Streamlining rooftop repair work

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Battery-powered heat guns are helping contractors complete repairs more efficiently by eliminating the need for rooftop power access. 

At the International Roofing Expo (IRE) in Las Vegas, a common jobsite constraint came into focus: access to power. For contractors performing service and repair work, particularly on roofs with limited accessibility, the process of running power adds time, labor and complexity to otherwise straightforward tasks. That challenge is driving interest in cordless solutions like Leister’s Nexheat 300 A-LP battery-powered heat gun. Speaking with Karen Edwards on The Coffee Shops™ sound stage, Dave Nordentoft said the tool was developed to meet a clear need for mobility without compromising performance. “There's a big need in the marketplace for this type of product, for service and repair uses especially,” Dave said. “We wanted to make sure that we did it right and brought a tool out that was really going to do the job and be a true welding tool.” 

The impact is most evident in small, time-sensitive repairs. Tasks such as flashing work or pipe boot installation may require only a short amount of welding, yet the effort to establish power can outweigh the repair itself. By removing that requirement, cordless technology allows crews to access the roof, complete the work and transition to the next job with fewer delays. As Dave explained, “This flexibility, to have the right tool to get up there, get it done and move on to the next project is really labor-saving.” 

Battery performance remains a key consideration in the field. According to Dave, the tool operates for about 14 minutes per battery at top temperature, with slightly longer run times achievable at lower settings. The ability to power the unit down between tasks without affecting the heating element also gives contractors greater control over battery usage throughout the day. 

Equally important is battery accessibility. Leister designed the tool to operate on standardized, commercially available batteries rather than a proprietary system. Dave noted, “It's a standardized battery. It's not proprietary. We didn't want to pin someone in a corner with a proprietary battery system.” 

Together, these features reflect a broader shift toward efficiency in roofing service work — reducing setup requirements, improving mobility and enabling crews to complete repairs without unnecessary interruption. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about cordless heat welding solutions!