Whether you’re cleaning out gutters, checking for damage after a storm, or hanging Christmas lights, the question comes up often: Is it safe to walk on your roof? The short answer? Sometimes—but with serious precautions. Walking on a roof can be dangerous for both you and your home if not done properly.
Before you grab a ladder, here’s what Alberta homeowners need to know about when it’s safe to walk on a roof, what risks to consider, and which roofing types are more walkable than others.
🧱 1. What Type of Roof Do You Have?
Different roofing materials have different levels of walkability:
- Asphalt Shingles: Generally safe if the pitch isn’t too steep, but avoid walking on them during extreme heat or cold as they can become soft or brittle.
- Metal Roofs: Slippery when wet or snowy—use extreme caution or avoid entirely.
- Tile or Slate Roofs: Not safe to walk on without proper training. Tiles can crack or dislodge easily.
- Flat Roofs (SBS, TPO, EPDM): These are the safest to walk on but still require care to avoid damaging seams or membranes.
Tip: Always wear soft-soled shoes and walk gently to avoid dislodging or puncturing materials.
🏔️ 2. Roof Slope and Height Matter
Steep or high roofs dramatically increase fall risk. A roof with a pitch steeper than 6/12 (about 26.5 degrees) is generally unsafe for the average homeowner to access without fall protection.
Unsafe conditions include:
- Wet, icy, or snowy surfaces
- Loose shingles or debris
- Poorly secured ladders
- Inadequate footwear or safety gear
Solution: Hire a professional for inspections or repairs if your roof has any of these hazards.
⚠️ 3. Dangers of Walking on a Roof
Walking on your roof presents two major risks:
A. Personal Injury
Falls are the leading cause of serious injury or death in residential maintenance. Even a single misstep on a dry, seemingly safe roof can result in:
- Broken bones
- Head trauma
- Long-term disability
B. Roof Damage
Walking in the wrong spot can cause:
- Cracked shingles or broken tiles
- Crushed ridge vents or flashings
- Punctured membranes on flat roofs
- Voided warranties, especially with newer roofing systems
🛠️ 4. When It Might Be Okay to Walk on Your Roof
There are situations where it may be reasonable—with caution:
- Inspecting after a minor hailstorm
- Clearing small debris
- Taking measurements for a quote
- Accessing solar panels (if designed for walkability)
Still, always:
- Use a safety harness if possible
- Keep your weight distributed
- Avoid going near edges or skylights
🧰 5. Safe Alternatives to Roof Access
Instead of walking on your roof, consider:
- Drone inspections for visual damage checks
- Telescoping poles with cameras
- Hiring a professional roofing contractor for thorough and safe evaluations
Final Thoughts
So—is it safe to walk on your roof? Only under the right conditions, with the right material, and the right equipment. Even then, the safest option is often to leave it to professionals. One misstep can cost far more than a service call.
When in doubt, get a qualified Alberta roofer to inspect your roof safely—and avoid turning a simple checkup into a serious accident or a costly repair.