If you need to do some work on your roof, you should have the right tools and materials. Of course, that can include roofing as well as a sturdy ladder. But don’t forget about a good hammer to use for your roofing.
The best hammer for roofing is the AJC Standard Roofing Hammer. It has all of the features necessary to make it useful for a variety of roofing projects. Another great option is the AJC Adjustable Roofing Hammer, which provides more flexibility.
Whether you want to work on your roof or help someone else, you need an excellent hammer to get the job done. That way, you can fix any issues, and you can feel good about your work. Keep reading to learn about the best hammers for roofing.
What To Consider When Buying a Hammer
When buying a hammer for roofing, you should consider a few factors. For one, you don’t want to use any standard hammer that you already have. You need one that can work well on shingles and when putting nails into the roof.
If you use a regular hammer, you may be able to get the roof done. However, it won’t be as efficient as the best roofing hammer. A roofing hammer has a unique design and set of features that make it great for working outdoors.
Consider a few factors to look at when buying a roofing hammer. That way, you can choose the best one for you.
Parts
All roofing hammers feature a few parts that you should know. The design of a roofing hammer can differ from that of a standard hammer. Here are the elements of common roofing hammers.
The handle is the hammer’s base, and it may have a rubber grip, which can be very useful on a roof. You want to make sure you don’t drop the hammer because you could hurt someone on the ground, and you’d have to stop work to get the hammer.
The other major part of the hammer is the head, which is the topmost surface. Some roofing hammers have notches or holes on the head to help place shingles correctly. That way, you don’t also need to have and hold a measuring tool.
Next, you have the hammer’s face, where you will hit the nail into the shingles. Some faces have texture, while others are flat. Textures can help keep the hammer from slipping off the pin, so you can safely hammer in the nail when working.
Lastly, there’s the claw. The claw is the back part of the hammer, and it’s opposite the face. It is where you can lift nails if you need to remove them or reposition them. You can use the claw to grip the nail to pull it out of the shingle.
Features
You should also consider if you want your hammer to have any particular features. Some hammers are essential, but others offer some benefits.
Shingle removal tools can come in handy when redoing a roof. These hammers have different claw designs that make it easier to remove nails so that you can take off a shingle. That can be handy if you make a mistake when putting on shingles.
Nail holders can help you keep track of nails. This feature is standard on many hammers, and it’s a piece of magnetic metal. It will attract the metal nails, so you don’t need to worry about storing pins.
If you work with metric shingles, you may want a hammer with metric gauges. Metric shingles have more extensive exposures, and metric gauges can help you work with those larger shingles.
A shock reducer can also help reduce the vibration from the hammer. That can protect your hand when using the hammer, so you remain comfortable.
Hammer vs. Nail Gun
You may also want to decide if a roofing hammer is better for you or if you should use a nail gun. Roofing hammers offer sensory feedback and let you place nails precisely. You can also get the correct shingle exposure when using a hammer.
However, a nail gun isn’t as time-consuming, and the nail gun won’t wear down your arm. Nail guns are also more consistent than hammers, especially with inexperienced roofers.
Price
It would help if you also considered how much you could spend on equipment. If you’re doing your roof yourself, you may not want to invest much in gear you won’t use much. But if you’re going to be a professional roofer, it can be worth investing more in your equipment.
In either case, you should also consider how much you can afford right now. You can find some budget-friendly roofing hammers, so you can still get a good outcome without much money.
Now that you know what to look for in a hammer for roofing, you can consider a few options. Of course, the best one for you will vary based on your needs. But it can help to compare some standard roofing hammers, like these.
AJC Standard Roofing Hatchet
The AJC Standard Roofing Hatchet is an excellent roofing hammer that you can use on various roofs. It features a stationary screw gauge that you can set for 4, 5, or 5 5/8 inches exposure. And you can use the hammer with either your right or left hand.
- Does NOT contain a magnet like 005-MH
- Screw gauge can be set for 4”, 5”, or 5-5/8” exposure
- Constructed with a 18 oz steel head
Last update on 2023-06-12 at 16:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It has a head weight of 19 punches, and the blade uses heat-treated, drop-forged carbon steel. Meanwhile, the handle uses high-grade hickory, which can help with shock absorption.
This hammer is a little more expensive than some options, but it’s not too expensive. It’s an excellent choice for professionals and amateurs who need something to get started.
AJC Adjustable Roofing Hatchet
If you want an adjustable hammer, consider the AJC Adjustable Roofing Hatchet. It has many of the same features and a similar design to the other AJC model. However, this one lets you adjust to any exposure between 4 and 5 5/8 inches.
Last update on 2023-06-12 at 16:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You can use the adjustable sliding gauge to make up for wear and tear, and you can match other hatches in size. It also works well with metric measurements, and it’s easy to use.
The hammer uses the same carbon steel blade and hickory handle as the other AJC hammer.
Estwing Roofers Pick Hammer
The Estwing Roofers Pick Hammer is an excellent option if you have a bit more money to spend. It has a design that makes it perfect for professional roofing, so it’s a great investment for new and experienced roofers.
- Designed for the roofing trade
- Spike for making a hole in the slate
- Claw for extracting old nails
Last update on 2023-06-12 at 16:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This hammer is entirely steel, and it has a spike that you can use to make holes in the slate. The strong claw helps you extract old nails easily so that you can remove old shingles. Then, you can use the steel face to place the new shingle.
While it’s more expensive than the AJC hammers, it’s sturdy and of good quality. You can use it for many roofing jobs, and it should hold up.
Estwing Shingler’s Hammer
Another option to consider is the Estwing Shingler’s Hammer. It is a one-piece hammer with a durable design. You can use it for roofing, framing, and other construction work. It works with shingles that have a 4, 5, or 5 5/8 inch exposure for roofing.
- FORGED IN ONE PIECE – The most durable, longest lasting striking tools available are crafted from a single piece of solid steel and honed into the optimal design for use.
- VERSATILITY ON THE JOB – The built in gauge helps set the reveal of shingles & also has a blade to trim roofing felt & asphalt shingles. The retractable blade is adjustable for 4”, 5”, 5”-5/8” exposure and can be replaced after it dulls.
- BUILT FOR THE PRO – The optimal hammer for framers, roofers, carpenters, contractors, tradesman & serious DIYers.
Last update on 2023-06-12 at 16:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The hammer has a patented shock reduction grip that can reduce the grip by 70 percent, so you can protect your hand when hammering. It also uses American steel, which is a strong material.
This hammer is an excellent option for anyone needing a specialized hammer. It isn’t too big, and you can use it in all of your roofing work.
Final Thoughts
The best hammer for roofing comes from AJC or Estwing. Both companies make two excellent hammers that are durable, flexible, and perfect for professionals and amateurs. Keep those brands in mind next time you get a roofing hammer.
