What is the Rake of a Roof?

What is the Rake of a Roof

The sloping edge stretched right from the eaves to the ridge of the roof is known to be the rake of the roof (part of any gabled roof). This portion usually overhangs the structure’s sidewalls in order to practically protect it from weather elements like rain or wind. Essentially, the rake of the roof can either be decorative, functional, or both. The homeowners must not confuse the rake of a roof with a handheld roof rake; both are two different things.

Rake of a Roof Rake Roof 
The exposed portion or area of a gabled roof covers the roof from top to edge.  A tool particularly used to remove the collected snow from the roof.

Manufacturers utilize a variety of materials to build your desired rake of the roof, depending on the structure’s roof suitability. It can either be made up of cedar, PVC, concrete, pine, or smartboards or metal. Let us discuss the answer to “What is the rake of a roof?” in detail, along with a few related crucials.

Purpose of the Rake of a Roof

The rake of a roof acts as a barrier to prevent moisture from entering the structure through gaps or crevices. In addition, a well-installed rake ensures that water slips down the roof straight outwards and not inside your home. Want to know what’s more? 

  • It prevents insects, animals, or pests from entering your roof. 
  • It keeps your roof protected from moisture and water infiltration. 
  • It evenly distributes the weight to prevent stress points on the roof. 
  • It significantly contributes to the style and aesthetic of your house. 

The Types of Rakes of a Roof

There are three common types of Rakes of a roof, all of which can be designed or styled according to your structure. 

  • Closed Rake: Most popular in cottages and sheds, designed to cover the rake with protective and high-quality material fully. 
  • Exposed Rake: In this type the eaves framing is left to be visible to match the overhang. Usually, a rake boarding or soffit is used to create an exposed rake. 
  • Overhanging Rake: Last but not least, Overhanging rake is rather an extended rake of a roof, which has an intricate soffit and is wider in structure.

Parts of the Rake of a Roof

Next up are the parts of a rake of a roof, which collectively make the rake functional & protective. Here’s the list: 

  • Eaves: The edges that stretch beyond the exterior walls of your house are known as the edges. The roof rake connects these edges on both sides of the slope. House owners usually beautify the eaves by adding plants, installing lights, and much more to the section.
  • Drip Edge: The drip edge covers the edges, overlapping the rake board. This is to protect the roof from water or moisture infiltration. You have the option to choose from a variety of materials, such as aluminum, galvanized steel, or sturdy metal, to create a drip edge.
  • Rake Board: A rake board resembles a fascia board. However, unlike the latter, it covers the exposed rake of a roof. The end of the rafters are attached to the rake board, forming a front. You can either go with a high-contrast color or just get done a traditional wooden look for this one. An option to get a metal look is also there. 
  • Starter Shingles: Large and plain shingles are usually installed around the perimeter of the rooftop to secure the shingle rows. It plays a significant role in the installation of shingles.

Issues with the Rake of a Roof 

The rake of a roof is quite vulnerable and prone to potential weather damage and specific issues. These can contribute to major inconveniences and added expenses, not to mention the compromise on the roof’s integrity. 

While the rake board does its best to protect the roof from water and moisture infiltration, the rake is still prone to damage from rain, snow, humidity, etc. It is also vulnerable to ice dams during the winters, which, if not inspected and maintained regularly, can lead your rake to leak. 

Rake boards are also helpful in protecting your home from pests, insects, and animals who could crawl over your roof into your home. If you leave your roof unattended from pest infestation, the next thing you will see is extensive damage to the very main line of defense that you created. 

So, don’t forget to give a little but important thought to this part of your rake of the roof. If you are unable to inspect by yourself or are unknown of the potential damages, it’s best that you connect with the roofing professionals and get services from the experts. The agents at ManageMyRoof take a good look into your rake to identify the damage (if there’s any) and provide you with the right solution. 

Key Considerations When Deciding for the Rake of a Roof 

Installing and styling the rake of a roof is quite an interesting task. However, as exciting as it may sound, it still requires a keen eye for the details. You can’t just install any type of rake on the roof available in the market. After all, the aesthetics and quality material are something to give a thought to, as well. 

1. Aesthetics 

You have to be extremely selective when deciding the type of rake of a roof you want your rooftop to be topped with. The one you decide to put on must match and compliment the aesthetic and harmony of your house. It must align with the architectural design and style of your very own home. So, whenever you are on the hunt for a perfect rake, just match the styles, colors, designs, materials, elements, and whatever else there could be. Make sure that all the minors to majors fit well with your structure’s trims, columns, sidings, and other exteriors. 

