Winter is on the horizon, and that can bring snow to many parts of the country. Since snow sitting on your roof can lead to damage, getting a roof rake is a wise move. If you’re wondering what a roof rake is and why you need one – as well as which roof rake options are worth buying – here’s everything you need to know.
What Is a Roof Rake?
Roof rakes are hand tools that look similar to a garden hoe. They feature an end component that’s designed to help scrape built-up snow or leaves off a roof. The scrapper on the roof rake is mounted on a longer pole than what you’d typically see on a garden hoe or broom, allowing you to reach the peak of your roof with greater ease.
Most roof rakes are long enough to get to a one-story roof while you remain on the ground. Some may even extend to give you more reach, though that’s less common.
Why You Need a Roof Rake
While a little bit of snow or some fallen leaves aren’t usually a problem for your roof, large quantities can cause issues. With snow, significant amounts can get quite heavy, and your roof may struggle – or fail to – manage the weight. In a worst-case scenario, too much snow could cause a roof to collapse.
Built-up snow also increases your risk of ice dams. Ice dams occur when snow on your roof melts during the day and then freezes again when temperatures drop. The water can make its way under shingles, causing damage when it freezes. Plus, the water may then seep into other parts of your home, leading to water damage.
Substantial leaf build-up on your roof can also cause issues. Leaves can trap moisture, and that can lead to water damage or rot. Plus, excessive leaves clog gutters as they slide down the roof, preventing water from rain or melting snow from coming off your roof correctly.
4 Roof Rakes to Save Your Roof This Winter
1. Avalanche! 20-Foot Snow Roof Rake
The Avalanche! 20-Foot Snow Roof Rake is an excellent choice for homeowners with one-story homes looking for a straightforward way to remove snow and prevent ice dams. It features a 24-inch wide head, which is sizeable enough to make removal efficient while small enough to remain manageable. Plus, it has built-in wheels that can help you avoid any accidental roof damage, as they prevent the head from scrapping directly across shingles, solar panels, or other roof coverings.
Another nice feature is that you can use fewer of the provided segments to make the pole shorter. That works well if your roof doesn’t make 20 feet of reach necessary, ensuring this roof rake is easy to wield.
2. Eversprout Never-Scratch SnowBuster
With the Eversprout Never-Scratch SnowBuster, you get a telescoping handle that can extend up to 12 feet, giving up to 18 feet of reach, depending on your height. It features a foam head that won’t scratch most roof materials. Plus, it has a push-and-pull design, making it relatively versatile.
Compared to many alternatives, this roof rake is also relatively low cost. It also arrives fully assembled, so it’s ready to use right out of the box.
3. Snowpeeler Roof Rake
With the Snowpeeler Roof Rake, you get up to 30 feet or reach, making this a strong choice for longer roofs. It features a box-shaped blade with an attached metal sheet, allowing snow to easily slide down and off of your roof.
Thanks to the built-in glide pads, this roof rake won’t damage shingles or many other roofing materials. Since it’s all aluminum, it’s also reasonably lightweight and can stand the test of time, which can make the higher purchase prices worthwhile.
4. Avalanche! Snow Rake Combo Pack
This Avalanche! Snow Rake Combo Pack gives you two tools with a single purchase. You get a simple snow removal head and a deluxe version that works well on very deep snow. There are built-in wheels on both options, which makes the tool easier to maneuver. Plus, it comes with a sectioned handle that can get as long as 15.5 feet long.
Do you have any tips that can help homeowners find the perfect roof rakes for their properties? Have you tried any of the roof rakes above and want to let others know how well it worked? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Read More:
- How a Metal Roof Can Help You Save Money Over Time
- 5 Reasons to Save Up for a New Roof
- How Roof Lights Can Help Reduce Your Household Energy Bills
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