Is It Safe To Walk On Roof Tiles

Ideally you would only allow specially trained roofers to work on roofs covered in slate but for emergency repairs or the retrieval of the occasional frisbee it can t be avoided.

Is it safe to walk on roof tiles.

As you walk on the tiles be slow and careful when you take steps so you don t damage them. Ideally you should avoid walking on a tile roof if you can. Wait until you have nice weather before safely climbing onto your roof. When you walk on your roof make sure you are walking on the reinforced part the lower third of the visible tile.

Essentially with each step place the heel of your foot in the gap between tiles roll the arch over the tile and end up with your toe in the next gap. It means that for your personal safety and the safety of your roof it s best if you simply stay off your roof and only let a professional walk on it if absolutely necessary. That said if there s no other course of action you can take except to walk on your roof here are some top tips to help you do it safely. Best places to step most concrete tiles are lifted a little off of your roof and sit on wood batten strips creating a gap under the tiles for ventilation.

The risk of slipping is high and the risk of breaking tiles is even greater. Instead transfer your weight gradually as you walk and curve your step with the arc of the tile as it falls. Always make sure you ve evenly distributed your weight. Don t allow harness to give you a false sense of security it s a last resort only.

If this is impossible make sure to stay mindful be careful and work slowly. Slate roofing tiles are very delicate and can easily crack and dislodge under your weight. Image showing how concrete tiles are installed on a roof. It s hard to stay safe if you re walking on a tiled roof.

What does all of this mean. A normal walk is not generally the best approach upon a tile roof. Following the techniques above will not only save you money but can also save your life. As far as possible walk only on line of screws on metal roofs and on front of roof tiles where they are double thickness and suppor ted by a timber batten underneath.