Top 13 Best Snow Roof Rakes Of 2024
Brandon Forder May 17, 2024 11:01 AM
The editors at This Old House have done the legwork for you, researching the top-rated snow rakes available on Amazon and compiling a buyer's guide that covers everything you need to know before making your purchase. The items discussed here can be purchased from a variety of hardware and internet stores, including Amazon.
The tall pole and wide head of a snow rake make quick work of the snow. Even while most people use snow rakes to clear snow from rooftops, some models are compact enough to be utilized on vehicles or even sidewalks.
We looked into the highest rated snow rakes on Amazon and compiled this buyer's guide to assist you in making an informed decision. Read on to find out which snow rakes are currently selling at the highest prices on Amazon, as well as other helpful information to have at hand when making your purchase.
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Pole
The pole of a snow rake should be evaluated for size, material, and comfort.
Pole Size
The standard length for a snow rake pole is 14–24 feet. Having a longer pole will allow you to reach a larger area of roof, but it will also make it more difficult to direct the rake's path. Find a snow rake that you can adjust in length so it fits in your storage space and so you're not struggling with a long pole.
You can reduce the length of some poles by removing a piece. You may adjust the length of other telescopic poles to suit your needs by simply extending them.
Pole Material
It's important that the pole isn't too heavy and can withstand some rusting. While the majority of snow rake poles are made of aluminum, which satisfies both criteria, certain models also include fiberglass poles.
Ergonomics
When shopping for a snow pole, look for one that has a rubber or foam grip.
Weight
A snow rake's heft is proportional to the length of its pole and the thickness of its blade. Most of the weight of a snow rake is concentrated in its head, which can weigh anywhere from 4 to 14 pounds. Find a happy medium between the amount of snow you want to rake and the weight you can comfortably lift.
Length
In order to reach the peak of your roof, a rake with an appropriately long pole is required. As an alternative, you should just rake the snow from the roof's uppermost two or three feet, where the ice and water barrier is still in good condition and protecting the shingles.
When it comes to residential roofs, shorter poles can be useful for slopes between 4/12 (where the roof rises 4 inches for every linear foot) and 6/12. (6 inches for every linear foot). Snow roof rakes may not be suited for use on the steeper roofs of multi-story residences, even if the poles are longer than those used on single-story homes. Some snow roof rakes can extend to a height of twenty feet, making them ideal for clearing snow from taller buildings. Naturally, it becomes more challenging to efficiently maneuver a snow roof rake the taller the pole.
Material
Snow removal roof rakes can be crafted from a wide variety of materials, such as metal, wood, fiberglass, polyethylene, and even aluminum.
The shaft of a roof rake is typically made of fiberglass since it is lightweight and resistant to damage. With such a sturdy base, people may push and drag snow without worrying about the weight or fragility of a traditional shaft.
The rake's head is made of polyethylene, a form of plastic. It's inexpensive, sturdy, and resistant to the elements, though aluminum will last longer.
However, the harsh metal can scratch or shred shingles, thus it's best to use a different material for the shaft and head of the rake. Investing in a roof rake with wheels will help you prevent this problem by keeping the rake's edge from going over the edge of the roof.
Because of its susceptibility to decay when subjected to moisture and snow, wood is never utilized for the roof rake's head. Roof rake shafts are often made of fiberglass, however wood can be used instead.
Head Design
The breadth of a roof rake's head can be anywhere from 12 inches to 24 inches, and its depth can be anywhere from 3 inches to 10 inches. However, if the snow is thick and heavy, it may require greater physical strength to drag it, which can contribute to back and shoulder discomfort even with a larger rake head.
Proper use of tools with curved heads and removable attachments like a scoop, blade, or plastic slide can significantly reduce fatigue. To avoid scratching the roof or tearing up the shingles, it's smart to search for a roof rake that has wheels or bumpers built right in. This is especially vital if the rake has a blade attachment or a head made of aluminum.
Do you need a snow rake?
Rather of risking one's balance on a slippery pitched surface a few feet off the ground, it is safer to pull snow off a roof from the ground. A snow rake could be useful if you get ice jams on your roof or if you live in a region that receives a lot of snow. However, if snowfalls average a few inches of loose powder, your roof doesn't leak, and ice damming isn't a major issue, you can leave the snow where it is.
How do you choose a snow rake?
Think about whether you'll be raking shingles, metal, solar panels, or some other material, then select the appropriate roof rake. Be sure to pick a rake that is both lightweight enough to use safely and long enough to reach at least the first couple of feet, where the shingles are still likely to be protected by the roof's ice and water barrier.
Do roof rakes damage shingles?
A roof rake head's blade can tear up asphalt shingles. This is especially true for aluminum rake heads, but you may prevent the problem altogether by purchasing a roof rake with wheels that keep the head hovering just over the shingle surface.
Do roof rakes prevent ice dams?
Having a roof rake on hand isn't going to do much to stop ice dams from forming. When it snows, you or someone else in the house will need to utilize the roof rake to clear the accumulated snow. Avoid having to remove ice from your gutters by taking care of this work the day it snows.
During our research, we were able to narrow the options down to eight high-quality roof rakes that we believe would meet the needs of any homeowner. Some cost more but are more convenient and sturdy in usage. The cheaper rakes are not as well crafted, but they are still a decent value for the money. The handle will likely shake a little bit. Wet, heavy snow may also be too much for them to handle. Spend the extra money on one that can withstand heavier snowfall if you live in a region that regularly experiences it.
Find out how long and how wide of a blade your rake needs to be. What rake you need depends on the dimensions of your home and the pitch of your roof.
