home improvement | What is a Power Rake and How to Use a Power Rake?

What is a Power Rake and How to Use a Power Rake?

When your lawn is struggling with a too deep layer of thatch, it is a good idea to remove some of it with a power rake. Thatch is made up of dead and living grass, roots, leaves and other debris that collect directly on top of the soil. It can be hard to notice, but as it builds up, it blocks root access to air, nutrients and water, making the grass more drought intolerant and less weed-resistant. When the thatch layer is ½-1 inch deep, consider dethatching with a power rake dethatcher. It is definitely needed if the thatch is deeper than 1 inch.

Begin by calling rental stores that have power lawn rakes to ask about availability, rates and policies. Expect to pay around $60-$75 for a four-hour rental and $100-$125 for eight-hours. In spring and fall (typically the best times to dethatch), demand will be higher and typically will be increased on weekends, so call in advance during these busy times to make sure a machine will be available when you need it. If you are want to rent a specific brand to try out one before buying or because you want to use one from a certain company, ask if you can specifically reserve a particular machine rather than just whichever one is available. Good dethatchers to look into include the Bluebird power rake and the Arnold Universal power rake.


Before picking up your rented lawn power rake, have your lawn and all the other things you will need ready to go. To get the best results from power rakes, the turf should be free of any obstacles, soft but not too wet and mowed short. This improves the dethatching job. Have your safety gear easily accessible: eyewear to protect from flying debris, earphones to dampen the loud noise of the machine (especially if you will be raking for a long time), and sturdy shoes. Have fuel and oil available if it is needed.

Bring a friend to the rental store to help you transport the power rake or power dethatcher since they are heavy. If you need help with the correct tine height and spacing, have someone at the rental store show you how to do it. Be sure to ask any questions about the safe and proper use of the machine before you leave.

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