Cold-Weather Roofing: What Madison Homeowners Should Know
Roof problems don't wait for good weather. Here's what changes when roofing work happens in the cold.
Request a rooferShingles in the cold
Asphalt shingles get stiff and can crack if bent in very cold weather. Roofers handle and store them carefully, sometimes keeping bundles warm until needed.
Sealing strips
Shingles have a strip of adhesive that bonds them to the row below when the sun warms them. In winter it may not seal until spring, so some roofers hand-seal tabs.
Emergency repairs
Leaks and storm damage can be fixed in winter. A roofer may make a temporary repair and come back to finish it in milder weather.
Full replacements
Winter replacements are possible on dry, milder days. Snow, ice and very low temperatures cause delays, so build in some flexibility.
Safety
Icy roofs are dangerous even for professionals. Expect a roofer to wait out unsafe conditions.
Planning ahead
If your roof is near the end of its life, book a replacement for late spring to fall, when scheduling and sealing are easiest.
Ask the roofer
How do you handle sealing in cold weather? Will you return to check the work in spring?
Get started
See roof replacement.
Ice and water membrane in the cold
Self-adhering membranes need a clean, dry, reasonably warm surface to stick properly. In winter, roofers may wait for a milder day, warm the deck or choose products rated for cold application. Ask which approach they'll use on your roof.
Nails and decking
Cold, brittle decking can split, and nail guns need careful pressure settings so nails don't blow through stiff shingles. These are small details, but they decide how well a winter roof holds up when spring winds arrive.
Snow on the job site
Crews need to clear snow from the roof before they can start, and shingles can't go down over ice. Expect extra time and possibly an added cost for snow removal on winter jobs.
More roofing guides
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