Winter Roof Replacement: Is It A Good Idea?

Yes, you can replace your roof during winter, but there are important conditions and considerations that you should understand before starting the project.

While many homeowners worry about winter roof replacements, the fact is that professional roofing contractors can successfully install new roofs even in cold weather.

A winter roof replacement is entirely possible with the right expertise and installation techniques. As your trusted Wisconsin roofing experts, we’ve performed many winter roof replacements with excellent results.

For homeowners in Wisconsin dealing with roofing issues, there’s no need to wait for warmer weather if your roof needs immediate attention. In this blog post, we will go over how roofers handle winter roof replacements, including installation techniques and what you can expect. 

For your roofing needs in Wisconsin, trust us as your professional contractor. To schedule a free roof inspection, call us today at (920) 249-4228.

What Are The Pros Of Replacing A Roof In Winter?

It might be surprising to know that winter can actually be a great time for a roof replacement. During the colder months, roofing contractors generally have more flexible schedules, which means your project might be completed sooner. 

Another advantage is that winter roof replacements can help you identify and address any existing insulation or ventilation issues that might not be as apparent during warmer months. This allows you to improve your home’s overall energy efficiency, keeping you cozy all winter long.

What Are the Temperature Requirements for Winter Roof Replacement?

The general rule of thumb says that asphalt shingles should only be installed when temperatures are 40 degrees or warmer. However, thanks to new improvements in shingle manufacturing, this requirement has become more flexible. 

Shingles today are more pliable and can withstand colder temperatures better during installation.

Nevertheless, at BRH Enterprises, we take extra precautions when installing shingles in cold weather. We carefully monitor temperatures and weather conditions and use specialized techniques to ensure proper adhesion. 

For example, allowing shingle bundles to warm in the sun before actually installing them helps them become more pliable and easier to work with.

What Special Installation Techniques Are Required for Winter Roofing?

When installing a roof in winter, professionals use specialized techniques to prevent issues during the work. 

#1 Warming The Shingles Before Installation

Rather than rushing through the process, contractors take additional precautions like we already mentioned above. Carefully warming the shingles before installation allows them to become more pliable, lowering the risk of cracks and poor adhesion. 

#2 Hand-Seal The Shingles

Also, make sure that your roofer hand-seals each shingle during a winter roof replacement rather than relying solely on the sun’s heat to activate the sealant strips.

#3 Store The Shingles In A Warm & Dry Place

Another important thing to remember for winter roof replacements is to store the roofing material in a proper storage area. 

We store materials in a warm, dry location until they’re ready to be used, which helps prevent moisture damage and ensures ideal installation conditions.

#4 Extra Steps To Deal With Ice & Frost

Ice and frost can make roofing surfaces especially dangerous during the winter months. Because of this, professionals take precautions like using extra safety tools, removing snow and ice before actually starting the work, and having extra lighting during shorter winter days. 

These precautions may seem like they’re slowing down the roof replacement process, but they’re very important for a safe and high-quality roof installation.

How Do Weather Conditions Impact Winter Roof Replacements?

Weather plays a major role in winter roof replacements, particularly in Wisconsin’s climate, where we experience consistent snowfall and severe snowstorms. While cold temperatures alone don’t prevent roof installation, certain conditions require special attention. 

For example, your roofing project will need to pause during active precipitation, whether it’s rain, snow, or sleet. This is because moisture trapped between your roof’s layers can result in serious problems down the line.

Additionally, a winter roof replacement might take longer because of the shorter daylight hours and unpredictable weather.

However, experienced contractors like us carefully plan around these conditions to make sure your winter roof replacement is completed efficiently and properly.

What Should You Expect During A Winter Roof Replacement?

During your winter roof replacement, you can expect some key differences from warm-weather installations.

As we mentioned already, the very first thing to remember is that your project might take slightly longer because of additional precautions and shorter daylight hours. 

Your roofing team will likely start later in the morning to allow temperatures to rise and may need to conclude work earlier because of the darkness.

Other than this, you might notice some extra steps in the roof replacement process, such as handling and warming the roofing materials, hand sealing the shingles, more frequent weather monitoring, and extra protective measures for your property.

What Roofing Materials Work Best For Winter Installation?

Roof replacements are possible in winter with the right installation techniques, but yes, some roofing materials take more time and effort. 

For example, asphalt shingles are a popular option, and they require a little extra care and specific temperature considerations for proper installation. 

Metal roofs, on the other hand, often prove more winter-friendly since they don’t rely on thermal activation for sealing and are not more brittle in cold temperatures.

It is very important not to compromise on the quality of roofing materials during winter roof work. Choosing an experienced roofer in your area will make sure that your preferred roofing material is installed perfectly. 

How Should Homeowners Prepare For A Winter Roof Replacement?

Preparing your home for a winter roof replacement includes certain important steps. 

Make sure that your attic space is properly protected, as the replacement process can disturb existing insulation and belongings. 

You should also clear your driveway and the areas around your home of snow and ice to provide safe access for roofing crews and material delivery.

Here are some useful preparation tips that you can consider before replacing your roof in winter:

👉 Remove valuable items from your attic

👉 Protect outdoor furniture and decorations

👉 Inform your neighbors about the upcoming project

👉 Make arrangements for pets or kids who might be sensitive to construction noise

👉 Ensure proper indoor heating, as some heat loss may occur during installation

What Are Important Things To Check After A Winter Roof Replacement?

After your winter roof replacement, it’s important to monitor your roof’s performance through the changing seasons. 

While a properly installed roof shouldn’t require immediate maintenance, we recommend scheduling an inspection during the spring to make sure that everything has sealed correctly as temperatures warm up.

Your post-installation maintenance might include:

👉 Checking for proper shingle sealing

👉 Inspecting flashing and seals around vents and chimneys

👉 Checking for proper drainage

👉 Monitoring attic ventilation

👉 Looking for any signs of winter installation-related issues

Schedule Your Professional Roof Replacement In Wisconsin 

So do not delay your roof replacement because of the chilly winter weather. At BRH Enterprises LLC, our team has the expertise and experience to handle your winter roof replacement professionally and efficiently. We are your trusted local roofing company in Mayville and the surrounding areas of Wisconsin. 

We are committed to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction through our roofing services regardless of the season. 

Call us today at (920) 249-4228 to schedule your free roof inspection and learn more about how we can protect your home with a professional winter roof replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions