A few things that might hinder the axe is Steel or Metal studs or concrete, In this case the K-12 tools may have to be used in place of the axe. Allot of your new building construction has metal roofs or even a concrete roof...Something to thank about when making entrance into the building or working on the roof...
On ordinary residential roofs with composite shingles, (we don't have tar and gravel) we tend to use the flat surface of the flat head axe to open the roof much as the 1st picture. As stated, the cutting edge does get caught. We find the flat head works easily in 1/2" to 5/8" roof decking.
Your right Oldman, I tried to find a picture of that technique but I'm sorry I cant provide one other then the pickhead axe picture...In most cases the flat head or sledge part works very well...Job well done brother...
Sand off the rust and apply a light coating of oil. Light machine oil is recommended.
They say you shouldn't paint the surface due to the possibility of hiding defects and also the cutting edge could stick and bind.
Sound about right?
Good video doug, yep, that is how I prefer it too. Although a sledge can do quick work to open a roof as well, but I understand this thread is about the axe.
As I understand this is a axe thread, a tool id like to bring into the conversation is the TNT tool.
While In general this tool is cool, and macho looking, I think its draw backs are the weight, and..oh yeah, the weight.
We tried the TNT tool on a roof for venting and it went OK. The person swinging has his mind set to use the tool because he adored it so much. He had about 10 swings and took a break. I brough up the flat head and we switched out and i went on a swinging!