If you’re looking for the best tools for cutting shingles, look no further. Here are our top picks for the best tools for cutting asphalt.
The best tool for cutting asphalt shingles
Why the pros love a good shingle-cutting tool
Cut shingles more easily and quickly
Good shingle-cutting tools can significantly improve the speed and efficiency of cutting shingles.
With the right tools, you can cut shingles more easily and quickly, which can save you a lot of time.
This is because the tools are made to cut shingles and are optimized for this task, making it easier to make precise cuts with less work.
Reduce the risk of injury
Another important benefit of good shingle-cutting tools is that they can reduce the risk of injury.
Sharp, sturdy tools make it easier to cut without using too much force or being in an awkward position. This helps prevent cuts, strains, and other injuries that are common when cutting by hand.
Also, most of these tools have ergonomic handles that are easy to hold and reduce hand strain and fatigue.
Get a more accurate cut
Good shingle-cutting tools also provide greater accuracy and control when cutting shingles.
This is because they have special hooks near the edge that help you get a more accurate cut. This is important to make sure that the shingles fit together tightly and give the roof a nice, weatherproof finish.
Save time and effort
Finally, good shingle-cutting tools can also save you time and effort by making it easier to control the cutting process.
With increased leverage, you can apply more force with less effort, making it easier to cut through tough shingles or materials.
Most of the time, these tools are made to be light and balanced, which makes them easier to use and reduces the amount of work needed to cut.
Considerations when choosing tools for cutting shingles
Type of shingle
When choosing tools for cutting shingles, think about the type of shingle you will be cutting.
Different types of shingles, such as asphalt, wood, or composite shingles, require different cutting tools and techniques.
For example, asphalt shingles tend to be softer and more flexible, which makes it easier to cut them with a utility knife or a tool with a straight edge.
Wood and composite shingles, on the other hand, are harder and denser, requiring specialized cutting tools with sharp blades that can handle the tougher material.
Size and thickness of the shingle
When choosing tools for cutting shingles, it’s also important to think about the size and thickness of the shingles.
In general, to cut shingles that are wider and thicker, you need bigger, stronger tools that can handle the extra size and weight.
However, shingles that are narrower and thinner can typically be cut with smaller, more compact cutting tools that are easier to maneuver.
Specific cutting tasks
When choosing tools for cutting shingles, you should think about the kind of cutting you will be doing.
For example, if you need to make precise cuts for custom patterns or designs, you may want to consider specialized cutting tools, such as a compass saw or a jigsaw, that offer greater precision and control.
But if you simply need to make straight cuts, a basic utility knife or a straight-edged shingle cutting tool may be all you need.
How to use a tool for cutting shingles
Step 1: Choose the right tool
Before cutting shingles, it’s important to choose the right tool for the job. As mentioned earlier, the type of shingle, size, and thickness of the shingle, as well as specific cutting tasks, will determine the best tool to use.
A roofing blade or a utility knife are common choices for cutting asphalt shingles.
Step 2: Determine how much to cut
Next, determine how much of the shingle needs to be cut. This can be done by measuring the desired length and marking the shingle with a pencil or a straight edge.
Step 3: Hold the blade and shingle at a proper angle
When cutting, it’s important to hold the blade and shingle at the proper angle to ensure a clean, straight cut. The ideal angle for cutting shingles varies based on the specific tool being used and the type of shingle.
Step 4: Apply pressure as needed
Once the blade and shingle are in place, apply pressure as needed to make the cut. You need to apply enough pressure to cut through the shingle, but not so much pressure that the blade slips or the shingle is damaged.
Step 5: Cut
Finally, make the cut by slowly and smoothly moving the blade along the marked line. Repeat this process as necessary until all of the shingles have been cut to the desired size.
What type of cutting blade is best for cutting shingles?
Circular saws
Circular saws can be a good choice for cutting large quantities of shingles, as they are fast and efficient. However, they are not ideal for precise cuts and can damage the shingles if not used properly.
Utility knives
Utility knives, like box cutters, can be used to cut smaller amounts of shingles, especially if the cuts need to be precise. They are easy to control but can be time-consuming for larger cutting tasks.
Roofing blades with hooks
Roofing blades with hooks are specialized cutting tools designed for cutting asphalt shingles. They feature a hooked blade that allows for precise cuts while also reducing the risk of injury.
Tin snips
Tin snips are commonly used for cutting metal roofing, but they can also be used for cutting some types of shingles. They are ideal for precise cuts and can handle thicker, heavier shingles.
Pneumatic cutters
Pneumatic cutters are high-powered cutting tools that use compressed air to make cuts. They are fast and efficient but can be expensive and difficult to control. They are typically used in industrial and commercial applications, but can also be used for cutting shingles.
What types of shingle materials can be cut with a shingle cutter?
