It’s December, and your roof has started to leak. Or, maybe you just cleaned the last of the falling leaves out of your gutter, and you notice that your shingles are showing signs of wear. Now it’s winter jacket weather. Does that mean that your roof needs to wait until spring to be repaired or replaced? Can you replace a roof in winter? 

Yes, winter roof installations are quite common! You may think of roofing as a summer job, but we install roofs year-round.  In fact, Volpe Enterprises, Inc. prides itself on having a team of qualified roofers trained in cold-weather roofing maintenance and repair. 

Many roofing companies opt to take the winter off since installing roofs in the winter involves additional considerations.  Weather conditions, worker safety, and material restrictions are all factors that are considered when replacing a roof in winter weather. Volpe Enterprises, Inc. has the proper skills and experience to service your roofing needs even in the cold. 

If you do run into a problem with your roof over the winter months, it’s important to have a professional look at your roof right away and not wait until spring. Because of the expansion and contraction and melting and freezing water, leaks and other roofing problems can very quickly become big headaches.

Is Winter Roof Replacement Possible?

Absolutely. Cold weather roofing isn’t just possible. It’s a regular part of the roofing business. Modern materials and technological advances in shingles, tools, and winter weather gear continue to make it easier to install shingles in the wintertime. 

It may seem more likely to experience roof leaks during the summer due to thunderstorms and hail. However, dangerous ice dams and heavy snow will push a roof to its limit. 

While there are some restrictions on how low the temperature can drop, installing a roof during December, January, and February is not only possible, but it may be the best time of the year to have your roof installed. 

Benefits of Replacing a Roof in Winter

Winter roof replacements are not only possible, but they can also be a great time to take advantage of the season. Crews tend to be less busy in December, January, and February, so the turnaround time for your roofing project will be much quicker than in traditionally busy months, such as the fall and spring. 

 View our winter roofing promotions!

Did you know that replacing your roof in the winter will also save you money on your energy bills? Your new roof will be more energy-efficient than your old one. Pairing your roof replacement with new attic insulation can add to significant savings on your heat bill.

Challenges of Winter Roof Replacement

Yes, there are some challenges to replacing your roof in cold weather. Snow, ice, and temperatures below freezing can require special equipment or cause delays. Precautions and correct safety equipment are essential when working on a slippery roof. 

Shingles also require some special treatment in cold weather. They become less flexible and more difficult to cut as the temperatures drop.  To keep shingles malleable, they’re often stored in a climate-controlled warehouse or garage. The adhesive on the shingles also takes longer to set since it requires the sun’s heat to seal. Most shingle manufacturers recommend installing shingles on days above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Luckily, Southeastern Pennsylvania has moderately cold temperatures and doesn’t typically experience too much extreme winter weather. The average highs for Philadelphia in December, January, and February are right around 40-45 degrees, allowing for plenty of winter days to install roofs. 

Tips for a Successful Winter Roof Replacement

There are a few things that you can do to help ensure that your winter roof replacement is successful.  The biggest is to choose roofing professionals who are accustomed to working in winter conditions.  Volpe Enterprises, Inc. has 50+ years of experience and certified pros who are prepared for the unique and unpredictable challenges of cold weather. 

If there are materials stored at your home, you can help keep them warm by storing them in your garage. This keeps the shingles from freezing overnight, which makes them easier to handle. 

Finally, be patient. Our schedulers do their best to ensure a safe, successful roof replacement. However, weather forecasts do change, and a few degrees can make a difference in the quality of the replacement and the safety of our crew. 

Choose Volpe Enterprises for Your Winter Roof Replacement

Choosing the right roofing company for your winter project is the most important step. With a team of experts who are certified by shingle manufacturers, we’ve been able to handle the winter season in southeastern Pennsylvania for over 50 years. We use what we believe to be the best roofing system on the market, and we offer additional workmanship guarantees. 

Putting off your roof repair or replacement until the spring is a risk you don’t need to take. Contact us today to get a free roof evaluation. 

FAQs About Winter Roof Replacement

Is winter roofing safe?

Yes, provided you are working with experienced professionals! With proper precautions and safety equipment, winter roofing is just as safe as roof replacements in the summer. Your roofing crew will take extra precautions to ensure minimal risks associated with icy surfaces and cold weather. 

Will shingles seal properly in cold weather?

Modern shingles are designed to be durable, even in colder climates. However, proper sealing may take longer in low temperatures. Professional roofers may use techniques like hand-sealing or applying heat to ensure a secure installation.

How do contractors work around snow or ice?

Before starting the project, your roofing team will clear snow and ice from the roof to create a safe and clean working environment.

Will my house get cold? 

Not significantly. Roofers replace sections of the roof one at a time, ensuring your home is not entirely exposed to the elements. Additionally, professionals take precautions to minimize heat loss and maintain your home’s comfort. Wondering what to expect on the day of your roof installation? Read this blog on staying home while your roof is being installed. 

What happens if the weather turns bad during the project?

Professional roofing companies like Volpe Enterprises plan for unexpected weather changes. They use tarps and other protective measures to keep your home safe and minimize delays.

How long does a winter roof replacement take?

The duration depends on the size and complexity of your roof, as well as the weather conditions. Snow removal, for example, may slow down the replacement process. However, a small to medium-sized home can usually have a new roof installed in just one day. 

Learn more about other common winter roofing problems.