A Guide to Roofing in Winter

As temperatures dip and Tennessee property owners look at construction projects, it’s natural to consider the impact of weather conditions on the pace of work. In this month’s blog, we look at the pros and cons of winter roof repair or installation. Keep in mind, some of this will not apply to all roofing companies in your area, but it is good information to have if you are shopping around for a contractor.

The Pros and Cons of Winter Roof Installation or Repair

roofing in winterAlthough the first assumption may be that winter is a bad time to plan a construction project, there can be some benefits to pushing your project forward when it’s cold outside.

Pro: Roof Replacement Cost

In the construction industry, there are slow and busy work seasons. Roofers may adjust their labor charges based on the volume of projects on their calendars. From the consumer perspective, winter can be a great time to get a roof installed because it is typically a slow season for contractors. Generally, you can get a better price now rather than waiting until they have more work than they need to keep the lights on. In accordance with the law of supply and demand, during a slow season, competition for roofing and construction jobs is higher. Hence, giving you a reason to schedule your install during the off-season. Roofing materials prices are also impacted by the calendar.

Pro: Fewer Delays in Starting Projects

During busy work seasons, some contractors can, unfortunately, face delays not related to the climate so much as having a list of construction jobs needing to be done to meet tight deadlines or emergency repair needs. With fewer projects in the queue during slower work seasons, property owners may be able to get construction completed with less stress and frustration, seeing their structures finalized more expeditiously. In the case of retailers, for example, construction can be finished in time for tenants to move in before THEIR busy season starts in warmer months when more shoppers finish paying off those Christmas credit card statements, get their tax refund check, and feel like getting out and about during the thaw. When choosing a construction and roofing company, you want to make sure you hire a contractor who will NOT leave you waiting in limbo, even during busy times.

Pro: Winter is a Less Busy Time for Everyone

It’s perfectly natural that if you’re about to embark on a construction project, you want to be around to follow the progress. During the summer, some people delay the start of roof installations or new constructions due to summer vacations or plans for Memorial, Independence and Labor Day holidays. Beyond Christmas and New Year’s, the winter offers a period of several months without such potential interruptions.

Con: Weather in the Winter is not Always Accommodating to Construction

Here in the South, we’re accustomed to cold, wet winters. Rainy days can obviously have an impact on the ability to perform some installations. The season always seems focused more on Roofing Repairs as tenants of buildings deal with the intrusion of the elements due to subpar construction or the eventuality of normal wear and tear without routine maintenance. Rain can render sloped areas slippery, adding potential hazard, so great care must be taken to protect worker safety. Although rare, snow and ice events can also incapacitate roads, affecting the ability of people to travel to work sites. Luckily, we do live in the Southern states and aren’t as affected by the elements.

Con: Weather and temperature related restrictions on roofing materials and tools

Some roofing materials require particular weather and temperature conditions, in order to ensure optimal performance. If these manufacturer specifications are not followed, you will end up with a failing roof very fast. Outside temperatures can affect sealing and the ability of adhesives to dry. Metal shingles and standing seam roofs may be installed in any weather, including cold temperatures. Thermoplastic single ply membranes (TPO / PVC) with heat-welded seams can also be installed in cold weather.

Our products include roofing products from manufacturers such as GAF, Duro-Last, Mule-Hide, Genflex, and Star Building Systems.

Roofing Chattanooga: Winter Roofing Projects

These are just a few of the benefits and limitations of winter roofing. Regardless of WHEN your project is planned, you want to have confidence that your project is in the hands of the best company. Call Tennessee Roofing and Construction at 423-842-8826 or contact us online.

Tennessee Roofing & Construction, Inc. provides roofing and construction services such in Chattanooga and around the Tennessee communities of Hixson, Cleveland, Dayton, Dunlap, Knoxville, Kimball, and South Pittsburg. We also service Dalton and Trenton Georgia, and Bridgeport Alabama.