Snow rakes special tools to help remove excessive snow from rooftops and to prevent damages and leakages caused by the immense weight of snow and ice accumulation.
How does a snow rake work? Heavy, thick layers of snow piled up on your roof, potentially causing leaks, ice dams, and even collapsing. The top snow rakes can simply glide across the roof's surface and clear the snow without having to climb an icy ladder, which can be risky and unsafe.
The best snow rakes come with a long telescoping handle and a wide, flat blade or rake end for efficient and safe snow removal. The snow rake allows easy sliding under the snow layers, breaking them apart and letting gravity do the rest.
Heavy snowfall can pose various risks to the structural integrity of any building, especially roofs. The excessive weight may cause the roof to collapse, leading to costly damage and potential injuries.
Furthermore, the snow that melts and refreezes at the edge of the roof can contribute to the formation of ice dams, which can force water into your home and result in roof repairs, water damage, and even mold. Preventative maintenance using a snow rake can save you time, and money, and provide peace of mind.
Next, let's explore the different types of snow rakes:
Traditional snow rake: The most basic and common type featuring a rectangular. Its flat head is made of either metal or reinforced plastic, with teeth-like edges for better snow-grasping capabilities. It’s mounted on a sturdy, extendable handle to suit various roof heights.
Roof rakes for snow removal: It has a cylindrical roller attached to the rake head, allowing it to glide on the roof more smoothly. The roller prevents direct contact between the rake head and the roof, minimizing potential damage to your shingles.
Roof rakes for ice removal: It has a large head with a thin, fabric-like slide. When pulled, it creates a snow avalanche effect, allowing chunks of snow and ice to slide off the roof easily.
Twist-n-Lock Snow Rake: As the name suggests, this type offers a secure, twist-n-lock mechanism for the telescopic handle. The handle can be easily adjusted and locked in place to suit your height requirements, providing stability during snow removal or ice removal from any type of roof, including metal roofs.
Electric snow rake: For extra convenience, the electric snow rake works similarly to a hand-held snow rake but is powered by an electric motor. This can make the snow and ice-clearing process less labor-intensive and more efficient. It is also suitable for any type of roof.
In summary, snow rakes are essential tools for anyone living in a winter wonderland.