Challenges of Installing Shingles in Cold Weather
Handling Shingles in the Cold
Shingles are made of asphalt, which can become stiff and brittle when temperatures drop. This makes them more prone to cracking during handling. Proper storage and preparation are essential to prevent damage. That's why it's key, when searching Roofers Near me, you make sure they are a legitimate roofing company that handles these situations properly.
Key Tips for Handling Cold Shingles:
Store Flat: Shingles must lay flat during storage. Avoid resting them over ridges, which can cause them to warp temporarily. Warped shingles can create uneven surfaces on your roof.
Keep Them Warm: To ensure shingles remain pliable, professional roofers often use innovative methods, like placing heaters in tents over shingle pallets. When searching for a “roofer near me,” ask about their cold-weather storage practices to ensure they follow these best practices.
Sealant Activation
Shingle installation in cold weather comes with the challenge of sealant activation. Shingles have adhesive strips designed to bond them together, creating a weatherproof seal. However, cold temperatures can delay this activation process.
What to Expect:
In regions like Alabama, where temperatures rarely stay below freezing for extended periods, sealant activation usually occurs when temperatures rise during the day.
In colder climates, where freezing temperatures persist, roofers may need to use asphalt cement to temporarily bond shingles. This manual sealing ensures the roof remains secure until the sealant naturally activates in warmer conditions.
Shingle Shrinkage
Asphalt shingles, like many materials, expand and contract with temperature changes. During installation, roofers must leave small gaps between shingles to accommodate this movement. Failure to account for shrinkage could result in shingles buckling or overlapping as they expand. Besides the most prevalent way of leaks, which are roof leaks through pipes boots, this is another area that leads to leaks in the roof. "Roof repair near me" is another way to find great companies around your area.
Cold Weather and Shingle Warranties
A common misconception is that installing shingles in winter voids their warranties. This is not true. Manufacturer warranties depend on whether installation guidelines are followed, not the season of installation.
When Warranties Don’t Apply: If a winter storm causes shingles to blow off before the sealant has a chance to activate, this would not qualify as a warranty claim.
When Warranties Apply: If shingles fail after sealant activation, such as in summer, the manufacturer’s warranty typically covers the issue—regardless of when the roof was installed.
Always confirm that your roofing contractor follows the manufacturer’s cold-weather installation guidelines to ensure your warranty remains valid.
Why Alabama’s Winters Are Unique for Roofing
Unlike northern climates, where freezing temperatures can last for weeks, Alabama’s winter weather is relatively mild. A typical cold day might have lows in the 20s but warm up to the 40s or higher by 3pm. This fluctuation often allows roofers to work without needing additional steps like manual sealing, as the natural warming process helps activate shingle adhesives. Most manufacturers advise not to roof a house when temperatures that day stay below 40 degrees. Luckily for us Alabamians, we typically have highs in the 40s, 50s and 60s for much of winter.
Conclusion: Choose a Professional Master Elite Roofer for Cold-Weather Installation
While shingles can be installed in cold weather, success depends on proper handling, storage, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. Whether you’re in the midst of Alabama’s unpredictable winter or planning ahead for warmer months, make sure your chosen roofing contractor has the expertise and tools to get the job done right.
When searching for a “roofer near me,” don’t hesitate to ask about their experience with cold-weather installations. This ensures your roof will be ready to protect your home no matter the season.
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