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Commercial Roof Replacement: Summer vs. Winter

June , 2023 | 7 min. read

By Macie LaCau

building in late summer

Commercial roofs are built to be durable, long-lasting, and secure. But what happens when the dreaded day comes that they give out? No one wants to think about the day their roof fails, but the truth is that it just may happen to you. And when the bell chimes for roof replacement, it's only natural to have a lot of questions. What season is best to get a new roof- summer or winter? 

We're thrilled you popped on over here because we definitely resonate with your roof replacement concerns. But there's good news- you're golden once you know which seasons favor roof replacements! RoofCrafters has replaced faulty roofs on commercial buildings for nearly thirty years. There are numerous ways to tell if your business's roof is crying for help, and we're here to identify them for you!

This article is your one-stop shop for figuring out which season is the right time to pull the plug on that old roof. By the time you finish reading, you'll be a roof replacement expert (and your commercial building will be so grateful.) 

Roof Replacements: Summer   

 

Summer is widely considered an excellent season for roof replacement due to several key reasons:

  1. Weather Conditions: Summer typically offers more favorable weather conditions for roof replacement compared to other seasons. With longer daylight hours, reduced chances of rain or snowfall, and warmer temperatures, it provides an optimal environment for roofing contractors to complete the project efficiently and effectively. Dry and sunny weather allows for proper installation and faster curing of roofing materials, ensuring a sturdy and durable roof.

  2. Expanded Working Time: The extended daylight hours during the summer season provide roofing crews with increased working time. They can start early in the morning and work until later in the evening, taking advantage of the additional daylight. This expanded working time allows for more progress to be made each day, potentially shortening the overall duration of the roof replacement project.

  3. Flexibility in Scheduling: Many homeowners prefer to schedule roof replacements during the summer months when they have more flexibility in their schedules. Summer vacations and breaks from school or work often provide an opportune time for homeowners to coordinate the project without disrupting their daily routines. Additionally, contractors tend to have more availability during summer, making it easier to secure a preferred date for the roof replacement.

  4. Efficient Material Installation: Certain roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, benefit from warmer temperatures during installation. The heat helps the shingles to seal and bond properly, ensuring a tight and secure fit. Summer's warmth facilitates this process, allowing the roofing materials to settle effectively and achieve optimal performance.

  5. Preparation for Winter: Undertaking a roof replacement in summer allows homeowners to address any existing issues or wear and tear before the arrival of harsher weather conditions. A new roof protects against winter elements like snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. By proactively replacing the roof during the summer, homeowners can ensure their property remains secure and well-insulated when colder seasons arrive.


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While summer offers several advantages for roof replacement, it is essential to note that scheduling and local climate factors should be considered. This season is a bit tougher on roofers because of the heat, but it still ranks high on our list. Consulting with roofing professionals and considering the specific needs of your property will help determine the most suitable timing for your roof replacement project.

Winter: Does it Compare? 

 

Roof replacements during winter can be challenging! This season isn't generally considered an ideal time for a roofing project. Why? Glad you asked. 

  • "Burr!": Winter weather conditions pose several challenges for roof replacement. Cold temperatures can affect the performance of roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, making them brittle and prone to damage during installation. Adhesives may also take longer to cure properly, leading to potential issues with sealing and bonding. Working on a roof in freezing temperatures can also be hazardous for the roofers, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

  • Reduced Daylight and Weather Constraints: Winter days are shorter, providing limited daylight hours for roofing work. This can significantly impact the progress of the project, potentially extending the overall duration. Inclement weather conditions, including snow, ice, and freezing rain, are also more frequent during winter. Nasty weather can further delay the roof replacement process and compromise the quality of the installation.

  • Thermal Efficiency and Energy Loss: During a roof replacement, the roof structure is temporarily exposed. Starting this process in winter means exposing the building's interior to colder outdoor temperatures, resulting in increased heat loss and reduced energy efficiency. This can lead to higher heating costs and discomfort for you until the new roof is fully installed and insulated.

  • Availability and Scheduling: Roofing contractors often experience a higher demand for their services during warmer months. As a result, their availability may be more limited during winter. Scheduling a roof replacement project during this time can be challenging, and it may take longer to find a suitable contractor to perform the work. 

  • Complications: Winter weather can lead to unpredictable delays and complications during the roof replacement process. Snowfall, ice accumulation, and freezing temperatures can halt work, increase safety risks, and hinder the proper installation of roofing materials. These factors can result in extended project timelines and potentially affect the overall quality of the roof replacement. 


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While it's generally a good idea to avoid roof replacements during winter, there may be times when urgent repairs or unforeseen circumstances require immediate attention. In those cases, it's crucial to consult with a professional roofer who can assess the situation and help you come up with a plan. Remember- if you need roof care, you can get it no matter what time of year! A qualified roofing professional can help you year-round, so ensure you find one you trust to do the job. 

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Preserve Your Roof with Regular Maintenance 

 

One of the most helpful things you can do to preserve the life of your roof is to have regular upkeep performed. Keeping an eye out for your commercial roof will help you spot problems early on, so you don't have to pay a hefty price later. 

Finding a trustworthy roofer is just as vital, as well. A sketchy roofer not only may miss key points of damage on your roof, but they could also incorrectly install your new one. Improper roof installation sets your home up for early failure, more prevalent issues, and the possibility of having to get another new roof way sooner than you should have to. To learn more about roof maintenance, check out "The Surprising Truth About Roof Maintenance: What Every Homeowner Should Know."  

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Should I Get a Roof Replacement During Summer or Winter?    

 

You can have a roof replacement performed no matter the season, but as we see here, summer is clearly the winner. Keep in mind that maintaining a well-kept and structurally sound roof is vital to safeguarding and prolonging the life of any commercial building. As time goes on, roofs endure the effects of weather, aging, and structural changes. Failing to quickly address roof-related issues can result in serious consequences like water damage, energy inefficiency, weakened structural integrity, and even safety risks. Whew. It's crucial to prioritize regular roof maintenance and timely repairs to ensure the overall protection and longevity of your commercial roof!

By understanding the importance of *timely* roof replacement, you can avoid costly repairs, enhance energy efficiency, ensure a safe working environment, and safeguard your valuable assets! With proper planning, regular inspections, and the assistance of qualified professionals, commercial roof replacement becomes an investment that pays off in long-term protection, peace of mind, and overall success.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your roof, we're ready to assist you. When you're ready, visit our contact page to connect with one of our helpful representatives at RoofCrafters. Your happiness is one of our highest priorities, and we can't wait to serve you! 

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Macie LaCau

I'm a native Georgian who spends my days nurturing my passions and embracing the quiet life. With a penchant for taking the road less traveled, I love discovering new ideas, rooting for the underdog, and taking the long way home. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, animals, and making memories.