Can You Replace a Roof in the Winter?
When temperatures drop, it’s common to suddenly notice issues with your current roof. It may be something small and simple like missing or loose shingles, or perhaps it’s something larger such as melting snow dripping into your home. If you’re experiencing something like this, you may be thinking that winter and roof replacement are not compatible, but you’re mistaken! Let’s take a look at some key components to winter roof replacement.
Technique is Important
Given the more extreme weather conditions in the wintertime, it’s important to employ proper techniques to ensure the roof lasts as long as possible. For the best outcome, it’s important to utilize the following techniques:
Warm Shingles- The first thing to be sure of is that the roof shingles stay warm leading up to installation. This can be easily achieved by storing them in a heated warehouse or garage leading up to delivery.
Proper Sealing- Proper sealing is imperative to successful cold weather installation. This may mean the shingles are sealed by hand with a quality roofing cement or other similar adhesive. This is a crucial step and great care must be taken.
Issues With Roofing Installation in the Winter
Ideal installation temperatures fall between 40 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything cooler and you run the risk of cracking shingles, so it’s important that the shingles never actually get to a temperature below 40F. This means waiting to do an installation until the temperatures are above that, but you’ll be happy you did when your roof does not require immediate repairs due to damaged shingles.
Another temperature factor is in the self-adhering shingles. They do not stick as well in cooler temps, so it’s important that it be a bit warmer out when application occurs. However, if you’re thinking you can bypass these issues by simply not using self-adhesive or asphalt shingles, you may want to think twice.
This comes from the inherent risks involved in using materials outside of asphalt for roofing. Fiberglass shingles can easily fracture during an installation in the cold, and quick drops in temperature can cause breaks.
Is There a Positive Side to Winter Installation?
Regardless of the aforementioned obstacles, it is 100% reasonable to replace a roof in the winter–especially if you need to. It’s also important to note that rates will be great due to it being a slow season for roofers.
What if I Only Need Maintenance?
Even if you don’t require a total roof replacement, you might need some repairs or basic maintenance performed. First of all, you must be extremely careful when walking on cold shingles because they can easily break. Additionally, walking around on the roof can break your sealant bond, so be prepared to seal them again if they start peeling.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to roofing in the wintertime, it can be best to reach out to the professionals for help. Don’t hesitate to contact Trademark Exteriors to come take a look and give you a hand!
