Can a Roof Be Replaced During the Winter?

Many homeowners assume that the winter months are the worst time to replace their roofs, and that’s an understandable assumption. The cold temperatures, snow, and unpredictable weather may seem like huge obstacles, but the truth is, in many cases, roof replacement is not only possible, it can be practical depending on several factors. 

In this blog, we’ll explore why replacing your roof in the winter can be a viable option. We also discuss what you need to consider before scheduling your project in the colder months of the year. 

1. Weather Conditions and Roofing Materials

The biggest concern homeowners have about replacing a roof in the winter months is whether the materials will perform properly in cold temperatures. Materials like asphalt shingles may become brittle in colder temps, but modern roofing materials are built to withstand various weather conditions that come with winter. 

Still, asphalt shingles, which are the most common, can typically be installed in temps as low as 40°F, but you need to schedule roofing during dry spells. There are also specialized adhesives that help bond shingles in cooler temps. 

2. Roof Safety During Winter

Snow and ice are some of the hazards that come with winter, and they can make installing a roof in the winter less safe. Professional roofing contractors are experienced in working in these conditions and will take precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of your home. 

3. Faster Scheduling

It’s not surprising that roofing contractors are the busiest in the spring and summer. The weather is milder and more predictable. The upside of this is that there’s less demand for roofing work in the winter months, which means you can probably get your job done faster. If you have leaks and need a new roof now, you’ll probably get a faster response in the winter because the contractors are less busy. 

4. Possible Weather Delays

Weather delays can occur in the winter, so you have to keep that in mind. There’s always the risk of unpredictable weather, especially in the Chicagoland area. Without warning you can experience snow, rain, or even ice storms. To battle this issue you need to be flexible and understand unexpected things can happen during winter installations. 

5. Energy Efficiency and Insulation

Having your roof replaced in the winter can help improve the energy efficiency of your home. Older roofs contribute to higher energy bills, particularly during the colder months. Roof replacements improve insulation, seal off drafts, and reduce heat loss. 

6. Advantages of Winter Roof Replacement

Winter roof replacement offers advantages. 

- Material Availability: Because the winter is the slowest time for roofers, you’ll be more likely to get the shingles you want, and other materials needed faster than if you were installing your roof in the milder times of year. 

- Less Impact on Landscaping: When you replace your roof in the winter, you’re less concerned about installers damaging your landscaping. This also helps the contractors since they will not have to be as careful of a garden in the winter months.

7. What to Consider When Replacing a Roof in the Winter

Before you schedule a roof replacement during the winter, keep these things in mind. 

- Don’t Worry If the Shingles Don't Look Right At First: It’s possible the shingles won’t lay flat right after installation. When they’re installed in the winter, shingles need time to heat up to flatten out. It may look different but that doesn’t mean your roof is at risk. They will eventually lay flat.

- Choose the Right Contractor: Make sure the roofer you hire has a ton of experience laying roofing in the winter months. You want them to be prepared for anything.

- Prepare for Possible Delays: As we’ve mentioned, weather conditions can wedge a wrench in your schedule. Know that rescheduling the installation may happen if the weather isn’t cooperative. 

Are You in Kankakee, IL, and Considering a Winter Roof Installation?

If you live in the Kankakee, Bourbonnais, or Gilman areas of Illinois, contact us at M&B Roofing. We are a local, family-owned, and operated roofing company with years of winter installations under our belt. If you would like to learn more about M&B Roofing and winter installations click here.