The need to replace a roof doesn’t always happen at the best times. Charlotte, NC homeowners often wonder if they can have this done during the winter. In most cases, it is possible to have Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations replace a roof during the winter. There are some special considerations that come with this.
Why Consider a Winter Roof Replacement?
Roof replacement always requires careful planning. Many homeowners prefer to have this project done during the warmer months of the year. There are a few reasons why you may need to push to have Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations replace the roof this winter.
Emergency Replacement Due to Damage
Storms, particularly ice storms during the winter months, can lead to roof damage. While some damage can wait until spring to fix, significant damage may require immediate replacement. The key point when trying to decide is whether you’re able to mitigate the damage until the spring.
Potential Cost Savings
A decrease in demand for roof replacement may lead to cost savings for you. In some cases, the cost of supplies for roofing jobs will dip during the winter, so they’re less expensive to purchase.
Avoiding the Spring Rush
Roofing jobs are commonly done in spring. People who put off the roof replacement through the winter may suddenly feel the need to have it done right now. You can avoid the rush and potentially long wait times by opting to have it done during the winter. This is especially helpful if there’s a chance of materials shortages occurring during the spring rush months.
What Should You Do Before a Winter Roof Replacement?
You need a full inspection of the roof before the replacement. Our roofer assesses the condition of the roof to determine what specific points may be challenging because of the winter weather. This enables us to plan ahead so we can work on your roof without any unnecessary surprises.
The roof inspection is also a chance to let you know if there are additional repairs or replacements you need to take care of. This might include things like changing the gutters, replacing the flashing, or replacing eaves.
A comprehensive roof inspection also includes checking the insulation in the attic. If the insulation isn’t up to par, there’s a chance that ice dams can occur on the roof. That can lead to additional damage, which is something you don’t want after a roof replacement. Additionally, having suitable insulation in the attic can help to keep your energy bills under control through the winter months.
What Are the Challenges of Winter Roof Replacement?
While there are many benefits to replacing your home’s roof in winter, there are also some challenges. Roofing during the colder months of the year can face these problems.
Shingle Adhesion Problems
One of the biggest challenges in winter roofing is that many types of shingles require warmth to seal properly. Shingles typically have a self-adhesive strip that needs to be activated by heat to bond securely. When temperatures drop below 40°F, the adhesive may not activate as effectively, making it more difficult for shingles to seal.
Roofing contractors can use a special adhesive and other extra measures to ensure proper bonding. This adds a bit of extra time to the project, and it can make it a little more complex.
Weather-Related Delays
Winter weather in Charlotte is milder than in Northern states, but it’s not immune to cold spells, rain, and even the occasional snow. These weather conditions can delay roofing projects or make them more difficult to execute. If your project is delayed, it could take longer to complete than expected, leaving your home exposed to the elements for a longer period.
Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations has experience with roofing in Charlotte’s winter. We can look at the weather patterns and plan around what’s coming. This may minimize the delays that you’ll face, but it’s a good idea to plan for some delays just in case something happens.
Safety Concerns for Workers
Winter roof replacement can pose safety risks for roofing crews, as surfaces may become slick with frost or ice. Even with the proper safety gear, working on an icy roof is more dangerous than working in warmer weather. Reputable roofing companies will prioritize the safety of their workers and may reschedule or pause work during hazardous conditions.
Because of the considerable risks of winter roofing, it’s best to be understanding if the workers need to pause because of the weather. The safety of the workers must be a priority.
How Can Roofers Increase the Chance of a Successful Roof Replacement?
Winters in Charlotte are mild if you compare them to some other areas of the country. With average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the 50s, there are options for ensuring the shingles set like they should.
Look for Ideal Days
The best temperatures for winter roof replacements are above 40 degrees. Finding days that have a high above that temperature could mean having to wait a few days, but it can greatly enhance the likelihood of optimal shingle setting. Additionally, choosing days without precipitation is ideal.
Choose Materials Carefully
Certain materials are better suited for winter installations than others. For instance, asphalt shingles can still be used effectively in colder weather if proper techniques are applied. This may include using hand-sealing or winter-grade adhesives. Some roofing materials, such as metal roofing, can be installed year-round because temperatures don’t affect them.
Proper Preparation of the Roof
Preparing the roof for the replacement is critical. Our roofers take extra precautions to ensure we’re properly preparing the roof. This includes making sure the roof decking is dry and free of frost or debris before the installation begins. Inspecting the boards is crucial because any moisture that’s in the boards can get stuck under the shingles. That can lead to mold or rot, which can have a negative impact on the roof’s integrity.
Contact Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations for Roof Work
Our team of professionals at Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations is ready to handle any roofing job for you. We work on commercial and residential roofs. We offer initial installation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of any roof, including flat and steep-pitched roofs. Storm damage is no match for us. We also take care of gutter installation, maintenance, and repair for Charlotte area property owners.
Customer service is our top priority, which enables us to keep our Better Business Bureau A+ rating. Since 1994, customers in the greater Charlotte area turn to us for their roofing work. We proudly received the Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave distinction three years in a row. You can count on us to treat your building’s roof as if it’s our own. Blue Fox Roofing & Renovations is here to handle your roofing project, including a full roof replacement, all year long. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our professional roofers.
