Can Roofing Repair Contractors Work in the Winter?

Residential roofing companies don’t stop operating in the winter, even after snow begins to pile up. If you need urgent roofing repair or roofing maintenance, residential roofing contractors know how to handle ice and snow.

In fact, plenty of residential roofing companies will tell you that working on a roof in the winter is only a little more difficult than working on a roof in the summer. Some may even prefer it, since it’s much hotter to be on a roof in the summer. They just need a little extra time to shovel snow off your roof and cover it at night.

You still may be daunted by the idea of workers climbing around on your slippery roof in the snow, but what you should really be concerned about is your roof. It’s dangerous to wait until the end of winter to deal with problems like leaks, but it can be even more dangerous to work on certain types of roofs in the winter.

Different roofing materials respond to cold temperatures in different ways. Some can be installed or worked on in winter, and others shouldn’t.

For instance, flat roofs can be installed in the winter if they’re made of Polyvinyl Chloride or Thermoplastic Olefin and the installation is mechanical. Rubber roofes, however, use adhesives that freeze when temperatures are below 40 degrees, so your roof won’t actually seal the way it’s supposed to. Be wary of residential roofing companies that claim they can repair or install rubber roofs in the winter.

Asphalt roofs can be installed in the winter, but it can be a bit dodgy. Shingles are easier to bend and crack when it’s cold, which can prevent a seal from forming between shingles. Often shingles won’t seal properly until the weather is sunny and warm enough to start the bonding process. Roofs can leak or blow off during this time period. A good roofer might be able to pull it off, but it’s still risky.

Metal roofs can be installed year round, since they’re designed to expand and contract with outside temperatures anyway.

Have a lengthy talk with your roofer before deciding if your roof can be repaired in the winter.