A roof rake is a column-mounted snow removal tool designed to remove the snow from the roof. It is like the snow shovel for the top.
Some of these rakes pull snow down, causing it to fall on the ground or in the gutters. Others push upwards, which sends the snow to the attached tarpaulin sheet, so it doesn’t fall on you or the plants. The best roof rake has a non-slip grip to prevent them from slipping from the hands.
The rubber handle is located at the pole end to prevent your hand from slipping when pushing snow. The overall frame for many models is made of lightweight plastic and aluminum material, making it easy to maneuver and lightweight.
Thanks to the push button, which makes these devices fold. Once they fold, it’s easy to store them in the garage, taking up little space.
Likewise, the blades are flexible, making it easy to work near the pipes or in gutters. They do not leave the beaks that could damage the roof’s infrastructure.
Also, the length of the poles is long enough for an ordinary person to sue. Continue reading this article if you want the best roof rakes.
Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Roof Rakes
Ergonomic design
The ergonomic design is the most important factor to consider when buying the roof rack. Make sure you go for the model with this feature because it allows for better body movement while using the equipment. The ergonomic design also helps to ease the operator’s burden when using the rake.
Rake Size
The roof rake needed to clear the snow will depend on the rake size. To correctly determine the right size, use a measuring tape to determine the distance from the eaves by a gutter to the roof’s ridgeline. The rake must cover at least this distance.
Most single-family homes use a rake of between 16 and 18 feet. You need to make sure the rake frame is sturdy. If the rake is long, it will be hard to control it. The sturdy frame offers more control than less and raking room for errors.
Blade material
The blade is the crucial part of the roof rake. Typically, this is a critical factor when removing snow from the roof. Blade material has a significant influence on quality.
Although the metallic blade is considered very durable, it does not promise maximum protection of the top. For this reason, some brands include rollers in the metallic blades to minimize contact with the ceiling. The size of the blades should also be another factor you need to consider.
Handle
This is another crucial factor to consider when buying the best roof rake. Of the quality factors, the feature of the telescope must be taken into account. Those with this feature are an excellent option for the higher ceilings.
Alternatively, you can choose the handles with easily adjustable snap handles. Essentially, this makes it easy to transport them and is ideal for adjusting roof height. In addition, the curved handles can reduce the rake’s vertical trajectory effort. Other characteristics to consider in the handle are weight and slip resistance.
Rollers
When buying the roof rake, you need to consider if it is the rollers. This factor is vital for metallic models. The rollers minimize contact between the roof and the rake. So, this will ensure that you don’t damage the tiles or roof shingles.
Design
The slicer and the scoop are the basic designs, which should be available with the roof rake. The slicer is the push-pull snow removal system, which uses the plastic slide and blade. On the other hand, the scoop does there to collects the snow that you have removed from the roof.
Weather resistance and durability
Make sure the roof rake comes with the material, which is premium. It is recommended to look for the model with the aircraft-grade aluminum body.
This body is weather-resistant and durable and offers a long service. Corrosion is impossible with this type of material, and the structure will last for years. Typically, the tool’s cutting blade has a polyethylene blade that allows them to cut through without the snow sticking.
Type of head
If you’re in a hurry, there is a need for a large roof rake head to bring in more snow with each use. The ideal head is typically 3 to 10 inches thick and 12 to 24 inches wide. This type of head saves energy and time when working.
The slicer and scoop are two standard models for household activities. The slicer blade pushes the pile of snow against gravity. But the scoop blades help to pull the snow, which is in powder form, to the ground and another left by gravity.
Durability
The roof rake is supposed to remove the snow, which has accumulated. Additional force is applied when pulling the pole downwards.
A high-quality roof rake is supposed to withstand this grain. In addition, the flexibility ensures uniform snow removal from roof edges and corners.
You may want to consider a metal rake-like aluminum or steel. These rakes are more durable but more expensive and heavier. Another option can be the plastic material, but it is prone to cracking. If you choose heavy-duty plastic, it can be good, particularly in areas with light snow.
Rake material
Usually, the roof rake comprises a rake head and an adjustable pole. The pole has aluminum material, which makes it durable and lightweight.
On the other hand, the head can be made from pre-cast polyethylene, aluminum, or industrial-grade plastic. Therefore, it can endure extensive lateral thrust.
Overall weight
According to the material you choose, some roof rakes weigh less than others, making them easy to handle. It all depends on whether you’re shoveling the snow yourself or someone helping you.
The heavy roof rake becomes hard to manage and can’t be carried for a long period. This is a problem common to all metallic rakes on the market. These problems do not occur with the aluminum alloy.
Storage space
It is an imperative factor to consider when buying the roof rake is the storage space. Make sure there is enough space. Many have folding handles that dramatically shorten the overall length. Some are even broken into smaller pieces to take them apart and store them without any hassle.
Wheels, rollers, and casters
These components are essential for the proper operation of the roof rake. Typically, the caster should be large enough to move over the bricks or tiles’ edges without sticking.
Look for the models with treads that improve traction by moving the model up and down on the roof. The presence of the wheels ensures the cutting blade does not touch your tile or shingle, hence damaging the roof.
Warranty
Most of the roof rakes come with a 1 or 2-year manufacturer’s warranty. However, this warranty does not cover the normal tool during tear and wear. The warranty only covers the defects.
