How To Walk On A Tile Roof Without Breaking The Tiles

The proper way to walk and clean a ceramic tile concrete roof.

How to walk on a tile roof without breaking the tiles. Clay tile is almost impossible to walk without damaging breaking tiles unless you weigh less than 100 lbs however if you must walk the roof the best method is as in picture 1. In case the layer underneath the roof tiles is exposed you can walk on it to avoid stepping the tile. The proper way to walk and clean a ceramic tile concrete roof. These are the tiles which are located on your roof s peak.

Not only do you not want to break your roof tiles but you also do not want to put your safety at risk. A normal walk is not generally the best approach upon a tile roof. Instead transfer your weight gradually as you walk and curve your step with the arc of the tile as it falls. Apply pressure to the ball of your foot when you step on the tiles so you re less likely to damage them.

Try minimizing the pressure of your body by keeping your feet step on separated tiles. This way you re actually standing on 4 tiles with one foot. Keep your weight balanced and evenly divided between your both feet and stark to walk slowly. Image showing how concrete tiles are installed on a roof.

Walk on the balls of your feet to reduce the pressure on the tiles. Walk on between the tile sections on the uncovered valley area. Also you need to step where the tiles lap eachother toward the lower edge of the tile. It is suggested that you hire a licensed and bonded roofing contractor to do the job.

If you choose to perform the task yourself it is recommended to step at the bottom three inches of the installed tile when walking along your roof. You should also never step on the water channels of the tile where they overlap at the sides. Since the heels are usually the thickest part of your shoe they are more likely to break your tiles when you step on them. If it has recently rained or there is any dew on the roof you should avoid walking on the tile roof at all costs.

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. You should also avoid standing on any of the tiles in the valleys of the roof or on the rake of the roof. When you walk on your roof make sure you are walking on the reinforced part the lower third of the visible tile. 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.