Can You Replace a Roof in the Winter?

With the winter months among us, you might have begun to notice a few issues with your current roof. Some of the most common problems we find during colder months include leaks in ceilings as well as missing shingles. As you inspect your own roof, you may even discover that what you really need is to replace your entire roof altogether.

So this brings up the question, “can you replace a roof in the winter?” An excellent question that we are asked during this time of year from San Antonio homeowners. The answer to this question is yes, you can replace a roof in the winter. However, proper technique is still required to ensure that the roof installation process goes smoothly from beginning to end. With a properly installed roof, it should last for many years and seasons to come.

What’s the Best Temperature to Install a Roof in the Winter?

Ideally, roof shingles should be installed when the temperature is between 40 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. While we do have freezing weather in Texas each year, fortunately, there are a handful of days in the winter when the temperature is above 40 degrees. These days are the best to install asphalt roof shingles. When the temperature falls too low, it becomes much easier for shingles to damage or crack as they are being installed.

For this reason, it’s best to have your roof installed on a warmer winter day, if possible. But don’t let this discourage you – a little known secret is that winter is also a season when you may be able to find a good deal on a new roof in San Antonio!

Challenges of Replacing a Roof in the Winter

The biggest challenge of replacing a roof in the winter comes when the temperature drops below 40 degrees. The reason for this is that the adhesive to place the shingles has a much harder time sticking. This is why it’s best to replace your roof when it’s a bit warmer if you have a chance. During warmer months, the stickiness of the adhesive bonds much easier, making for a smooth roof installation.

During the cold of winter, another challenge roofers face is with nail guns. The cold air can actually restrict the airline of the nail gun, making the puncture of the nail become weaker. When this happens, a roofing contractor will likely move slower and take longer to install the roof since they are constantly having to check their nail gun and re-nail areas at times.

The last key challenge that roofers face when installing a new roof in San Antonio is that days become shorter during the winter. With shorter days, this gives roofing contractors less daylight to complete a job, causing the job to potentially span over several days.

Should You Replace a Roof in the Winter?

While it may seem like there a number of challenges to overcome with installing a roof in the winter, it actually still remains a perfect time to replace a roof. Since this time of year tends to slow down for roofing companies, you can likely have your roof replaced much sooner than in warmer months and potentially at a lower cost. You can get an idea of what a roof replacement might cost with this roofing cost resource from HomeAdvisor.

So if you’re on the fence about it, let us help answer any questions you may have.

How About Winter Roof Maintenance?

While you may decide to hold until spring to replace your roof shingles, it’s important to mention that the cold winter months may actually make your roof more vulnerable to damage. With cold winds, ice, and freezing temperatures, this can certainly do a number on your roof. So to help ensure proper winter roof maintenance, here are 3 preventative measures you can take to ensure your roof stays in the best condition this winter.

1. Have a Roof Inspection

Having a professional roofer in San Antonio do a roof inspection at your home to ensure that your roof is in good condition this winter is a smart move. A roofing company should inspect the entire roof and check for flashing areas. Flashing areas are more susceptible to leaks, so a roof inspection will ensure that you won’t encounter any unexpected issues during the winter.

2. Clean Drains and Gutters

One of the best ways to ensure minimal ice damage during the winter is to simply clean our your drains and gutters. When doing so, this allows for the drainage system to be much more effective, especially if there is any melting ice. Leaves in gutters can also cause water to drain off your roof in a way it is not intended to. So be sure to clean them out as well.

3. Take Time to Trim Trees

Tree branches tend to become a little heavier during the winter months with ice build up. In doing so, they also become easier to break off of the tree. If a large tree is near your home, this could cause heavy damage if a branch were to fall on top. In addition, trees that rub up against roofs can also cause some wear and tear to roof shingles. If in doubt, simply minimize tree contact with your roof.

Ready to Replace Your Roof this Winter?

If you’ve made the decision to replace your roof, or are at least thinking about it, please contact us today. We provide free-no obligation estimates for roof repair or replacement! For quality roofing in San Antonio, choose none other than Norwest Roofing.