Can You Install a Roof in Cold Weather?
Roof installation in cold weather presents unique challenges, leaving many homeowners and contractors wondering: Is it possible to install a roof in freezing conditions? The answer is yes, but success depends on adhering to specific precautions. Roofing in cold weather requires adjustments to ensure asphalt shingles maintain their integrity and functionality. This guide explains how to navigate these challenges and achieve a trouble-free installation.
Why Roofing in Cold Weather is Challenging
Impact of Cold on Asphalt Shingles
When temperatures drop below 40°F, asphalt shingles lose flexibility, making them prone to cracking or breaking during handling or installation. In addition, cold shingles tend to retain the shape of the surface they are stored on, complicating installation if not properly prepared.
Sealant Activation Issues
Asphalt shingles rely on a thermally activated sealant to bond properly. This sealant requires exposure to adequate sunlight and heat, typically over a few weeks, to activate and create a strong bond. Insufficient heat can prevent the sealant from working, making shingles more susceptible to wind blow-off.
Precautions for Cold Weather Roof Installation
- Handle Shingles with Care
- Avoid bending, dropping, or throwing shingles, as cold temperatures increase the likelihood of damage.
- Store shingles indoors or in a warm area before installation to help maintain their flexibility.
- Allow Shingles to Relax Before Installation
- Lay shingles flat and expose them to ambient temperatures to allow relaxation.
- If possible, let distorted shingles rest in sunlight for a few hours to flatten naturally.
- Use Proper Nailing Techniques
- Adjust nail guns to set nails snugly against the shingle surface without over-driving them.
- Ensure shingles lie flat during nailing to prevent nail heads from puncturing the surface.
- Avoid Overlapping Issues
- Leave a slight gap (up to 1/16 inch) between shingles to accommodate natural expansion during warming.
- Hand-Sealing for Better Results
- Apply approved asphalt roofing cement to each shingle tab when temperatures are too low for sealant activation.
- Focus on vulnerable areas such as eaves and rakes, which are more susceptible to wind damage.
Additional Tips for Winter Roof Maintenance
- Snow and Ice Removal
Heavy snowfall can damage shingles if snow or ice is improperly removed. Use non-abrasive tools and avoid applying pressure directly to shingles. - Careful Walking on Shingles
Cold-weather shingles are more prone to cracking underfoot, especially if they are uneven or slightly curved. Take caution when walking on the roof during inspections or maintenance. - Pre-Warming Ridge Cap Shingles
Ridge cap shingles require bending over the roof planes, which can cause cracking in cold weather. Store these shingles in a warm area before installation to improve flexibility.
Advantages of Modified Shingles for Cold Weather
SBS asphalt-modified shingles, like Atlas StormMaster shingles, are more resistant to cracking and easier to handle in colder temperatures. However, their sealants still depend on proper heat activation, requiring similar precautions as standard asphalt shingles during winter installation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping hand-sealing, especially in temperatures below 40°F.
- Stacking shingles improperly, which can cause them to retain a warped shape.
- Over-driving nails or nailing shingles while they are misaligned, increasing the risk of damage.
FAQs
1. What temperature is too cold for roofing?
Roofing becomes challenging below 40°F, but it can be done with the appropriate precautions, including hand-sealing shingles.
2. Do asphalt shingles perform well in freezing weather?
Yes, but their flexibility and sealant activation are affected. Proper handling and installation techniques are essential.
3. How long does it take for shingles to seal in winter?
Shingles require a few weeks of sufficient heat and sunlight for proper sealing. In colder months, hand-sealing may be necessary.
4. Can hand-sealing replace thermal activation?
Hand-sealing provides temporary protection in cold weather and is crucial when thermal activation is not possible.
5. What are the best shingles for cold climates?
SBS asphalt-modified shingles, such as Atlas StormMaster, are ideal for cold climates due to their enhanced flexibility and durability.
Work With Restoration Roofing
For all your roofing needs, trust the experts at Restoration Roofing. We’re more than just a Collierville TN roofing company; we’re your partners in home protection. Contact us today!
Give us a call at 901-854-3402 or fill out our Contact Us form and we will reach out to you with our next available inspection. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips on finding the best roofing contractor for you.
