly on residential properties and farms.
Notably, individuals at a higher risk of ladder accidents are typically older males who are also homeowners. The financial toll of ladder injuries amounts to a staggering $25 billion annually.
The encouraging fact is that all ladder falls are entirely avoidable. Understanding how ladder accidents occur is instrumental in preventing them.
Here’s an in-depth look at the primary hazards.
Incorrect ladder usage
Many homeowners lack knowledge about the safest practices for using ladders. Maintaining three points of contact with the ladder at all times, either with two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot while ascending or descending, is crucial. Additional guidance on proper ladder usage can be found in this informative video.
Incorrect ladder placement
When positioning a ladder on the ground, it should rest on a level and stable surface. Having a helper present is always advisable to ensure safe ladder placement.
Inappropriate ladder type
Ladders are meticulously designed for specific tasks and weight capacities. If you’re a homeowner attempting to use a ladder that is too short, designed for a different purpose, or not suitable for your weight, you significantly increase the risk of an accident. When enlisting the services of a roofing professional, you can have peace of mind knowing that they will select the right ladder for the job.
Worn or damaged ladders
It’s essential to acknowledge that all ladders have a finite lifespan. Damaged ladders are exceedingly hazardous, and using an old, poorly maintained, or structurally compromised ladder can put your safety in jeopardy.
The surefire way to prevent ladder-related injuries is to avoid using ladders altogether for roof or gutter repairs. Instead, you have the option of engaging a reputable roofing professional who possesses the necessary expertise and equipment to perform these tasks safely.
Opting to clean gutters or replace missing shingles may sound like simple tasks. Large or small, Muth & Company’s experts never advise inexperienced individuals to attempt repairs on their roof or gutters on their own.
Call professionals who can help you with roof repair in Columbus, Ohio, so you can avoid the following risks
- Potential for accidents. Even in good weather, climbing up on a roof is dangerous without the proper safety equipment. The professionals at Muth & Company Roofing have been doing this work for more than 30 years. We have the necessary equipment to handle every job safely.
- Incorrect installation. Without the proper expertise and training, trying to fix a roof or gutters on your own may worsen the damage. Remember that a roof is a system. Without a proper understanding of how this system works, you might aggravate the problem, resulting in more costly repairs.
- Voided warranties. This is one of the most overlooked dangers of trying to fix a roof on your own. If you incorrectly repair or install a product, that work will void most warranties. By hiring a professional for Columbus roof repair, you are making sure that your warranty can remain in effect.
So don’t attempt to do gutter and roof repair yourself to avoid extra expenses. Muth & Company Roofing offers affordable, safe, and hassle-free roofing services. With deep experience and certified training, our crew can handle any problem with the utmost professionalism and accuracy. Call us today at (614) 682-3060.