Working on a roof can be dangerous and expensive. The danger from slipping and falling is obvious. Whether you are an experienced roofer doing new roofs or repairs, or a solar panel installer, house painter, chimney sweep or doing termite tenting, the roof is a big part of your livelihood. Protecting yourself and your customer’s roof are paramount to ensuring your good reputation and gaining the most out of your profit margin.
There has been a lot of buzz surrounding a product called the Pitch Hopper due to it’s ability to provide a secure platform on steep pitched roofs. The Pitch Hopper does a very nice job, when used properly, to give the roofer a secure wedged platform to work from, which can ease the pressure on your back and legs making it more comfortable to do your job and become more productive.
Inspired by an adjustable-angle tree stand, the Pitch Hopper creates a comfortable, stable surface to work on asphalt shingles. It uses a foam pad to adhere to asphalt shingles. The superior grip surface and easy grab handles on both sides, enable your crew to easily navigate around the roof. Its unique wedge shape features one side for lower pitch, and one steeper pitch, allowing for easy usage and maximum comfort.
Pitch Hopper specs and sizes
The company claims that the Pitch Hopper has been lab tested to hold over 3,000 lbs (about 1,360 kg) on a single hopper. Its unique patented design is said to reduce fatigue and increase productivity by providing a level working surface on steep slopes. The tool is available in two sizes – 24 inch and 32 inch.
Both sizes are available as an Original Series or Silver Series product. The Silver Series absorbs less heat than the Original Series, giving you a cooler working surface in warmer climates. The color is the other difference, which provides greater visibility while operating and makes it less likely to be left behind at job site after a long day.
How to use the Pitch Hopper
In order to elongate the life of your Pitch Hopper, the manufacturers suggest to center your weight, and avoid stepping on the corners and edges. Here are a few other suggestions / tips from the company on how to use the roof wedge:
- Place the Pitch Hopper on the roof with the working surface parallel to the shingle line
- Keep weight centered while standing or kneeling on the hopper
- Keep both feet on the roof wedge at all times
- Ensure that proper fall protection and safety equipment are being used at all times
- Check your Pitch Hopper for any dirt, debris or any damage before use
A variety of applications
- Roof install / repair
- Siding installation / cleaning
- Gutter repair
- HVAC services
- Painters
- Hold tools, material
- Handy man services
- Window repair / cleaning
- Bat / pest control
- Wildlife industry / critter control
- Security installation
- Light installation / decoration
- Roof access from ladder
- Insurance
- Solar panel installation
- Chimney cleaning, repair, cap install
Pricing and availability
You can order the Pitch Hopper roof wedge online via their company website. The Original Series 32 inch single hopper costs $112 while the Silver Series counterpart is priced at $127.
Source: Pitch Hopper
