Roofing ladders are a good choice for roofing repairs.

Of all the home improvements that you might do yourself, roofing repair ranks as one of the most dangerous. Understanding the proper safety precautions and taking the time to follow them properly will help ensure your safety while you’re up on the roof. If you are having second thoughts about DIY roof repair, don’t hesitate to call a local roofing contractor to help you out.

1. Assemble all necessary tools, supplies, and equipment before you start.

2. Use a tool belt or load up your supplies into a bucket to keep your hands freer.

3. Wear a safety harness and secure a rope to it. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

4. Wear non-slip shoes to help prevent a nasty fall. And never work on a wet roof. This is especially important when considering working on a wood-shingled roof, which can be especially slippery.

5. Safety glasses and gloves are essential. Flying debris and sharp material can hurt you, so make sure you take the time to put them on.

6. Consider bringing up a furniture pad or other cushion material to protect your knees during your time working up on the roof.

7. Position your ladder properly. If you'll be using an extension ladder, the bottom of the ladder should be positioned one-fourth the distance from the ground to the edge of the roof. The top of the ladder should extend several feet above the roof edge. If you'll be using a roof ladder, hook it over the edge of the roof and use a rope to secure the top of the ladder to a solid anchor point such as a tree or deck railing on the opposite side of the house.

8. Have a "spotter" at ground level to keep an eye on you. If this is not possible, at least let someone in the house know that you will be working on the roof.

Updated August 22, 2018.