The company is the world’s best telescopic roof snow rake supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

1. Home
2. Reviews
3. Roofing

What Is a Rake on a Roof?

By Amanda Lutz

Your home’s roofing system can seem complex, especially if you’re a new homeowner. There are multiple parts that have to work in tandem for a roof to perform at peak functionality. While most homeowners won’t need to understand how all elements of a roof work, learning how a rake on a roof functions can help you ensure that your roof doesn’t suffer moisture-related damage.

A rake on a roof or roof rake, not to be confused with a handheld roof rake, is the exposed part of any gabled roof system that stretches from an eave to the ridge of the roof’s sloped sides. It’s typically made of smartboard, pine, cedar, concrete, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), but the specific material will depend on your home’s style and trim. Our guide covers the various types of roof rakes, how to choose the right one, and maintenance tips.

Types of Roof Rakes

A roof rake covers the top edge of your roof, helping keep your roof intact and protecting it from the elements. The two most common types of roof rakes are exposed and closed rakes.

• Enclosed (boxed-in) roof rake: Enclosed roof rakes are covered with a protective material. They typically offer greater defense against external elements than exposed rakes.
• Exposed roof rake: Exposed roof rakes are designed to leave the framing of the eaves visible. This style is designed to match the overhang of the eaves and is typically lightweight.

Aside from these two styles of roof rakes, there are specific tools that can help keep your shingles and gutters free of debris in between regular maintenance visits from a professional roofer. It’s easy to get the two confused, but you can differentiate them by remembering that the rake of a roof refers to the sloped edge of a pitched roof, while a handheld roof rake is a tool that’s designed to remove snow and debris from a roof.

Here are three common handheld tools:

• Gutter-cleaning roof rake: While you can hire a professional roofer to clean your gutters, you can use a gutter-cleaning roof rake to handle it on your own. A gutter-cleaning roof rake allows you to scoop out leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters with relative ease.
• Snow roof rake: A snow roof rake is designed for clearing snow and ice off a roof. It’s ideal if you’ve received 6 inches or more of snow and ice. Most snow roof rakes have extension poles that reach up to 30 feet long, so you can use this tool from the ground.
• Telescoping roof rake: A telescoping roof rake gets its name from its distinctive design, which resembles a telescope. Telescoping roof rakes can be used to remove ice, snow, leaves, and other debris from your roof, all from the safety and comfort of the ground. Telescoping roof rakes are typically lightweight and easy to maneuver, and they often come with a variety of attachments that you can use interchangeably, depending on the type of debris you need to remove.

Choosing a Roof Rake

Here are a few factors to keep in mind as you select a rake for your roof:

• Aesthetics: Curb appeal is important whether you live in a modern farmhouse or a chic bungalow. Make sure that the rake you choose matches your home’s overall design. Exposed rakes are typically designed to match the eaves’ overhang, while enclosed rakes can usually be incorporated into your home’s existing architecture. Either enclosed or exposed rakes can fit with most home styles, though exposed home rakes are often associated with contemporary or modern home styles. Most brands have multiple color options so you can match the look of the rake to your property.
• Material: As we mentioned above, the most common roof rake materials include pine, cedar, PVC, and smartboard; common roof rake coverings include vinyl, aluminum, and copper. Some homeowners might also choose metal rakes to match their metal roofs.
• Ventilation: The rake on your roof shouldn’t obstruct your roof’s ventilation system. Ensure that it maintains proper airflow and fits seamlessly into the design of your existing roof. Both enclosed and exposed roof rakes provide excellent ventilation. However, enclosed roof rakes can provide greater protection from the elements in addition to the ventilation requirements. If you’re planning on installing a new roof, consider a roof rake that will blend with that design and architecture.

If you’re unsure of what rake to go with, reach out to a roofing professional. A roofer can help you choose the right rake based on your roof eaves and roof rafters and discuss structural integrity requirements for each design.

Usage Tips for a Handheld Roof Rake

While the rake of a roof protects your home from the elements, a handheld roof rake can help you remove snow, ice, and other debris to protect your roof and keep the shingles from incurring damage.

Here are a few tips for safely using a handheld roof rake:

For more information, please visit carbon fiber extension pole supplier.

