Your roof is a very important part of your home, protecting you and your family from the elements. Damage in the roof can become a very inconvenient and expensive problem. That’s why it’s a good idea to inspect your roof on a regular basis, finding small problems before they become big ones. However, being up so high has its share of safety concerns, which is why its important to follow these roof inspection safety tips.

Plan Carefully: Know exactly what must be done ahead of time so you are making the minimum amount of movements once you are on the roof. Each movement can be risky, so it is best to do so as little as possible. When you do move, proceed slowly and carefully to avoid trips and falls. Also, make sure you have all necessary tools on hand, avoiding a second, and possibly dangerous trip, up and down.

Use a Safety Harness: Using a safety harness or belt with a lifeline attached could be a great way to avoid serious injuries. It is a good idea to attach belts or harnesses to a strong structure like the base of a chimney.

Practice Ladder Safety: Before climbing the ladder, make sure it is set carefully on the ground. Stabilize it by anchoring it at the bottom as well as on the roof. Climb slowly and carefully.

Check the Weather: Try to do roof inspections on a clear, dry day. Wet conditions can make the roof slippery increasing chances of injury.

While you are on your roof, check for things like misshapen shingles that need to be replaced, grit in the gutters, worn flashing and moss or lichen that may be a sign of moisture accumulation. If you feel like you are unable to correctly identify any problems, or that your safety may be compromised in any way during your roof inspection, you may opt to call in a professional. Either way, your roof is a very important part of your home and it should not be neglected. Make sure to keep up with your roof inspections on a regular basis to keep your house in great condition.