Heated Utility Knife

Story Behind the Invention

Inventor Anthony Joseph LaMartina of Rochester, NY has designed a construction knife that features an integral butane heating system, which allows users to easily cut through asphalt shingles and other materials.

A typical day in the roofing business involves carrying heavy loads, enduring high temperatures, and climbing steep roofs. One task associated with roofing is the cutting of asphalt shingles with a utility knife, which is actually a major portion of all work. Any roofing contractor will tell you that warm shingles are much easier to cut than cold shingles. This is due to the physical nature of the materials used. In fact, some roofing contractors have been known to heat their utility knives with a propane torch or other heating source just to make the cutting process easier. However, propane torches are often not available or within easy reach during each and every cutting task. Inventor LaMartina has created a means by which utility knives can be easily heated so that roof shingles can be cut with ease.

This clever new invention features a retractable blade, a push-button electronic lighter and a refillable butane tank. Additionally, extra blades can be stored in the handle, which makes blades readily available if one were to break. The invention is ideal for use by roofing contractors, but can be used in other fields of construction. The use of the Heated Utility Knife provides users the ability to easily cut through asphalt shingles and other materials in a manner which is quick, easy, and effective.