• Exercise caution if using a ladder: While you’ll typically use a roof rake from the ground, you may need to stand on a ladder to reach debris at the very top of your roof or in hard-to-reach places. Place the ladder on solid, even ground, and use a ladder stabilizer or hooks to attach the ladder to your roof peaks or eaves. If you’re uncomfortable using a ladder, hire a professional.
• Inspect your roof before cleaning it: Roof rakes are designed to be easy to use while standing on the ground, but limited visibility can make it easy to miss potential issues. If your roof has loose shingles or loose gutters, you could accidentally catch them with the roof rake and cause serious damage to your roofing system. Have a roof inspection done before clearing your roof to ensure you don’t get caught by loose or broken roofing elements.
• Stand clear of falling ice and snow: Heavy snow, icicles, or large branches can pose a threat to your safety. Wear safety gloves and goggles, and work slowly so you can see and anticipate anything dangerous that might fall off your roof.

Whenever you use a rake on a roof, be particularly careful around the edge of the roof, soffits, and gutters. These areas have edges that are easy to catch with the rake and jostle loose. In general, start at the edge of a roof and work your way up, moving in small sections until your roof is clear.

Roof Rake Maintenance

Roof rakes are an important part of your roofing system, but they can be vulnerable to a variety of issues, from ice dams to pest infestations. Additionally, if your roof rake isn’t properly installed, your roof could be in danger of structural concerns, leaking, and other long-term problems. Routine roof inspections can alert you to potential issues and help extend the life of your roof. An annual inspection is usually sufficient, but consider bringing in a roofer to evaluate the rake of the roof if you experience any severe storms or damaging winds.

Another important maintenance step is to clean your roof regularly using a gutter-cleaning roof rake. You can also use a pressure washer to prevent moisture accumulation in and around the eave and rake board area.

Finally, waterproof and seal the rake of your roof. This is an important step to protect your roof from water leaks and ice dams. By properly sealing your roof, you’ll boost its integrity and enhance its durability so you can stay safe and comfortable in your home for years to come.

Common Roof Rake Problems

Some issues with roof rakes could potentially arise. Roof rakes are vulnerable to moisture accumulation, especially ice dams. Ice dams can lead to leakage and widespread roof damage. To safeguard against this, act fast in the event of a large snowstorm or flooding event, ensuring that your roof is free of large piles of snow and ice.

Additionally, roofing materials that make up the rake of a roof are prone to pest infestations. Insects and small rodents like to build nests in the shelter of roof openings, and if left unchecked, they can wreak havoc on a home’s structure. If you have a gable roof or a roof with a large overhang, schedule regular visits from a pest control professional, and act quickly if you suspect a pest problem.

Our Recommendation

The rake on a roof is a vital part of your home’s architecture, protecting your home from the elements and acting as a moisture barrier. This rake can be exposed or enclosed and comes in a range of materials and colors. When selecting a rake for your roof, consider your home’s design as well as the type of roof you have.

Handheld roof rakes, such as gutter cleaning and snow removal tools, can act as a secondary level of protection for your roofing system. Additionally, performing routine maintenance on your roof, including yearly inspections and periodic cleanings, can help you avoid pest infestations or moisture accumulation. Prioritizing roof maintenance not only supports the rake of your roof but also supports its overall longevity, keeping it in good condition for years.

What Is a Rake on a Roof FAQ

What is the difference between a rake and an eave on a roof?

The rake on a roof is the sloping overhang at the gable ends, while the eave of a roof is the horizontal overhang located at the bottom edge of a roof section. Both the rake and the eaves play important roles in the overall functionality of your roof.

Why is a roof rake important in roofing architecture?

The roof rake is a vital part of roofing architecture. It helps prevent water damage and leaks, helping your home remain dry during the year.

What are the different types of roof rakes?

There are two different types of roof rakes: enclosed and exposed. The right type of rake for you depends on the style of roof you have, your budget, and your aesthetic preferences. A roofing professional can advise you on what roof rake will work best with your home’s design.

How do I choose the right roof rake?

To choose the right roof rake, consider the style of your roof, the ventilation requirements of your attic space, and the style you prefer for your home. Considering these factors will help you decide between an enclosed or exposed rake.

Want more information on telescopic pole distributor? Feel free to contact us.