It’s spring, and that means Roofers in Gig Harbor are getting back to work after a long winter. Roofers (and customers) are anxious to get started again, and homeowners may need substantial repairs after winter storms. Every spring, customers ask questions such as:
- When will it be warm enough to install the asphalt shingles I want?
- Will the shingles seal properly?
- Should we wait until it gets even warmer?
In this article, readers will get the answers to those questions, and a few more.
Cold Weather Roofing
Regardless of popular belief, it’s possible to install shingles no matter the outdoor temperature. Cold-weather roofing isn’t impossible, and it will not void the materials manufacturer’s warranty. However, there are some drawbacks to consider, and many roofers don’t like to work in the cold unless it’s an emergency. Below are some of the reasons why.
- Shingles get brittle in colder weather, increasing the risk of cracking when they’re formed over ridges or into valleys. It’s also likely that nails will go right through the shingle if the nail gun’s air pressure isn’t correctly set, or if shingles are improperly nailed. These problems are mitigated by awareness, but issues can occur.
- Roofers’ equipment doesn’t always work well when it’s cold. Air compressors don’t run efficiently, and condensation in air hoses can cause nail guns and other tools to freeze and fail.
- Shingles won’t seal well until spring. This issue isn’t serious unless there’s a severe storm that rips the shingles off, or unless debris ruins the sealing strip.
- Shingles may look rippled. This problem typically solves itself once the weather gets warmer and the shingles flatten out.
When is it Finally Warm Enough to Lay a New Roof?
The chance of the above listed problems declines significantly when the temperature stays above 30 degrees on a consistent basis. Shingles are more malleable, equipment works as it should, and the snow melts, making the roofer’s job safer. Shingle sealing might still be an issue, but there’s less risk of a storm blowing them away. If tRoofers in Gig Harbor say it is warm enough, trust them. A reliable roofer won’t compromise installation quality in order to get a job done sooner.
