Pros and Cons of Winter Roofing

Most people don’t think of winter as the best time to replace a roof, and there are legitimate reasons for this. Cold weather can affect the performance of tools and shingles, and ice can make for dangerous conditions on roofs. But it’s certainly possible to replace your roof in the winter, and there are unexpected benefits to doing so. And if your roof is damaged or leaking, it’s important to remedy the issue immediately—don’t let the season stop you from protecting your home!

A Few Words of Caution

Before diving into the benefits of winter roofing, it’s important to address possible areas of concern. Freezing temperatures can hamper roofing equipment, specifically nail guns. These tools are powered by compressed air, and if the air contains humidity, that moisture can freeze the airlines, restricting airflow and affecting nail placement.

Shingles lose their pliability in cold weather, making them more brittle and susceptible to cracking. Most shingles also have sealant strips designed to activate in warm weather, meaning hand-sealing might be necessary during the winter.

Finally, snow and ice can make walking on a roof dangerous, and inclement weather may delay roofing projects until conditions are safe for workers. So, while winter weather poses unique challenges for roofing, a well-trained and experienced crew is more than capable of doing the job.

Benefits of Winter Roofing

So, why might replacing your roof in the winter be preferable? The first reason is to prepare your home for the coming spring rains and thunderstorms. Any weak spots or hidden damage on your roof could prove disastrous when the downpours start in April and May. Flooding can cause extensive damage to the interior and exterior of your home, and it’s better not to take any chances.

The second benefit is ease of scheduling and a potentially faster turnaround time. Roofing work slows down during the winter, freeing up our schedule and allowing us to get to your project sooner.

The third reason to consider winter roofing is to protect your landscape. While we always treat your property with the utmost care and respect, there is always a risk to plants or furniture around the house. Most plants slow their growth during the winter, making them less sensitive to damage. Lawn chairs and ornaments are also more likely to be in storage for the season, opening a window of opportunity for work like roofing.

Contact Armor Construction to Learn More

As we’ve seen, there are both possible concerns and great benefits to replacing your roof during the winter. If you’re still not sure, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re happy to answer your questions and conduct a free, no-obligation inspection of your property. Contact us today!