Despite what some people believe, roofing is a year-round trade. Customers often ask us if roofing can be done in the winter. Sometimes it absolutely should be done in the winter, but it truly depends.
Roof work can be split into two major categories, roof repairs and roof replacements.
Roof Repairs
Any necessary roof repair should be addressed year-round. While shingles self-adhere best in warmer temperatures, we use specialized caulking to ensure a secure seal when it’s too cold for immediate adhesion.
Ignoring broken or missing shingles during winter can turn a small issue into a costly crisis. Snow poses a significant threat: as it piles up, the layer closest to your roof can melt, allowing water to seep through damaged areas. This leads to serious water damage to drywall and other parts of your home. Left unchecked all winter, you’ll likely face far more expensive roof repairs. Snow is often more damaging than rain for a compromised roof because melting snow allows water more time to seep into your roofing system.
If your roof needs repair and snow season is approaching, it’s time to act. Our team is equipped and actively repairing roofs throughout the winter to prevent these exact issues.
Roof Replacements
Most often, new roofs can be installed in the winter, but you must use knowledgeable, skilled roofers like the roofers at Sunrise Roofing & Chimney.
Shingle Roofs
New shingle roof installations can be done at above freezing temperatures during the winter, so long as the roofer is experienced and knowledgeable in colder weather installations. The pressure on the nail gun needs to be set correctly. This is because the Spring weather will come along and cause the self-adhering shingles to continue to adhere together. The installation has to be done mindfully to prepare for that. If you use roofers who are thoughtful and experienced in this area, your new shingle roof will be installed just as beautifully and reliably in the winter as it could in any other season.
Flat Roofs
Some flat roofs that use “self-adhering” systems can only be installed at higher temperatures as determined by the manufacturer’s instructions. However, flat roofing systems that are not self-adhering (they either use torches or are mechanically attached) can be done in cold weather.
Other roofing systems like metal, slate, composites, and cedar shake are held together by fasteners and do not self-adhere; therefore, the installation of these types of roofs is the same in any weather.
It’s Hotter on the Roof
Keep in mind it’s hot on the roof! Due to the sun’s reflection on dark colored shingles, the temperature on the roof is usually about 70% higher than on the ground. Because of this, we find the most desirable temperature range to install new roofs is about fifty to sixty degrees.
It’s Our Winter Guarantee
Our guarantee doesn’t stop in the winter! We offer a ten-year guarantee on labor and up to a thirty-year guarantee on materials (depending on the manufacturer).
If you’re facing a roof repair or installation and winter is upon us, just request an estimate! One of our knowledgeable technicians will come to you to explain what’s best in your specific situation. At Sunrise Roofing & Chimney, we care more about providing you with lasting quality and durability than we do about making a quick sale. Therefore, we will analyze the severity of the repair, type of roof, weather conditions, etc, and provide you with an estimate and time frame that benefits you.
Don’t hesitate to have your roof inspected in any weather. If your roof is damaged, waiting until Spring can be more costly. Request a free estimate from Sunrise Roofing & Chimney today!
