Archive for the ‘roofing’ tag
Roofing Tools Required To Replace Your Roof
There’s no doubt it’s a wise move to hire a professional contractor to remove, install or maintain a roof. 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. The key to doing it yourself rather than doing yourself in is the right roofing tools. These tools can be found at the local hardware store.
A slate cutter does just what the name implies, cuts slate and shingles. It slices through most roofing materials like a hot knife through butter. For even the thickest shingles an industrial version slices them easily. Some models have a punch to get them started, which also offers better control in the cutting process.
Shingles and refuse can be disposed of by trekking to the edge and tossing them to the ground, right? Wrong! Use a ridge bucket. These buckets are designed to hug the roof so they don’t slip even on a steep incline. It’s safer and easier to use a ridge bucket to dispose of materials.
When it comes time to install hip ridges and ridge cap, it’s time to pull out a hip runner. Contractors use hip runners, so do it yourself roofers should take the hint.
Seaming pliers are another important roofing tool. They’re for removing shingles, especially stubborn shingles that almost have a mind of their own intent on staying in place. Seaming pliers include flat 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 from gripping and pulling rough shingles.
A slater’s hammer has a hammer head, as well as a small ax and a blade on the opposite side. This roofing tool can be used 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 home owner can use the best quality tools rather than one that’s cheaper to purchase. Knowledge is also a roofing tool, perhaps the most important of them. These local hardware stores are also sources of information on roofing.
