Can You Replace Your Roof in the Winter?
When you need to replace your roof, but an emergency doesn’t necessitate having it done immediately, it can be a no-brainer to wait for temperatures to be warmer for the task. Sometimes, however, roof repairs won’t wait for winter’s inclement weather to be in the rearview. The question then becomes, are simple repairs an option, or is home roof replacement something that can be done in winter?
The short answer is, yes it is possible. The long answer, however, involves proper precautions and an even better attention to detail when selecting a home roof contractor.
Optimal Conditions
Ideally, temperatures are best for the replacement of an asphalt roof when it’s between 40 and 85 degrees. Asphalt shingles, even very high quality ones, are susceptible to breaking or cracking even between those temperatures, and when they dip below 40 degrees it’s even more likely to happen. The adhesive strip backing that needs to stick also has a hard time performing correctly below 40 degrees.
The easy answer then seems to be opting for another material. However, like so many other things, as temperatures approach freezing and below, the cold can wreak havoc with them all. Fiberglass shingles are also finicky to work with at cold temps.
That’s not to say that winter roof replacement isn’t an option. It’s just important that certain precautions are taken, and that the work is done by an experienced professional who knows how to handle and work with the materials in winter conditions.
One of the easiest ways to mitigate problems with the roofing material is having a warm garage or shed in which the shingles can be stored. If they can be kept as warm as possible until they are needed on the roof, that can make a big difference in their ability to be applied safely.
Cost Considerations
While extra precautions and material changes may exacerbate the cost of winter home roof replacement, there is one factor working in your favor. The roofing business is typically slow in the winter, so you may find that roof contractors can offer a slightly better deal, and they may be more readily available to start your project right away.
Winter conditions can be tough to work through, however. It’s not just the cold that roof contractors need to be concerned with, but also ice and snow that may be present on your roof. Work will be slower, as the need to work safely necessitates. Slippery conditions may exist, and snow and ice may need to be regularly cleared so work can continue.
Tools necessary for home roof replacement may also not function as well, meaning your roof contractor may need to monitor its performance more closely, making sure air nailers are driving nails to the proper depth, and so on.
Winter conditions are certainly no time for DIY roof repairs. If you find yourself in need of home roof repair or replacement anytime of the year, contact us today. We have the knowledge and experience roofing in Northwest Ohio and understand the ins and outs of winter roof replacement.