djthx

It's a great time saving technique that can only be achieved by a proficient crane operator. The fact the he didn't scathe the felt indicates that the crane's shovel never actually makes contact with the sheathing. All you really need to be careful with is to make sure you carefully and accurately grab the bottom cedar shingles. Since the subsequent shingles are on top, they'll be scooped up with less required precision.

However, I don't think it would be as easy to remove slate shingles, and it will be impossible to remove fiberglass shingles this way.