Roofing Tools Explained

As most anyone can guess, roofing is no easy job. The hours are long, and if the weather isn’t the best, it can be somewhat miserable. There are quite a few benefits, but in order to get through any type of roofing project, you’re going to need the right set of tools. From hip runners to all in one hammers, a roofer’s tool set is made up of a unique assortment of items designed to keep them safe and ensure the job gets done right. In this article, we will outline a few of these items and provide various explanations on how to use them.

Slate Cutter – This item is use to cut through shingles and slate. There are lower grade models and heavy duty cutters which are designed to easily cut through industrial strength shingles and slate through roughly ½ thick. If you can find one, consider purchasing a model which has a punch included to provide added control.

Ridge Bucket – Basically a glorified trash can, this bucket is used for clean and easy disposal of various roofing materials, including shingles, nails, and whatever you might find atop a roof. The specialty of the ridge bucket is its ability to cling to the surface of the roof, thus avoiding any slipping and sliding if it happens to be perched on an angle.

Hip Runners – This tool is used to ensure that each of the hips placed on the roof are good and straight. The span of the runners can be adjusted, depending on the width of the hips you will be laying. Most professional contractors generally find this tool to be imperative to a job well done.

Seaming Pliers – A good pair of seaming pliers are perfect for those stubborn and difficult shingles that just won’t budge. This tool comes intact with specialized teeth that work to grip and hold onto roofing materials where other pliers won’t. Utilizing a good pair of work gloves in conjunction with this tool can help to protect your hands from unnecessary blisters.

Slater’s Hammer – A Slater’s hammer is an all-in-one device which works as a hammer and an axe. Not only do you have a hammer head on the front, but on the back side you’ll find a small blade which can come in very handy during most any project. This is perfect for jobs in which you are provided with the task of stripping an entire roof in order to prepare it for the new shingles.

Things to Consider:

If you’re still looking for additional tools or are unsure of how to use one of the above, your best bet for free, quality instruction is your local hardware store. Most sales associates will be more than happy to explain the benefits and techniques associated with any given tool.

Additionally, always remember to keep safety at the forefront. Always be aware of your surroundings and be sure to utilize safeguards in order to help in minimizing the possibility of falls or slipping.