Snow, ice, and chilly temperatures may not seem like a great environment for a roof replacement project, but it is entirely possible to replace your roof in the winter. Due to the high amount of moisture that occurs in winter, many homeowners experience problems like leaky roofs. If the roof is old or severely damaged, waiting until spring or summer to complete the replacement may not be a viable option. What it is normal to be cautious about undergoing a roof replacement in the winter, the consensus is clear. Can you replace a roof in the winter? Yes, absolutely.
There is no denying that winter roofing can be dangerous. However, when completed by experienced professionals, replacing your roof in the winter is no big deal. Roof replacement contractors use special safety equipment to prevent injuries, as well as quality materials designed to withstand cold temperatures. For the average roofing professional, winter roof replacements are just another part of the job. It is not just shingles that can be replaced in the winter. All types of roofing materials can be replaced when it is cold outside, such as metal, stone-coated steel, slate, and rubber.
What To Know About Roof Replacement In The Winter
Do not let winter weather stop you from getting the roof replacement your home needs. By waiting until warmer weather comes around, you risk your home suffering from more extensive and expensive repairs down the road. Over time, leaks in your roof can result in issues like wood rot, mold growth, and deterioration of roofing materials. Holes in your roof can also allow critters like birds, squirrels, and rodents into your home, causing even more damage. Regardless of the season, replacing your roof when it needs it is a wise idea. Replacing your roof in the winter can actually have some major benefits, including the following:
Sealants Bond Better
One of the biggest benefits of undergoing a roof replacement in the winter is the stronger bond between your shingles and roof. If you plan to use asphalt shingles on your new roof, you will be glad to know that the sealant used for asphalt shingles bonds better during the winter than in the summer. In the summer, asphalt shingles automatically seal due to the amount of heat present. In the winter, shingles are individually sealed by the roofer. This can result in a stronger seal that lasts longer.
Replacement Is Completed Quicker
By replacing your roof in the winter, homeowners can also take advantage of a quicker project timeline. As most people wait until the spring or summer to replace their roof, roof replacement contractors are often very busy during these seasons. It is not unusual to have to wait weeks or even months to have your project completed. However, not as many people opt to have their roof replaced in the winter. This means you can have your roof replacement done much more quickly as your contractor will likely have more room on his schedule to accommodate your needs.
Same Quality Of Work Performed
There is a common misconception that roof replacement projects conducted during the winter will result in a lower quality of work performed. This is simply not true. In fact, a roof replacement contractor will provide the same level of quality or perhaps even a better level of quality as he will not feel rushed to get to the next job. In no way does weather impact the work performed by professional roof replacement contractors, meaning your roof will be replaced in a timely manner with the proper techniques and high-quality materials. Roofers have the proper tools and equipment needed to work in all types of outdoor conditions, even frigid winter weather.
Determine Whether You Need A Roof Replacement Or Roof Repair
It is not always easy to determine whether your roof truly needs to be replaced or if some repairs will do the trick. If you are unsure of the condition of your roof, speak to a professional roofing contractor about your concerns. You will also want to schedule an evaluation performed by a contractor to determine whether you need a roof replacement or just roof repairs. There are a number of signs that could also indicate the need for roof repair, including the following:
- Shingle edges that are curled or shingle tabs that appear cupped.
- Cracks or tears in the shingles.
- Bald spots on the shingles which indicate that granules are missing.
- Dark streaks where airborne algae have spread over your roof.
- Your roof appears old and worn, and is over 15 years old.
- Neighbors are getting new roofs if your homes were built around the same time.
- Seals around flashing are cracked or broken.
- You can see light through gaps in your attic ceiling.
- Your roof has required frequent repairs over the last few years.
The typical asphalt shingle roof will last between 15 and 25 years, depending on your location, the level of maintenance you provide your roof, and similar factors. If your roof is close to reaching these numbers or has surpassed them, then a roof replacement is likely in your future. If you have more than one layer of shingles on your roof currently, you will also want to have your roof replaced instead of simply adding another layer of shingles.
Contact The Professional Roof Replacement Contractors
You will often find most homeowners making major roof repairs and replacements during the spring and summer months. While this is the most common trend, it does not mean that winter roof replacements do not happen. Aside from the need to wear warmer clothing, installing a roof in the winter is just as simple as it is the summer. If you are experiencing a leak in your roof or similar problems that are causing damage to your home’s structure or interior, do not wait until spring to get your roof fixed. For more information about replacing roofs in the winter or to schedule a free roof consultation, contact the professional roof replacement contractors at Beyond Exteriors.