2. Right Materials

Choosing the wrong materials is completely off-putting, as you have to change and replace them in a short time span due to damage. Local climate and the style of your home play a significant role in deciding the type of material you should choose to form the rake of your roof. If you reside in an area that has high humidity, cedar and vinyl might be excellent options for you. Aluminum gets you that glossy and modern finish if you want to ditch the traditional rake look. Connecting with a roof installation professional will help you select the type of material that best suits your structure. 

3. Proper Ventilation

The most important thing while installing a rake on your roof is ventilation. You won’t like your rake completely obstructing the ways through which you feel fresh and not suffocated. Smooth airflow is what your roof and home deserve; it’s what you should provide and leave space for. It is a key to maintaining your attic very well. So, whenever you call in a professional for assistance, make sure to discuss this thing with him and get in the loop with the procedure as well. This will ensure that you get a healthy attic. 

4. Professional Installation

Although one can always DIY the rake of a roof, however, it’s better to bring in the professionals. After all, the talk is about your safety, proper installation, and alignment. A professional roofer, like the ones at ManageMyRoof, can get the job done for you. As they have the expertise and proper knowledge about the hooks and crooks of all types of roofs out there, you won’t regret calling them in. Not only will they help with the installation, but they will also help you decide the right material and select the suitable styling. 

Style Rake of a Roof without Compromising on Functionality

The rake of your roof is more than just a decorative piece that compliments your roof; it has its functionality. It keeps your roof away from water and moisture infiltration, ensures proper ventilation and insulation, and adds value to your structure by extending the life of the roof. And, as all these aspects are discussed, let’s consider the factors you must not have given a thought to. Let’s style your roof: 

  • Architecture: Brackets and Frieze boards are something you must get your hands on if, at all, you are looking ahead to enhance your rake’s physical appearance. 
  • A bit of Greenery: Hanging plants in the rake of your roof not only gives it a lively look but also helps in keeping your surroundings as fresh as new. 
  • Lights and Lights: Who doesn’t love lights, especially in the outer and upper areas of your home? Installing lights in the rake gives you that proper cafe-like vibe when you finally decide on an evening tea with your loved ones sitting outside your home. 
  • Colors and Tints: Never go with a dull and dusty color for your rake; select vibrant ones. This is very important, especially when you want that particular area to be the focal point of your house. It significantly impacts the outdoor area. 

Last but not least, you must decide your budget beforehand. Whatever you may like to get done, make sure you have taken an estimate of how much it is going to cost. If need be, you can consider getting in touch with the Best Roofers at ManageMyRoof and have an idea.

Time to Bring in the Professionals of ManageMyRoof 

Now that we have covered everything from tip to toe of “What is a rake on a roof” you must have understood its importance. Next up, if you want to get an idea of how things are going to run down for you or want to hire a professional who could just do it the way you like, maybe you could invest your time with us. We are ManageMyRoof–here to provide you with the best roofing solutions. 

Answers to Queries!

1. What is the rake of a roof?

The rake of a roof refers to the sloped edge extending from the eaves to the ridge. It’s the part of the roof that overhangs the building’s sidewalls.

2. What is a rake on a roof?

The sloping edge from the eaves to the ridge often features trim or fascia boards for both aesthetic and protective functions.

3. What is a rake edge on a roof?

The rake edge is the sloped edge of a gable roof extending from the ridge down to the eaves.

4. What is rake trim on a metal roof?

Rake trim on a metal roof is a piece of flashing that protects and finishes the rake edge, preventing water from infiltrating the roof system and improving aesthetics.

5. What is rake trim on a roof?

This refers to the protective and decorative trim installed along the rake edges of a roof.

6. What is the rake part of a roof?

The rake part of a roof is the edge that runs from the ridge to the eave, often sloping and overhanging the sidewalls.

7. What is the difference between an eave and a rake?

Eaves are horizontal roofs, and rakes are sloped overhanging sections that stretch right from the eaves to the peak of the roof. 

8. What is the difference between a gable and a rake?

Gable refers to the triangular portion of a wall between the edges of a sloping roof. Rake is the sloping edge of a gable roof that runs from the eaves to the ridge. 

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