Roof Jacks Explained: Cost, Installation, and Benefits

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 Roof Jacks


Roof Jacks Explained: Cost, Installation, and Benefits

Roof jacks are essential tools for any roofing project whether you’re a homeowner tackling repairs or a contractor working on steep-slope roofs. Without proper footing, roofing becomes risky, inefficient, and technically challenging. Roof jacks provide the stable, elevated platform needed to walk, install shingles, and perform maintenance safely and effectively.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn everything about roof jacks what they are, how to install them, how much they cost, how long they last, their applications, advantages, challenges, and professional tips to help you get the most out of them.

What Are Roof Jacks?

Roof jacks are metal brackets that attach directly to the roof deck using nails. Once installed, workers place wooden planks (usually 2×10 or 2×12 boards) into these brackets to create a standing platform. This platform allows roofers to move safely, carry materials, and work on slopes that would otherwise be dangerous.

Common Applications of Roof Jacks

  • Installing or replacing shingles
  • Repairing flashing and chimneys
  • Painting or maintaining steep roof sections
  • Cleaning gutters on tall or angled roofs
  • Snow removal or ice-dam maintenance
  • Solar panel installation preparation

Roof jacks are used on steep-slope roofing, generally anything above 6/12 pitch, where normal footing becomes difficult or unsafe.


What Are Roof Jacks?

Benefits of Using Roof Jacks

1. Safety and Stability

The primary advantage is worker safety. Roof jacks reduce slipping risks and create a sturdy platform for heavy materials.

2. Improved Work Efficiency

A stable working surface allows roofers to move faster and more confidently, reducing installation time.

3. Versatility

Roof jacks adapt to different roof pitches and can be spaced according to job requirements.

4. Cost-Effective

Compared to scaffolding or professional staging systems, roof jacks are affordable and reusable.

5. Easy Installation and Removal

Installing roof jacks requires only basic tools and can be removed without major impact on the roof structure.

How to Install Roof Jacks (Step-by-Step)

Installing roof jacks requires precision to ensure both safety and performance. Below is a simple and reliable process:

1. Gather Required Materials

  • Roof jacks (pitch-specific or adjustable)
  • Roofing nails (16d recommended)
  • Hammer or nail gun
  • Wood planks (2×10 or 2×12)
  • Safety harness and rope

2. Locate Rafters

Roof jacks must be nailed into rafters, not just shingles. Use a stud finder or check from the attic if possible.

3. Position the Roof Jacks

Place roof jacks horizontally and spaced evenly, typically 4–6 feet apart.

4. Nail the Roof Jacks Securely

Use at least four heavy-duty nails per jack to ensure maximum load stability.

5. Insert Planks

Slide your wooden boards into the roof jack slots to create a working platform.

6. Add a Secondary Safety Jack (Optional)

For higher roofs, add a second row of roof jacks to catch tools or prevent falls.

7. Removing Roof Jacks

After finishing:

  • Slide planks out
  • Pry up the jacks
  • Re-nail the shingle holes with roofing cement to prevent leaks

How Much Do Roof Jacks Cost?

The cost of roof jacks varies by material, brand, and pitch.

Average Price Range

  • Standard steel roof jacks: $10 – $20 each
  • Heavy-duty or adjustable jacks: $25 – $45 each
  • Professional-grade jacks: $50+

Total Project Cost

For a typical roofing job, you may need 6–12 roof jacks, making the total cost between $100 and $350.

How Long Do Roof Jacks Last?

Most roof jacks last:

  • 10–20 years with proper maintenance
  • Longer if used infrequently
  • Shorter if exposed to corrosion or harsh climates
How Much Do Roof Jacks Cost?

How to Use Roof Jacks Effectively

1. Always Use Safety Gear

Never rely solely on roof jacks use a harness and rope tie-off.

2. Set the Right Pitch Jack

Use a jack specifically designed for your roof angle to maintain a perfectly leveled platform.

3. Use Strong Planks

Never use cracked or warped wood. Only pressure-rated lumber is safe.

4. Space Jacks Correctly

Spacing too far apart increases board flex and risk of breakage.

5. Inspect Before Reuse

Check for rust, bending, or structural weakness.

Advantages of Roof Jacks

✔ Affordable

✔ Reusable

✔ Easy to install

✔ Supports heavy loads

✔ Enables safe work on steep slopes

✔ Works with multiple plank sizes

Challenges and Risks Associated with Roof Jacks

⚠ Must be installed into rafters—incorrect installation can cause falls

⚠ Requires sealing nail holes afterward to avoid leaks

⚠ Planks may shift if not properly secured

⚠ Not suitable for flat roofs

⚠ Requires experienced handling on extremely steep pitches

FAQ: Roof Jacks

1. What are roof jacks used for?

They are used to create a stable working platform on steep roofs.

2. Do roof jacks damage the roof?

Only minor nail holes are left, which can be sealed with roofing cement.

3. Can beginners install roof jacks?

Yes, but beginners must follow safety guidelines and use a harness.

4. How much weight can roof jacks hold?

Most high-quality roof jacks hold up to 300–500 lbs when properly installed.

5. Can roof jacks be reused?

Yes, they are durable and designed for repeated projects.


Roof jacks are essential tools for anyone working on steep roofs. They improve safety, increase efficiency, and make roofing tasks more manageable for both homeowners and professionals. Whether installing shingles or repairing flashing, using roof jacks correctly ensures stable footing and better results. With proper installation and maintenance, roof jacks offer long-term value and reliable performance for nearly any roofing project.

Roof Jacks Explained: Cost, Installation, and Benefits

Other Resources

Explore these trusted sources for roof brackets, roof jacks, and safe roofing setup tools:

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