Effective Raking Techniques

Raking can be arduous task when not done properly. If you don’t have a leaf blower, you either rake your leaves or let the elements take care of them.

It all starts with the right conditions.

Prep

You will need:

1. An ergonomic rake – This type of rake will help minimize strain to your back and shoulders.

2. Slow wind day – You don’t want to expend extra effort raking the same piles over and over. If you have no choice but to rake on a windy day, rake with the wind, not against it.

3. Long sleeve clothing and long pants  Bugs, animals, or trash may be mixed in the leaves. Long clothing minimizes your risks of being bitten or scraped.

4. Wait till all the leaves fall – This goes with point #2, you want to conserve your energy for one thorough job.

Execution

• Use small motions.
• Switch hands.
• Take plenty of breaks.
• Drink water.
• Rake on to a tarp or plastic for easier transport.