I need to access a 1 story roof via an extension ladder. I don’t have a problem with heights but don’t like having to step around to get off and on the ladder. I see there are commercial handrail extensions that allow you to walk through them. One is the Guardian 10800 Safe T Ladder Fall Protection.
I figure I could add my own wooden walk-through rails to my ladder.
I have a Harbor Freight (little Giant knockoff) 300 lb ladder. I plan on using Douglas Fir 2 x 4’s. I will attach them to the flared legs with 2 feet of contact and use 3/8″ U bolts (2 on each leg). The rails will extend 3 feet above the roof line.
What’s wrong with my plan? Good idea? Bad idea?
Thank You
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I would not want to trust my life to a cobbled-on extension to a ladder. (this also goes for the Guardian, in my opinion)
You might want to consider getting a real extension ladder, and get comfortable using it correctly.
We don't want to read a follow-on post about your fall recovery.
"What’s wrong with my plan? Good idea? Bad idea?"
Bad Idea
extensions on the ladder rails won't make the ladder any more stable and to my thinking, makes it more likely the ladder will "disappear" on you- you step through and push on the extensions, the ladder will go backwards and away from the roof, you're stranded.
ladder should be able to extend 2 -3 rungs above the roof. Stepping off the ladder allows you to hold the ladder in place until you are stable on the roof.
if you're concerned about getting on the roof, get a roof ladder to "create" a landing area on the roof.
other thought is get a ladder stand off, attach it to the ladder and then place it on the roof. The ends of the standoff will stablize the ladder on the roof and you should be able to climb up and onto the roof.
what kind of work are you doing on the roof? know what the work is makes it easier to make a plan of attach for repairs
just some thoughts
good luck
Thank You. The garage abutts the side of the house that gets the most weather wear (sun , wind, stormy weather). The clapboards above the garage take a beating compared to the other sides of the house. I just need to do more frequent maintenance e.g. patching, staining, re-nailing the cupped clapboards.
I see from your profile that you were a firefighter and I really appreciate your expertise, advice, and safety concerns concerning ladder use.
actually sounds like you need to consider siding at that area, maybe using James Hardie product or Boral product
good luck
You read my mind. I have the house painted (stained) every 5 or 6 years. Clapboards are red cedar. My painter is currently repainting. I've used him twice before, going back 11 years. I asked him his thoughts on residing that area and he agrees with your recommendation. The claps aren't terrible, no rot, but are starting to get dry in spots and cup a bit. When it starts looking 'tired' again I'll contact some siding companies.