Leaf Removal: Rake Buying Guide
By ProMatcher Staff
Finding the Best Rake
You may think that all rakes are essentially the same, but there are some key differences that set some rakes apart. Once you arrive at the store, every rake might look exactly the same. Use the list below to determine what type of rake might work best for you.
1. Rake Width and Shape
Rakes come in a variety of widths. For raking leaves, a wide surface is best for capturing as many leaves as possible with one stroke. However, a smaller rake may be more effective at navigated tight garden beds. Some rakes have an expanding feature where you can change the fan size as the need changes.
You'll want to make sure that the rake's tines are not spaced too far apart to prevent the smaller leaves from escaping. Rakes with wider spaces are better for tilling soil.
2. Rake Handle
If you're tall, you'll want to look for a longer handle. People who are not-so-tall may want to find a rake with an adjustable handle. Handles are most typically made of wood, fiberglass, and aluminum. You should expect to pay more for specialty wood handles.
3. Rake Material
Rakes tines are typically made of plastic, bamboo, or metal. Bamboo rakes can be very fragile but work well in good condition. Metal rakes are very durable, but they may rust over time. Plastic rakes come in many different shapes and sizes. They are lightweight, but they are also vulnerable to cracking.
4. Brands of Rakes
At the hardware store, you will encounter a number of different brands of leaf rakes. Here is a short list of some of the most commonly found brands: Bond, Ames, Cavex, Fiskars, Nupla, HDX, and Razor-Back.
Related: Top Brands of Leaf Blowers
5. Special features
Some rakes may have ergonomic, grip handles or special pivoting heads. Other leaf rakes claim to be "clog-free". Some rakes are designed for specific areas, such as thatch rakes and shrub rakes. Your best bet is to read online reviews of the rake or ask a pro at the store.
6. Rake Tines
The tines of the rake can be shaped different ways. Tines can be straight or curved. Some are bent only slightly to provide additional grip and others are bent into sharp right angles.
Double Check:
Keep in mind how long you would like the rake to last. Typically, the cheaper the rake, the shorter life it will have. Spending a few extra dollars may get you a rake that lasts years longer.
Related: Leaf Raking vs. Leaf Blowing
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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