The best cutting blade to use and the right way to cut shingles will depend on the type of shingle material. Here’s a more detailed explanation of each type of shingle material:
Asphalt shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of shingle material and can be cut with a variety of tools, including roofing blades with hooks, utility knives, and pneumatic cutters.
The thickness of the shingle will determine the best cutting tool as well as the proper cutting technique.
Fiberglass shingles
Fiberglass shingles are a newer type of shingle material that is becoming increasingly popular. They can be cut with utility knives, roofing blades with hooks, and pneumatic cutters.
Metal roofing
Some types of metal roofing can be cut with tin snips or pneumatic cutters. The thickness and type of metal roofing will determine the best blade and cutting technique.
When cutting metal roofing, you need to be very careful to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and rules. If you don’t, you could damage the shingles or void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Wood shingles
Wood shingles can be cut with a variety of tools, including utility knives, circular saws, and handsaws.
The thickness of the shingle will determine the best cutting tool and cutting technique.
Slate shingles
Slate shingles can be hard to cut, and you might need a pneumatic cutter or a saw with a diamond blade to do it.
Clay or concrete shingles
Clay or concrete shingles can be heavy and difficult to cut, but can be done with specialized cutting tools, such as a pneumatic cutter or diamond blade saw.
What is the difference between a shingle shear and a roof cutter?
A shingle shear is a specialized tool used for cutting asphalt shingles. It typically features two large blades that are pushed together to cut through the shingle material.
Shingle shears are designed for use on the roof and are often used by roofing professionals because they allow for quick, accurate cuts.
A roof cutter, also known as a “roofing cutter,” is a more versatile cutting tool that can be used to cut a variety of roofing materials, including shingles, roof decking, and roofing felt.
Roof cutters often feature a large blade that rotates to make the cut, and some models may have adjustable blades for different cutting depths.
Roof cutters are often used by roofing professionals because they are versatile and can handle a range of cutting tasks.
The main difference between a shingle shear and a roof cutter is their design and intended use.
A shingle shear is specialized for cutting asphalt shingles, while a roof cutter is more versatile and can handle a range of cutting tasks on different roofing materials.
How do you use a hook-type blade to cut asphalt shingles?
The benefit of the hook design on the blade is that it helps to grip the shingle material, preventing it from slipping or shifting while cutting.
This makes for a more accurate and precise cut, which makes it less likely that the shingles will get damaged and saves time and effort.
The hook design helps to keep the blade in place, reducing the risk of injury to the user.
Here is a step-by-step process for using a hook-type blade to cut asphalt shingles:
- Choose the right tool for cutting shingles: Make sure to select a hook-type blade that is designed specifically for cutting asphalt shingles.
- Determine how much to cut: Measure the length of the cut needed and mark the shingle accordingly.
- Hold the blade and shingle at a proper angle: Hold the blade at a slight angle and place the hooked end of the blade over the shingle at the marked cutting line.
- Apply pressure as needed: Apply pressure to the blade while maintaining the proper angle to make the cut.
- Cut: Use a sawing motion to make the cut, ensuring that the hooked end of the blade remains in place on the shingle.
Are there any special considerations when cutting fiberglass shingles?
Yes, there are special considerations when cutting fiberglass shingles. Fiberglass shingles are more fragile and brittle than asphalt shingles, so they need to be handled more carefully and cut with a sharp blade so they don’t break or crack.
Take extra care when making cuts near the edges of the shingles to avoid damaging the underlying material.
Also, cutting fiberglass shingles can be harmful to your health.
During the cutting process, fiberglass particles can get into the air and irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs if they are not handled properly.
To avoid getting too close to fiberglass particles, it is best to wear gloves, goggles, and a mask.
Can you cut shingles with an angle grinder?
Power tools that oscillate, like the popular multi-tools, can be used for a variety of cutting and sanding jobs.
When using an oscillating tool to cut shingles, choose the right blade for the job, as some blades may be more suitable for cutting certain types of shingles.
Care must be taken to avoid damaging the shingles and to maintain control of the tool while making the cut.
Oscillating tools can be useful for making precise cuts in tight spaces or cutting shingles to a specific size, but they may not be as good as roofing tools for making larger cuts or cutting thicker shingles.
How much do shingle cutters cost?
The cost of shingle cutters can vary widely depending on the type of tool and its features.
A basic utility knife or roofing blade with a hook can cost anywhere from $5 to $20, while more specialized shingle shears or roofing snips can cost between $50 and $150.
High-end, heavy-duty roofing cutters that are designed for commercial use can cost several hundred dollars.
The cost of a shingle cutter will also depend on factors such as the brand, blade quality, and durability of the tool.
Pick a tool that fits your needs and budget, taking into account factors such as the type of shingles you will be cutting, the frequency of use, and your level of experience using power tools.
Other interesting articles: