How to Choose the Right Roofing Tear-Off Shovel

By Equipter.

Learn what to look for when examining the composition of top-quality roofing shovels.

Tearing off a roof is tiring work, but it doesn’t have to be a long, drawn-out process. Just make sure your roofers are using the right tear-off tools. But how do you choose the right roofing shovel for your crew? How do you know your roofers are using the right shovel right now?

One aspect to focus on when choosing tear-off shovels for your crew is the shovel’s composition. Is it made of durable materials and constructed in a way that maximizes its power without forcing your crew into early retirement as a result of long-term lower back pain?

Here are just a few specifics to note when examining the composition of top-quality roofing shovels.

1. Shovel head material

Durability is key to a quality-made roofing shovel. Steel blades are ideal for tearing off asphalt shingles. While steel is naturally heavier than aluminum, steel-based shovel heads will last longer. This means less frustration and downtime for your crew, since these shovels are less likely to bend after a few uses.

2. Shaft material

The two main choices of shovel shafts, or poles, are fiberglass and wood. While wooden poles are more traditional, fiberglass shovel shafts are lightweight and won’t splinter over time. Some wooden shafts can be negatively affected by fluctuations in humidity in some environments, as well. Fiberglass, therefore, tends to be the go-to preference for professional roofers.

3. Shovel handle composition

While it’s not uncommon for the handle of a tear-off shovel to be made of the same material as its shaft, many shovel handles have additional features that make them more comfortable for roofers to use throughout the day. It’s important to note, however, that handles that are screwed or glued onto shovel shafts can loosen over time. This poses a safety risk and can lead to downtime if you don’t have a spare on hand.

Ripping off shingles from roofs all week long can be draining, especially when you’re stuck working with large, heavy shovels. Not only are they a drag, but they’re not as effective in tighter spaces or tearing off shingles around chimneys, weather vanes, cupolas, or other roof accessories. For that reason, it’s handy to keep one or two smaller shovels within reach on most roofing jobs.

What about roofing shovel design, size and brand?

We’re so glad you asked! What you need to consider doesn’t stop with a shovel’s composition.

Want a comprehensive analysis of top-quality roofing shovels?

Equipter’s free guide dives even deeper into more of what matters when it comes to choosing the right roofing shovel, from design characteristics like weight and comfort to the importance of size (because size always matters for tear-off shovels).

When you download the full guide, you get even more inside info, including but not limited to: 

• The effects a tear-off shovel has on your crew

• Why different roofers may need different shovels

• Reviews of 5 industry-leading tear-off shovels (and where to find them)

• How multiple tear-off tools can change your business

Get your FREE copy of “How to Choose the Right Roofing Tear-Off Shovel for Your Crew” now.

Learn more about Equipter in their RoofersCoffeeShop® Directory.