It’s tempting for homeowners to tackle roof or gutter repairs themselves. DIY projects can seem like a great way to save time and money—but is it worth the risk? Roof and gutter work often require expertise, tools, and safety measures that most homeowners lack. At Pickard Roofing, we’ve witnessed the hazards of improper repairs firsthand. Before climbing a ladder, here’s what you need to know.
Ladders: A Leading Cause of Injuries and Fatalities
Did you know that ladders are one of the most common causes of home repair injuries? According to the CDC, 500,000 ladder injuries occur every year; 300 of these injuries are fatal.
Astonishingly, 97% of the falls occurred in non-occupational settings, on homes and farms.
The demographic most at risk? Older male homeowners. The annual cost of ladder injuries is $25 billion.
100% of Ladder Falls Are Preventable
How do ladder accidents happen? See for yourself where the greatest hazards are:
Selecting the wrong type of ladder
Each ladder is designed for a specific weight and task. If you’re a homeowner working with a ladder that’s too short, designed for a different job, or just not up to holding your weight, then you could be setting yourself up for an accident. When you hire a roofing professional, you can rest assured that the ladders they choose will be appropriate for the task at hand.
Using worn or damaged ladders
Ladders, like most tools, have a lifespan. Old, poorly maintained, or structurally compromised ladders are accidents waiting to happen.
Incorrect use of ladders
Many homeowners are unaware of the safest ways to use ladders. It’s essential always to maintain 3 points of contact with your ladder: two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot (while climbing). For more tips on how to use a ladder properly, see this video.
Incorrect placement of ladders
When you place a ladder on the ground, the ground should be level and firm. Always have a helper to steady the ladder.
The easiest way to avoid these risks? Skip the ladder entirely. Hiring a professional roofer or gutter specialist ensures the work is done safely and efficiently.
Why Should You Hire Professionals for Roof and Gutter Repair?
Beyond safety, there are numerous benefits to hiring experts for your roofing and gutter needs:
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Quality Assurance
Professional contractors are trained to complete repairs correctly, ensuring lasting results and avoiding further damage. -
Specialized Tools and Equipment
Roofing professionals come equipped with the necessary tools and safety gear, saving you from costly purchases. -
Efficiency and Peace of Mind
With the experts handling the work, you can relax knowing the job will be completed quickly and effectively. -
Long-Term Cost Savings
While DIY might appear cheaper upfront, mistakes can lead to expensive fixes. Professionals also eliminate the need for purchasing ladders, harnesses, or other tools.
Roof Repair for Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill
Looking for safe and reliable roof or gutter repair? At Pickard Roofing, we bring over 90 years of experience to every project. Our team is fully insured, expertly trained, and equipped with the latest safety gear to protect you, your property, and our workers.
From metal roofing to historical renovations, we’ve handled countless projects across the Triangle. Our services include:
- Residential and commercial roofing
- Custom architectural metal fabrication
- Historical renovations
- Gutter repair and replacement
When you hire Pickard Roofing, you’re choosing quality, safety, and peace of mind. Call Pickard Roofing today to make an appointment for roof or gutter repair. Make an appointment for a consultation to discuss your upcoming job, and trust us to handle your roof or gutter repair needs with professionalism and care.
At Pickard Roofing, we think Design. Craft. Renew. We are experienced in all types of roofing systems- and provide the right roofing design and selective craftsmanship for renewing our customer’s assets. We invite sustainable building customers to give us a call for your free evaluation. For over 90 years Pickard Roofing Company has installed countless metal, tile, slate, TPO, EPDM, and all types of shingle roofing in the Triangle. Our services include residential, commercial, custom architectural metal fabrication, and historical renovation.