The problem is not getting on the roof its getting off. Exiting onto a ladder from the edge of a roof is hazardous and thus paralyzing. The family worried about me after several incidents. So, I built a ladder system that allows me to walk on and off the roof with little risk. The ladder is from a bunkbed I assume. I got it somewhere free and left it in the mud for several years. Fishing it out I let the wood dry out inside where it’s warm. After about three weeks the wood still appeared to be embedded with water. Regardless, I brought it out to the shop and stained it.

Under the eaves at the rear of the house is a wooden box, part of the rear deck. I propped the ladder up here where it’s closest to the roof and the fall is shortest. At the base of the ladder, I enclosed the legs of the ladder with 2x4s so they wouldn’t move. At the top of the ladder I attached a small wood platform like a tiny landing ramp secured by chains. Lastly, I secured the ladder with bungee cords to the gutter. It works and my new roof is clean as the gutters.