Can an extension ladder (not step ladder) be safely used for someone to clear a roof of pine cones & branches?
Question:I am concerned that if I prop an extension ladder against the side of a house, that it might fall sideways (with me on it). Any suggestions? Thanks.
Answers:
This is the way that you are supposed to go on a roof. Extension ladders are made for this purpose. They are designed to lean against the house. If it is on a level surface, there is no chance it will fall. Actually, using a step ladder would be more dangerous. Step ladders are not designed for leaning against houses. They are designed to be set up in the middle of a floor to get to a ceiling or something like that.
Place the ladder on firm level ground. The rungs should be at arms length at your shoulders. Secure the ladder to the gutter with a bungee cord. Reach no more to the side than your arm will reach without leaning, that is, do not lean over to get something. Loosen the ladder, go down and reposition the ladder. It's a hassle, but it is less painful than falling off the ladder.
Firefighters use them every day. If you are concerned about tipping, have someone "foot" the ladder for you. They can stabilize from the bottom. Just don't try and over-reach from the top, move the ladder as often as needed.
i know the feeling
if you are not confortable on the ladder it becomes more dangerous
what about a hose
make a sweeper from pvc pipe
6" pipe --elbow---6"pipe --elbow --joint of pipe( 10 ' or 2 --10')--hose adapter---stay on ground and clean roof
clear as mud??
use a long rope and tie it to one of the ladder rungs find a place on the other side off roof to tie it to you might have to throw the rope to other side of roof.
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