"calhoun" wrote in message
...

wrote in message
oups.com...
After completing my addition, I now find that the only way to get on my
roof is to go purchase a 32' extension ladder (maybe). I may need to
go even more, but the fact that I ONLY need it to clean out a set of
gutters.

The fact that I have no trees around my house means that some other
objects usually are blocking the gutters. I have found tennis balls,
tennis shoes, newspapers, drink cans... did I mention I have children?


Anyway, considering the cost of a ladder that I am only going to use
twice a year at most, I have no reason to buy a 40' ladder. On the
other hand, it is a major PITA to go to "insert rental place here" to
get a ladder.

Has anyone just gone and installed an access hatch to the roof? I know
it means a hole in the roof, but properly installed, I cannot believe
it to be any worse than a power vent or skylight.

Comments?

Have you ever worked at the edge of a roof? Not many people like to be
leaning over the edge of a roof. I install shingles and don't like to be
right on the edge. Also not good to walk on roof. It shortens the life of
the shingles.
Buy the ladder you will need it for other things like cleaning the siding,
gable vents, etc.



Yeah, if you need a 32 footer to access it, hanging over the edge is a
little harrowing. And it's going to get moreso as you get older. Look into
some gutter covers - questionable value for keeping out leaves, but should
work just dandy to shed tennis balls and shoes.