Risks When You Replace Your Roof in Winter

When you have to replace your roof in winter, it’s never an ideal time. In fact, you’ll face more risks than during other seasons. However, if it just won’t wait – because of issues such as leaking or damage – you can protect yourself by taking several factors into account. Now that the holiday season is upon us, scheduling roofers to match your busy schedule will be just one of those factors.

Let’s take a look at 4 risks you’ll face when getting a new roof in the winter. And, how you can lessen the risk to your home.

4 Risks When You Replace Your Roof in Winter

The word “risk” doesn’t have to be scary. In fact, we face risk all the time. We simply have to learn to calculate the value of the return. In your case, the return is a dry, safe home. Worth the risk? You bet – especially if you have a leak right now. Here are 4 risks (and solutions) when you replace your roof in winter.

1. Frigid Temperatures

When the temperatures start dipping, it can be hard to find good help to make those needed repairs. Ice and snow on the roof can make for hazardous conditions. In addition, the comfort of the crew is on the line. Those working on your roof in cold temperatures are often carrying extra weight due to winter gear. We all know that weather below freezing is miserable.

Avoid this risk by: waiting until the temperature rises above 20° F.

2. Winter Tool Malfunctions

When you replace your roof in winter it can pose a problem for the tools being used. The reason is that the crew uses several types of tools, such as nail guns and compressors. A compressor can be negatively affected by freezing temperatures. Cold can cause water (from the humidity of compressed air) to freeze in the airlines. That freezing will create issues with the airflow.

Avoid this risk by: allowing more time for installation so the workers can hand-drive any nails that haven’t been driven properly due to restricted airflow.

3. Installing Shingles in the Cold

The best time to replace your roof in the winter is not when it’s extremely cold. Asphalt shingles will have to be hand-sealed if the temperature is below 40° F.

Avoid this risk by: confirming that the roofing crew will be hand-sealing the shingles.

4. Scheduling Delays

It can take longer to replace your roof in the winter. That’s because roofers have to deal with not only bad weather, but also the days you are available. Many homeowners will clear their schedule for urgent roofing repairs. However, because of the holiday season, it can be a challenge to find the right time that works for both parties.

Avoid this risk by: clearing your schedule and telling your roofing contractor that you’re available anytime. You’ll get the problem taken care of faster.

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The risks of roofing in the winter can be challenging. But, if you need to replace your roof in winter and it can’t wait, here’s the best way to make it a success. Call the licensed, professional roofers at Macon Roofing Company at (478) 324-5099 or contact us online.