Therefore, changes such as the cutting rails and head will likely benefit from the warranty. It is imperative to remember that manufacturers will replace the roof rake if they believe it is because of a defect.
5 Best Roof Rake
1. Avalanche 24-Inch 2000 Snow Roof Rake
This roof rake product from Avalanche is unique because it is easy to use, lightweight, no ladder required and removes up to one ton of snow every minute.
For one thing, it prevents the snow from forming and also prevents the rooftop and home from being damaged. In like manner, it is designed for flat roofs like trucks, RV’s, trailers, and other flat rooftops.
The model has built-in 1.5-inch wheels that can prevent it from damaging the rooftops. It is lightweight, which weighs about 8 pounds, making it easy to carry around the house.
Also, it makes it easy to store. On the other hand, it is easy to assemble, where you snap the parts together and watch the snow sliding off your roof:
This roof rake is versatile, making it easy to get the snow off a variety of surfaces. In a like manner, it has built-in wheels that can prevent it from damaging different roof surfaces. Thanks to the angled handle, you can get the best grip on the ice without straining too much.
2. Extreme Max Shingle-Saver 21-Inch Roof 5600.3207 Snow Rake
You can now easily remove heavy snows and long winters on the roof with this model from Extreme Max. It comes with an angled blade that can offer more use in a small space and is operational on two-story houses and low-pitched roofs.
You will get the blade rollers, which can give you a close shave you require without damaging any single shingle.
I really appreciate the aluminum material that can make it lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easy to maneuver.
Simple snap-buttons let a quick handle disassemble the storage model even in the tight garage corners when removing snow is done. The versatile blade can offer outstanding snow removal effort in a large to cut in the drifts, building upon the roof.
Similarly, it weighs 5.75 pounds that make it lightweight, which is easy for maneuverability and transport. The model offers a reach of about 21 inches that means it cannot scratch many itches. What is more, it is very strong to pull through on the heaviest snows.
3. SNOWPEELER Aluminum Heavy-Duty Roof Rake
The SnowPeeler prevents ice dams, and removing snow on the roof is made easy, safe, and fast.
You will get a cost-effective and practical solution to protect the roof against snow loads, which create ice dams. More importantly, it is designed with protective glide pads to ensure the roof will not be damaged.
The tapered cutting frame can make it easy to slice through hard and fresh-packed snow. On the other hand, it comes with a durable and robust aluminum blade that can cut through the build-up on the roof.
The extra braces are also available, increasing the strength and not breaking or buckle under pressure.
The handle comes with four five-foot sections that can go from between 5 and 20 feet, depending on the roof height. Also, the sectional pole handle makes it easy to install and store.
Above all, this roof rake comes with a 2-year warranty that makes it convenient for every buyer because you can replace it if there is a defect.
4. GYMAX Adjustable Aluminum Snow Roof Extendable Rake
If you want to remove snow quickly without much stress, go for this roof rake from GYMAX.
It comes with a long adjustable handle and a twist-n-lock design that can make it suitable for users with different heights. Likewise, you can adjust the length between 6.5 and 21 feet to reach every corner of the roof.
A big blade is available, which can help you remove snow effortlessly and fast, as the L-shape design can easily remove and hold a significant amount of snow.
Additionally, the non-slip feature on the handle allows you to work very safely. The model has high-quality aluminum material that can make it durable enough to be used for long.
The support rods form the firm triangular structure between the main tube and the blade, facilitating the excellent stability of the rake. It is easy to install because it only takes some minutes to get the right snow rake. Likewise, it weighs 5 lbs that can make it easy to use and carry.
5. MOLANEPHY 21FT Extendable Roof Rake
Many people have gone for this rake from MOLANEPHY because it is ideal for removing snow and other debris, leaving your roof clean.
Notably, it comes with a high-quality nylon fabric and aluminum material that are durable, lightweight, and resistant to rust and tear. It is easy to assemble this tool because no tools are needed, making it easier to remove snow from the roofs.
You can adjust the rake length between 5 and 21 feet, consistent with the actual needs to allow you to clean each corner of the rooftop.
Essentially, you don’t need to climb the ladder; only keep your feet on the floor. The 18 x 9.5-inch wide-head cutter and nylon snow slide help you to remove snow that slip from the roof efficiently.
This roof rake comes with two 3-inch diameter rollers, making it easy to move, protecting the roof. The telescoping handle is about 17 feet that can offer extra length to give you additional versatility, based on whether that is your home, a vehicle, or a cabin.
Furthermore, the handle comes with a hole located at the end to help you hang it if you want to store it.
Conclusion
The roof rakes are the right tools when you want to clear snow and dirt from the roof and along the driveway. Typically, the above products come with a non-slip grip that can ensure there is complete control.
The robust and high-quality materials make sure the rake quickly reaches the roof ridgeline without bending. Also, the extended length makes it fit for most homes that have no ladders.
Extreme Max Shingle-Saver 21-Inch Roof 5600.3207 Snow Rake is the best-selling model because it has blade rollers that can offer a close snow clearing.
Besides, it comes with aluminum material, which can make it lightweight and easy to maneuver. This product has achieved the above factors because it has the rollers, which offer close clearing of the snow, and has the aluminum material, which is easy to carry and maneuver.