6 Tools Every Roof Installer Should Own

Without the right tools and gadgets, even the most seasoned roofing contractors will find it hard to finish a job. Selecting the right type of devices is an essential factor for any installer looking to expand his gadgetry. Since majority of roofing tools are relatively universal in use, here are the five that will mostly come in handy for any roof specialists.

Roof Snake

A roof snake can quickly and accurately replace composition shingles. A roof snake has a distinct offset nail-slot feature that can help you line up new nails with the correct one-inch offset from the existing course. It can also install new shingles without hitting the surrounding shingles or with a hammer.

Moisture Meter

When it comes to roofs, the level of moisture and how to control it is an important consideration; and every roofer knows it. Moisture damage often causes a weak roof. Thus, preventing moisture during repair or construction is essential. The roof is commonly at risk for moisture damage during construction, renovation, or repair because it is exposed to elements. A moisture meter is a device every roofer should have, whether he is working with fiber cement or wood shingles.

Current models of moisture meters have greatly benefited from advancements in technology. Choosing a moisture meter with a pin or with a pinless sensing feature expands versatility. On the other hand, a remote probe allows you to test the amount of moisture in places that are hard to reach. Moisture meters are ideal gadgets for general troubleshooting and the yearly roof inspections. Additionally, they are instrumental in roof construction.

Investing in essential items like a moisture meter is worth every penny. Thus, you should pick a quality manufactured equipment. With the variety of uses, these items offer, top-quality and expertly made products have an extended lifespan and are not prone to breakage.

Magnetic Pickup Tools

As the name implies, magnetic pickup tools are devices used to grab items that you have accidentally dropped in hard-to-reach places. Magnetic pickup tools closely resemblance magnetic sweepers, however, the former are designed to grasp just one item directly. While magnetic sweepers are useful for checking over a roof for nails, screws, and other hardware, magnetic pickup tools are ideal for more precise retrieval of dropped hardware. For instance, if a small metal item falls into a downspout or gutter, it is safer and easier to get it back with a magnetic pickup tool.

There are multiple styles of magnetic pickup tools – from basic telescope options to lighted and mechanical models. Some of these pickup gadgets have magnets capable of impressively pulling up to 10lbs.

Laser Distance Measurer

Taking measurements could get frustrating, especially since accuracy is essential. Also, writing down the measurements on a piece of paper and losing it later on can disrupt work processes and operations. This is easily remedied by laser distance measuring tools that can track and store all of your measurements in a user-friendly and free app that can be installed right on your mobile device. These laser measurement devices make use of Bluetooth technology; they take digital measurements and transmit the data to your phone through Bluetooth synching.

Utility Knife

If there’s one tool that you can find on any contractor’s utility belt or toolbox, it’s the utility knife. A utility knife is a definite must-have for roofing contractors. From opening boxes to scoring flashing and cutting up materials, roofers find utility knives extremely handy. You can get utility knives at extremely affordable prices. However, favoring the cost of the item over quality is an oversight. Cheap utility knives are often poorly made. They can also be a hazard to use if they fail during use. Industrial blades are astonishingly sharp; thus, making sure that your utility knife is well-made and durable is crucial.

Safety Equipment

In 2017, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have recorded over 930 worker fatalities in construction. Of these deaths, over 300 were due to falling. Since the work conditions of roofing contractors require them to be on a high, unstable footing, falling is a serious risk. And thus, ensuring safety is a priority. Gloves, hard hats, safety glasses, and body harness are key safety equipment pieces.