Recently I had to replace the roof on my house. I opted to go “green” by switching from asphalt shingles to metal. Metal roofing has many advantages including being fireproof, resistant to wind damage, and energy efficient. One disadvantage is, it’s trickier to walk on a sloped metal roof. Even the contractor, who installs any type of roof his customers want, warned me about this. Metal roofing is low maintenance. Still, to clean the gutters and my satellite dish, for example, I’ll need to climb up there and walk on the roof from time to time.
1. Beware of the Elements
If it’s raining or snowing, or it has recently done so, you shouldn’t attempt to walk on a metal roof. If the roof is wet, snowy or icy, the surface is going to be ultra slippery. As a result, you won’t be able to get any traction. Keep in mind too, that very hot summer days will heat up a metal roof.
2. Best Type of Footwear
Before you walk on a dry metal roof, put on a pair of soft-soled, or rubber-soled shoes. Not only will the soles provide your feet with traction, but they’ll protect the roof as well so it doesn’t dent.
3. Where Should You Walk?
Walk on the flat panels of a metal roof. They should be supported by a roof deck below so they won’t experience damage. Don’t walk on the seams or any raised parts. This can harm them and create water leaks in the roof.
4. Steep Metal Roof Warning
Generally, metal roofs are manufactured to be walked on when needed without causing damage. However, if the roof has a pitch that is more than 7/12, you should stay off of it. The 7 means the roof rises 7 inches for every 12 inches it runs. The higher the pitch, the steeper the roof is.
Remember…
As with any type of roof, always use caution when you climb up and walk on it. A sloped metal roof rarely needs cleaned because leaves, snow and other debris just slide right off. Its slippery characteristic also makes it harder to walk on.
Resources
http://www.taylormetal.com/home_page/faq.html
http://www.custombiltmetals.com/homeowner-faq.php