Can I Replace My Roof in the Winter?
Wisconsin faces many seasons, including the winter. As the temperature drops, the roofing industry slows down.
But that doesn’t mean those pesky roof problems like leaks and ice dams will wait.
You may not feel any hesitation when it comes to winter roof repairs, but what about a complete roof replacement?
For over a decade, Rescue My Roof has been guiding homeowners through the process of replacing their roofs no matter the season. Now we will help you figure out whether a winter roof replacement is right for your home and family.
First, we will give you the short answer of whether or not a roof can be installed in the nasty Wisconsin winter. After that, we’ll cover some of the essential things you need to know before taking on a winter roof replacement.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect when you need any roof work done in the winter.
Can A New Roof Be Installed in the Winter?
Great news! The answer is: yes, a roof can be installed in the winter. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t certain conditions that will make the process more challenging.
3 Things You Need to Know About Installing a Roof in the Winter
Despite the challenges that may pop up like a snowstorm or ice build-up, sometimes roof replacements can’t wait. And it’s crucial to know that you can get a brand new roof when you need it, any time of the year.
Here are some of the winter roofing challenges that can slightly delay the roofing process:
1. Snow and Ice Removal
Winter weather requires roofing contractors to adapt, starting with snow and ice.
If you have any roof repairs or installations scheduled the day after it snows, the roofing crews may take additional time at the beginning of the project to remove excess snow and ice before work begins.
The snow can be shoveled off of your roof, while ice can be melted with steamers. This will make tear-off easier, and the conditions will be safer for the crews.
While these steps add some time to the overall project, they shouldn’t result in additional fees beyond the estimated cost for time and labor.
However, these steps must be taken as the safety of the workers is at stake.
2. Weather Delays
While snow and ice from an overnight storm can be removed the next day, active snow can cause problems.
During the summer months, roof replacements can be foiled by rainy weather. During the winter, the projects are delayed by snow.
Snow is very slippery and can limit visibility, two extreme safety hazards for the roofing crew.
While it snows, the roof will be protected by an ice and water barrier. This barrier can be bare to the elements for up to sixty days and keeps the roof protected until the poor weather passes.
While this may add additional days to the length of the roof installation, it’s always better safe than sorry.
Work halts so that roofing crews can avoid any weather-related accidents during a roof installation.
3. Extended Roof Replacement Times
During the summer, a roof replacement typically takes one to two days.
The process can take from one to four days in the winter because of delays like the weather. Make sure to prepare for any delays in the process ahead of time, so you are not blindsided.
Additionally, a longer installation process isn’t something to be afraid of. As we’ve said before, your roof will be protected by an ice and water barrier. Even if the work takes longer than usual, your home will still be protected.
Starting a Roof Replacement in the Winter
There may be some additional steps to the roofing process, like snow and ice removal, but a winter roof replacement is possible, and in some cases, necessary.
If you face issues with your roof like missing shingles, leaks, or sagging, don’t wait to get your roof checked out.
Finding the issue and getting a roof replacement will save you money on repairs in the long run and can save your home from significant damage.
You can learn more about winter roof maintenance with “Preparing Your Roof for the Winter: 5 Things You Need to Know” and “Ice Dams: The Main Culprit of Winter Roof Issues.”
Have you noticed issues with your roof? Don’t let the cold Wisconsin weather stop you from calling in the professionals. You can contact us to schedule your free roof estimate today.