Replacing a roof is a major home improvement project that can be done any time of the year. However, most experts agree that it's not ideal to repair or replace a roof when the temperature drops below 40°F. Cold temperatures can affect the outcome of your roofing project, and if your roof needs to be replaced now, you may not have the luxury of waiting for warmer weather. If you're in need of a new roof but the weather outside is frightful, don't worry.
An experienced roofing contractor will work with you to install your roof and protect your home as soon as possible. Some contractors may tell you that it's never OK to replace a roof in winter or when temperatures fall below freezing, but this isn't necessarily true. Shingles contain a strip of sealant (also called adhesive or glue) that interacts with the warm temperatures that normally occur during summer, late spring and fall, resulting in an automatic seal. The sealant must seal on its own due to a combination of heat and pressure, and also sticks in to keep it from curling up.
In cold temperatures, however, roofing equipment must hand seal each tile to ensure that the sealant adheres properly. This takes a little longer than relying on the natural heat of the sun to activate the seal, but it ensures that each and every one is sealed correctly. It's important to work with a roofing contractor that only uses experienced roofing professionals who know when it is necessary to seal a roof by hand and follow the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines for sealants and temperatures. While you might be tempted to take advantage of a lower price, remember that reputable roofing companies stay busy for a reason: they offer high-quality work that will last for decades.
A new roof can be installed in winter, but tools and materials perform less than optimal in climates that are below freezing and there is snow or rain. Asphalt shingles or clay tiles could crack or break during installation due to cold temperatures, so it's best to repair or replace your roof in fall when agility and the use of hands and fingers are necessary for proper installation. Additionally, small amounts of snow can make roofs slippery, especially sloped roofs, so it's unsafe and extremely difficult for your roofing contractor to replace your roof under such conditions. Dallas-based J Wales Home Solutions offers reliable roof replacements and residential solar energy solutions.
Tile roofs take a long time to set in order to create an airtight barrier between the inside of the house and the outside elements, so it's important to work with a company that takes the time to hand-seal each and every tile. Your roof is your home's most important investment because it's your first line of defense against Mother Nature's elements, so make sure you choose an experienced contractor who supports their work.
