Can You Replace a Roof in the Winter?

Many homeowners don’t know if they can replace a roof in the winter. With the possibility of frost, freezing rain, ice, sleet, snow, frigid temperatures, and other inclement weather, homeowners have many valid concerns. Not to worry. While the cold might impact the ability to perform specific outdoor construction projects, other work can be completed regardless of weather conditions.

Winter months in Springfield, MO, present challenges to homeowners. Freezing rain. Snow showers. Sleet. Ice. Frost. Below-freezing temperatures. Unseasonably warm weather. Rain. Although weather conditions can be unpredictable, roof replacement projects are, for the most part, feasible. Slight delays due to weather may occur, but nothing like northern, eastern, or mountainous regions.

The Benefits Of Replacing A Roof In Winter

Convenient Scheduling

Generally, roofing companies are more available in months with cooler weather than in warmer months. If you schedule a roof replacement in spring, summer, or autumn, your appointment options might be much more limited. During the winter season, roofing contractors are much more flexible and can likely easily accommodate your schedule.

Lower Material Costs

Generally, there is less demand for construction materials during cooler months because fewer roofing projects are in the works. For this reason, roofing companies may be able to access roofing supplies for a more affordable price and pass along the cost savings to homeowners, especially if the roofer is experiencing downtime and needs work.

Limited Risk Of Damage To Lawn And Landscaping

During warm months, a roof replacement may harm the lawn and landscaping. Trees, shrubs, bushes, plants, flowers, and lawn ornaments are at risk. Responsible roofing contractors do their best to avoid damaging property, but foot traffic and falling debris will likely disturb and marr your lawn and landscaping. A wintertime roof replacement presents no such problems.

Fewer Potential Disruptions

For most roofing companies, the winter season presents fewer interruptions because there aren’t nearly as many projects on the work docket. The contractor can prioritize your roof replacement, complete the process efficiently, and meet your timetable. Meeting the deadline is much more difficult during the busier summer months.

Adhesion Issues

Seal applications, lubricants, and adhesive materials do not attach easily to a hard surface in cold weather, especially at extremely low temperatures – well below freezing. Because of this, a roof replacement may take longer to complete in the winter than in the summer. Warm weather generally does not adversely affect adhesion properties.

Nail Gun And Other Tool Performance Issues

While some tools are not impacted by cold weather, other tools, including air compressors and pneumatic nail guns, may not perform as expected. These pieces of equipment are crucial to a roof replacement. Compressed air contains water molecules, which will freeze during cold weather, and lubricant may thicken, slowing down performance.

Limited Availability Of Roofing Materials

Peak season means that a wider array of roofing materials are convenient and accessible to homeowners. Off-season typically results in less available supply as fewer roofing projects are in the pipeline. If you need a particular roofing material, winter months may not be ideal to acquire them. This issue rarely arises during warmer summer months.

Shingle Brittleness

Today’s roofing technology has progressed so that most asphalt shingle brands can be installed in any weather, including extreme cold. However, as temperatures dip lower and lower, asphalt loses its flexibility and can break more easily. In certain instances, this challenge may impact shingle performance following installation.

Choosing A Residential Roofing Contractor For A Winter Roof Replacement

If you own a home in Springfield, MO, or surrounding areas, trust Teague Roofing Plus for all your residential roofing needs. With over four decades of experience providing homeowners with the most sensible solutions, Teague can help you decide if roofing your Southwest Missouri home in winter is the best option. To learn more about our services or to schedule a free consultation and obtain a free quote, contact us today.