Typically, asphalt roof shingles should be installed between 50 degrees and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Even high quality asphalt shingles can crack when hammered, and when installing in the wrong temperature can cause breakage. This is one of the biggest problems when you install asphalt roof shingles when it’s under 50 degrees (no lower than 45 degrees).  With that said, winter is often a great time to get a good deal on a new roof but your local roofing contractor will need to wait until the temperature is in the right range before scheduling an installation date.

Routine roof maintenance and periodic replacement by your roofing contractor are important for maintaining the structural integrity of your home. Your roof defends your structure from the elements and keeps you and your family safe. Leaks and poor construction can cause severe damage, including improperly-channeled water runoff that erodes the foundation of your home, water ponding on the roof that can cause sagging and leaks, and even paint damage to the exterior walls of your home.

Whether you require minor roof repairs and/or a complete roof replacement, the question is, which season is best to make the call to your local roof installation and repair contracting company?

The best time of the year to have your local roofing contractor install your new roof may not be what you think. Let’s try to determine the best season!

Winter

Snow, ice, and sleet in the winter months make it difficult to have roof work done—especially a complete roof replacement. In the frigid Northeast, (like here in Albany, NY) sealants will not adhere as effectively during winter, and roofing shingles will take much longer to set. For this reason, most roofing contractors will recommend that you wait until the temperature rises to have roof work done, unless it’s an emergency situation that you will not want to run into.

Spring/Summer

Although there might be a fair amount of rain during the spring and summer months, overall the weather is typically better during these seasons. Your local roofing contractor will agree that weather is of course a huge consideration when it comes to roof work. Spring and early summer are typically the most cost-effective times to have your roof repaired or replaced, as it is generally a slower season for local roofing companies, and materials and labor costs tend to be lower. Most local roofing companies tend to pick up later into summer, so then you may have to wait a few weeks or a month to get a roofing contractor out to your home. Please be mindful that temperatures and humidity levels may soar in late summer, which could limit the amount of time workers can spend each day on the job and possibly add several days to the project.

Autumn

Most local roofing contractors will say Autumn is ideal to have roof work done. The weather is not severely hot or humid, and the heavy downpours of rain have not yet begun. Roofing contractors can work full days on your roof without the threat of heat exhaustion or freezing. This means they can get the job done much more quickly, limiting the inconvenience to you and your family. Another benefit of installing a roof in the fall is the impact on the roofing materials. I particular, shingle roofs need time to seal and create an airtight barrier. Frigid temperatures in the winter months or heat and humidity in the summer make this process more difficult. Autumn can be thought of as the “Goldilocks” season: Not too hot, not too cold, it is just right. Having roof work done in the fall also eliminates any additional stress. You would not have to worry about whether your roof will make it through another winter season without major issues.

Is Replacement needed?

Your local roofing contractors will agree that a very common error homeowners make is putting off their roof replacement even when it’s long overdue and there are already signs of problems. As mentioned earlier, a major leak or storm could cause severe damage to other parts of your home and creating a big financial mess. Roof replacement is a notable expense, but also a significant investment in your home. Roof Replacement helps preventing secondary damage, it adds to your property value, and provides you with peace of mind. Replacing your roof before an emergency arises allows you the time to research your local roofing companies and make an informed decision. Please do not wait until it’s an emergency to have your roof repaired or replaced! Planning ahead is always the best choice.