When Should I Have My Roof Replaced?

Sooner or later, every homeowner will have to deal with a faulty roof. From time to the weather, a few factors will eventually wear down the materials of your roof and leave you with no choice but to replace it. Most roofs have a life expectancy of 20 years, so if your roof is reaching its age limit, now is the time to consider replacement.

However, there are times of the year that are best for roof work and hazardous seasons you will want to avoid. Here’s a breakdown of the four seasons and whether you should have your roof replaced during each time.

Winter

For several reasons, winter is not the most ideal time for roof work. Snow, ice and cold temperatures not only make work conditions difficult for roofers, but can also make roofing materials hard and brittle. In some cases, shingles may even crack during the installation process. The tools roofers use won’t work as well in sub-freezing temperatures and sealants are difficult to apply. Unless it is an emergency, try to avoid doing any roof work in the winter.

Spring

While spring offers far more favorable conditions than winter, it still presents problems for roofing repairs. Prolonged rain and unseasonably cold weather can make conditions difficult and unsafe for working. Yet, this time of year is not as busy for roofing projects as the late summer or early fall and materials are usually less expensive.

Summer

If you opt for summer to do your roof replacement, its best to plan on early in the season. The weather is ideal and any remnants of a harsh winter are long gone. Avoid doing work in July or August when temperatures can reach the high 90s and the humidity makes for very difficult working conditions. Also, the high heat can soften asphalt in the shingles, making it less durable during installation.

Fall

The best – and busiest – time of year for roofers is the fall. Favorable weather conditions make the months of September, October and November ideal for roof work. The cooler temperature allows roof installers to work longer hours without getting overheated and the mild weather makes installation easier. Shingles have time to seal effectively and will be prepared to take on the elements during winter.

Are you ready to plan a roof replacement? Contact the team at Steve Czerwinski Inc. to schedule an assessment of your property.