Roofers' schedules
A sought-after contractor is often booked several weeks in advance. Spring and fall lengthen the wait between signing the contract and the first day of work. The date is chosen early, among the first steps of a roof replacement.
To get ahead of the line, take two precautions.
- Ask for your quotes a season before the time you want the work done.
- Have the contract state the period planned for the job.
What cold, heat and water do to materials
Asphalt shingles. Each one has an adhesive strip that bonds it to the row below. This strip is activated by the sun's heat. In cold weather, the bond takes longer, and the wind has more grip on the shingles until then.
Flat roof membranes. Torch-applied membranes handle the cold better. Self-adhesive products, glues and sealants handle it less well: each manufacturer sets a temperature below which they are not installed.
Water, in all its forms. Roofing materials do not install well on a wet surface. Rain, morning dew, frost and snow all slow down every job.
From spring to winter
In spring. The snow melts and reveals the winter's leaks. Roofers' phones start ringing. It is mild enough to work, but it rains often and schedules fill up quickly. If you already know your roof has reached that point, send your quote requests before the end of winter.
In summer. The days are long and the roof is dry. A heat wave has its downside, though: shingles soften and keep footprints. Crews then start early to get ahead of the strong sun.
In fall. Demand is high: many owners want their roof replaced before the first snow. Roofers are often fully booked. The first weeks are well suited to the work. After that, daylight fades earlier, and mornings become cold and damp.
In winter. The job remains feasible, especially on a flat roof. The work gets heavier: the crew has to remove snow and ice, the open sections are smaller, and night falls quickly. For shingles, several roofers put the work off when nothing is urgent. If your roof cannot wait, have them explain how adhesion will be ensured and what the manufacturer requires for cold-weather installation.
Frequently asked questions
Can shingles be installed in the middle of winter?
Yes, with precautions. In the cold, shingles break more easily and their adhesive strip takes time to set. Ask us what is done to compensate, and check with us whether the manufacturer's warranty covers a winter installation.
My roof is old but watertight. Can it get through another winter?
This is often possible, but an examination of the roof must confirm it first. Have us look at the roof before deciding to wait until spring.
How far ahead should I get in touch?
The lead time varies with the roofer and the time of year. In spring and fall, plan for several weeks between the signed contract and the crew's arrival.
What is the best time to replace a roof?
The best time runs from late spring to early fall, in mild, dry weather. Roofers are very busy then. Ask for your quotes a few months earlier. Winter does not prevent a roof replacement, but it requires precautions that depend on the type of roof.