Abstract: Apparatus for removing an outer layer, or covering, such as of shingles from a flat surface such as a roof includes a frame with an elongated, linear cutting blade attached to a lower, forward portion thereof and adapted for displacement along and in contact with the roof. The apparatus further includes a blade drive arrangement for displacing the blade in a reciprocating manner along its length and parallel to the roof. Also attached to a forward portion of the frame immediately above the blade is a concave, upward extending deflector for directing the removed shingles forward of the apparatus as it is displaced over the roof. A handle extends from the frame to facilitate manual displacement of the apparatus over the roof as the roofing nails, or other attachment means, are served by the blade in removing the shingles from the roof.