When we have to work on a steep pitch where nailed-on footholds are impractical, such as metal or fiberglass roofs, we like to stand on a ladder that hangs from the ridge. The top rung of the ladder slips over a wooden T-shaped piece, as shown in the drawing. The T is made of two pieces of 2×12 joined with 16d nails and braced with 1/2-in. plywood gussets. The angle of the T should be adjusted to match the slope of the roof.
When we use this rig, we wire the second rung of the ladder to the T. This helps to keep everything parallel to the roof slope. We’ve found this arrangement to be very stable, and the ladder and its T can easily be moved along the ridge. For a no-scratch model for metal roofs, line the inside of the T and the rails of the ladder with glued-on carpet.
Jim Greenfield, Golden, CO
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #34
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Absolutely brilliant, Jim. I have made a wooden ladder that hooks the ridge before to use on steep metal roofs, but I love this idea. I knew you Mines guys in Golden were smart.
I just use the ladder standoff bracket and throw it over the peak. Just make sure you reverse the way it bolts to the ladder so it doesn’t pull off.
Or...just buy a ladder hook...not that expensive. if it's a sensitive roof cushion the hook end.
I've roofed my whole life and when needed used it