Many home improvement projects are best saved for warm weather, but what about your roof? While it may sound surprising at first, a winter roof replacement may be exactly the right course of action for you, even in a Michigan winter! There are benefits to having it done in the colder months, and of course, there are some cons too.
Our roofing company team at John McCarter Construction believes in making sure homeowners are well informed of their options, so you can be proud and confident in your attractive, low-maintenance, comfortable home.
Here’s what you need to know from a roofing company near you that has years of experience caring for roofs in the Detroit area. To help answer your questions about winter roof replacement and whether it’s right for you, here are a few vital tips.
Advantages to a Winter Roof Replacement
Costs less
Obviously, spring and summer, even fall, are ideal times for a roof replacement. This means homeowners prefer to schedule during these seasons, and so do roof contractors, who can charge more premium prices because demand is higher. Materials may even cost more during spring, summer, and fall because of demand as well.
During the winter, however, roof replacements are performed less often. Materials will be easier to come by faster, and perhaps be less expensive. Roof contractors will have more room in their schedules and may offer off-season discounts.
Fixes immediate problems
If your roof has been damaged by a winter storm, or if you’re noticing signals that concern you, like missing shingles or a leak in the ceiling, you may need to act quickly. Michigan has its fair share of heavy snows and ice storms, and the weight of snow and ice on a roof can do damage fast. So can ice dams, which form when ice and snow freeze and thaw and refreeze on roofs.
Scheduling an appointment right away can fix those issues and prevent additional damage from happening to your roof. This saves you from more costly disasters and repairs. When a professional roofing company takes proper precautions and can work in winter, it’s definitely possible to get your roof replacement immediately if you need it.
Keeps warm air inside
So much of a home’s heated air can escape through your roof, especially if that roof is not properly installed, is damaged, doesn’t drain properly, or lacks insulation. Broken, curled, or missing shingles can drive up your heating bills significantly.
If you’re noticing your utilities costs creeping up and up, or if you realize that your home doesn’t feel as warm as it should, it may be time to consider a roof replacement. And if you do it now, it’ll start the savings that much sooner.
Gets done before spring and summer
Spring and summer are busy times, from family vacations to outdoor parties and more. Having a roof replacement during that time can be a real drag. Plus, that’s when demand for roof repairs is at its highest, which means higher prices, longer wait times and other inconveniences. And Michigan’s heavy rains are also tough on roofs. You don’t want to risk a leaky roof at the worst time of the year.
By contracting with a roofer in winter, you can get a jump on fixing issues before the spring rains arrive. You’ll have peace of mind come spring that your roof is in good shape. You’ll also have spring and summer free for more seasonal home improvements. Plus, your yard will be free of roofing materials and workers, so you can enjoy your outdoor spaces in a more relaxed way.
Disadvantages to a Winter Roof Replacement
Harder on roofing tools and materials
Michigan’s cold weather is tough on anything that runs on electricity and batteries. It affects how well tools like compressors and air guns function. Also, asphalt shingles can be impacted by low temperatures, so care needs to be taken when installing them.
This isn’t a deal breaker, by any means. But it pays to choose a roofing company that is well-known for precise work, experienced in dealing with Michigan winters, and honest enough to tell you when it’s too cold out to work on your roof. We believe in keeping homeowners informed and know exactly how to work in cold weather for optimal results, so you get a top-notch roof replacement, even in winter.
Challenging to schedule
While winter is often a slower time for roofers, it is not always a slow time for homeowners. Between the holidays, winter vacations, and simply a desire to relax at home with a warm fire blazing in the fireplace, many homeowners have full schedules.
Again, this is not a deal breaker. It’s simply good to be aware that it may take you a bit of juggling to arrange your schedule so that it works for both you and your roof contractor to schedule your roof replacement.
Dangerous for roofers
This biggest challenge with roof replacements is that winter weather is often poor for outdoor home improvements. Either super cold or super slippery conditions will make it hard, or even impossible, for roofers to climb on your roof that day.
While roofers are very experienced at climbing on roofs and have the equipment and know-how to do it safely, it’s smart to wait until your roof is as free of ice and snow as possible. And it’s wise to wait until it’s above freezing outside if possible, so your roofing crew are able to work comfortably. This may mean the roof replacement takes a few more days to get done than it might in sunny summer, but safety comes first, and your roofers will do better work for it.
Roof Replacements Can Be Done Any Time of Year
A new roof can improve your home’s value, boost its appearance, and give you peace of mind that your home is protected year-round. Our friendly, thorough, detailed roofing contractor team can put your mind at ease with a roof you’ll be able to rely on — winter, spring, summer, and fall. See why Detroit area homeowners love our work and schedule a free quote today.
