Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Landscape Rake for a Perfect Outdoor Finish

Wilzave Quiles Guzmán
Sep 1
5 min read

When it comes to creating smooth, level, and beautiful outdoor spaces, the landscape rake is one of the most valuable tools you can have in your toolkit. Whether you’re preparing a new lawn, installing a garden bed, or spreading gravel for a patio project, knowing how to properly use a landscape rake ensures professional results every time.

At Deloya Masonry, we know that precision is key. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive step-by-step guide to help homeowners and landscaping professionals make the most of this powerful tool.

What is a Landscape Rake?

A landscape rake is a heavy-duty rake designed with wide, sturdy tines to move soil, gravel, sand, or debris across large areas. Unlike traditional garden rakes, landscape rakes are built for leveling surfaces, removing rocks, and preparing soil for seeding or sod installation.

Landscape rakes come in various forms, including handheld and tow-behind versions. They are commonly used in landscaping, lawn care, gardening, and hardscaping projects where precision and smooth finishes are required.

Types of Landscape Rakes

Before diving into the step-by-step process, it’s helpful to understand the different types of rakes available. Choosing the right tool will save you time and give you better results.

Handheld Landscape Rakes
- Lightweight and easy to use.
- Perfect for smaller areas, garden beds, and detailed finishing work.
- Ideal for spreading soil, mulch, or sand around patios and garden paths.
Bow Rakes (Garden Rakes)
- A type of handheld rake with shorter, curved tines.
- Useful for breaking up clumps of soil and spreading materials.
- Good for prepping small areas before planting.
Tow-Behind Landscape Rakes
- Attach to tractors, ATVs, or riding lawnmowers.
- Excellent for large areas such as gravel driveways, fields, or commercial projects.
- Speeds up soil leveling and debris removal on bigger properties.
Landscape Rock Rakes
- Specialized versions designed to move rocks and gravel efficiently.
- Great for preparing driveways or pathways with stone bases.

Step 1: Choose the Right Landscape Rake

The first step is selecting the proper landscape rake for your project. If you’re working on a backyard garden, a handheld rake may be all you need. If you’re tackling a large driveway, a tow-behind rake is the better option. Make sure the rake you choose matches the scale of the job.

Step 2: Prepare the Work Area

Before you start, clear away large branches, rocks, and other debris that could interfere with the raking process. A clean area allows the landscape rake to work more efficiently and prevents damage to the rake’s tines.

Pro Tip: If you’re working on a new lawn, lightly water the soil the day before. Moist soil is easier to level and reduces dust.

Step 3: Begin Raking in One Direction

Position your rake at the edge of the area and begin pulling it in smooth, even strokes. Always work in one consistent direction to collect debris and start leveling the surface. This ensures uniform results.

If you’re using a tow-behind rake, drive in straight passes across the yard or driveway, overlapping slightly with each pass.

Step 4: Level the Soil or Gravel

Once the debris is gathered, use your landscape rake to spread and level soil, sand, or gravel. The wide head of the rake ensures even coverage, reducing dips and high spots.

For gravel driveways, run the rake in alternating directions to avoid ridges. For lawns, aim for a flat, even finish to prepare for sod or seed.

Step 5: Refine the Surface

After leveling, go back over the area with lighter strokes. This final pass breaks down clumps of soil and leaves behind a smooth surface that’s perfect for planting or hardscape installation.

If laying sod, a smooth finish helps the sod sit evenly and root more effectively. If seeding, an even surface encourages uniform growth.

Step 6: Dispose of Debris

Your landscape rake will gather rocks, sticks, and roots. Collect this debris and dispose of it properly to prevent it from interfering with your landscaping project.

For larger projects, consider using a wheelbarrow to haul debris away more efficiently.

Step 7: Maintain Your Rake

A good landscape rake can last many years with proper care. After each use:

Rinse off dirt and soil from the tines.
Store it in a dry place to prevent rust.
For tow-behind models, check for loose bolts and lubricate moving parts.

Benefits of Using a Landscape Rake

Using a landscape rake is not just about making the job easier—it’s about achieving professional-quality results. Some of the main benefits include:

Time Savings: Rakes cover more ground in less time compared to hand tools.
Precision: Ensures smooth, level surfaces for sod, seed, or gravel.
Versatility: Works with soil, sand, gravel, mulch, and debris.
Professional Finish: Leaves outdoor spaces looking polished and well-prepared.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Landscape Rake

Raking in multiple directions – can create uneven surfaces. Stick to one direction.
Skipping debris removal – large rocks or branches can damage your rake and affect results.
Using the wrong rake size – small handheld rakes aren’t effective for large areas, and oversized rakes may be cumbersome in tight spaces.
Not checking grade or slope – make sure your surface slopes properly to prevent drainage issues.

FAQs About Landscape Rakes

1. Can I use a landscape rake on gravel driveways?Yes! Tow-behind rakes are excellent for leveling gravel and redistributing material evenly.

2. Do I need a landscape rake if I already own a garden rake?Yes. Garden rakes are smaller and not designed for leveling large areas. A landscape rake is sturdier and more efficient.

3. How often should I rake my yard with a landscape rake?It depends on your project. For soil prep, once before planting is enough. For gravel driveways, raking once or twice a season helps maintain a smooth surface.

4. Can I rent a landscape rake instead of buying one?Yes. Many equipment rental companies offer tow-behind rakes for short-term use.

5. How do I know if my soil is level enough?After raking, walk across the area. If you don’t feel bumps or dips, your soil is ready for planting or sod.

Final Thoughts

Mastering how to use a landscape rake will make your outdoor projects smoother, faster, and more effective. Whether you’re preparing a garden, installing sod, or leveling gravel, this versatile tool ensures a clean, polished finish.

At Deloya Masonry, we combine the right tools with expert craftsmanship to create beautiful outdoor spaces. From patios and driveways to custom landscaping projects, we’re here to help you achieve the results you’ve always envisioned.

Ready to transform your outdoor space? Contact Deloya Masonry today and let our team bring your vision to life.