Winter Roofing, What Can Be Done & What Needs To Wait For Warmer Temps

It’s cold and rainy out there today, but will be turning into snow later tonight (according to The Weather Channel). In the South we do experience these periods of winter weather which affect all kinds of construction projects. In the Roofing business this is especially true, temperatures affect what can and cannot be done during colder temperatures.

Fortunately, here in Georgia, we have much milder weather than those up further north, which means we have many more days where we can provide most any service needed. Even if you need a full roof replacement, depending on your roof and the weather, you may not need to wait until spring to have it done! Here are a few things you should know about Winter roofing and how it could affect your roofing project.

Minor repairs

Replacing faulty flashings, repairing chimneys and fixing gutters are all possible in cold weather. Your roofing contractor may try to schedule your service on temperate, sunny days for convenience and comfort, but any dry time will do.

Shingle replacement

Asphalt, slate or wood shingles and shakes can be replaced throughout the year without a problem. Colder weather can make the shingles more brittle, however, requiring special care and attention when nailing and fastening roofing materials to the housing structure.
Shingle manufacturers recommend installing asphalt shingles when the temperature is 40 degrees Fahrenheit and rising.

Sloped roofs

Sloped roofs can be placed in the winter as long as they are not the peel-and-stick variety. The adhesive component of these roofing systems is temperature-dependent and will not adhere to the sub-roof when temperatures dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, metal, asphalt and tile roofs can still be replaced when the air hits 39 degrees or colder.

Rubber and flat roofs

Save your rubber or flat roof replacement project until after the spring thaw. The adhesive that binds the EPDM or modified bitumen to the house will freeze during winter weather, rendering it ineffective.

Not sure about what you can do to your roof in times like these? Have questions? Call us at 770-419-2222 and we’d be more than happy evaluate your roof and see if we can do what you need without waiting until spring!

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