Tips Reference

The Tools You’ll Need to Start Your Roofing Job

Posted on 30. Mar, 2009 by Mark Coleman in Roofing

You can’t go wrong hiring a qualified professional for a roofing project. But with a little bit of time and knowledge, and often with the help of a few friends, replacing a roof can be a rewarding do it yourself project. If you use the right roofing tools the job can be relatively easy. Look for these tools at a local hardware store.

Nothing beats a slate cutter for cutting slate and shingles. It cuts through most roofing materials like a hot knife through butter. For even the thickest shingles an industrial version slices them easily. For an easier start and more control make sure to get a model with a punch.

Instead of throwing the shingles to the ground, which requires a constant trek to the perilous edge, consider a ridge bucket. These buckets hug the roof so they won’t slip even on a steep roof. It’s safer and quicker to use this bucket to dispose of materials.

Use a hip runner to install ridge cap and hip ridges perfectly straight every time. Contractors use hip runners, so do it yourself roofers should take the hint.

Seaming pliers are another important roofing tool. They’re for pulling off shingles, especially stubborn shingles that almost have a mind of their own intent on staying in place. Seaming pliers have teeth to grip the shingle without tearing it. Combine the pliers with a good pair of thick work gloves to save your fingers and hands from injuries such as scrapes, bruises and blisters caused by gripping and pulling rough shingles.

What has a hammer head on one side and an ax and blade on the other? No, not a movie hero’s weapon, it’s a slater’s hammer. This roofing tool is for both for removing the old roof and installing the new roof. It’s also useful as a regular hammer and with the ax and blade for other projects besides roofing.

Most local hardware stores rent these tools as well as sell them. This way a roofing novice can use the best quality tools rather than one that’s cheaper to purchase. Keep in mind too that knowledge is a roofing tool as important as any other. These local hardware stores are also sources of information on roofing. Between books they carry and staff on hand who can give you advice, they can prepare a person for every step of the roofing process.