Question & Answer: Can I re-shingle my home in the winter?

By Dave Locklear
dave@arrowstarroofing.com

One of the more common seasonal questions we receive in the roofing business here in Oklahoma City has to do with the seasonal limitations of roofing. Specifically, people regularly ask, “Can I re-shingle my home in the winter?”

The short answer is yes, you can… but certain guidelines and precautions should be followed by homeowners to ensure a proper roofing installation. Although roofing can be done almost any time of the year in Oklahoma (in dry weather, that is), December through February can be particularly tricky for contractors. Here are a few tips and guidelines for homeowners to ensure their projects are being completed properly:

1. When your material is delivered, take time to read the back of one of the shingle packages. Here you can find installation instructions, including best installation temperature and other relevant seasonal information. Keep an eye on your contractor as the job is being completed, and make sure they are following the instructions to the letter.
2. Each shingle has a sticky tar strip on its back that helps adhere it to the shingle below. This requires heat. In spring and summer, the adhesion process may only take a few hours. Obviously, in the winter, this may take several weeks. If you are roofing in extreme cold, a small daub of caulking cement may need to be added beneath each shingle to ensure proper adhesion.
3. Nail placement on shingles is critical in winter months. If nailed too high above the shadow lines, shingles can easily blow off during gusts of wind.

NOTES: As a rule of thumb, winter roofing projects are best completed when the temperature is 40°F or rising. Also, because roofing companies tend to be slower in winter months, homeowners can typically get better deals on their projects. If you are looking to save money on your roof and are willing to carefully monitor a contractor’s work, the choice to re-roof in wintertime can prove very advantageous!

OKC Homeowners: Is your roof ready for winter?

Your Central Oklahoma home’s roof is the first line of defense against rain, snow, cold air and harsh weather. To keep it in top shape, experts recommend performing a roof inspection twice a year.

Look for missing shingles or deteriorated flashing (the metal that seals bends and joints on skylights, chimneys, etc.). More than 90 percent of roof damage occurs in these two areas and catching it early can be key to preventing bigger problems. Try these additional tips:

When To Inspect

Check your roof in spring, and then again in the fall or winter, before the worst weather seasons set in.

What To Look For

• Examine the roof edge for wind damage or damage caused by driving rain and ice dams. The dams occur when water freezes and backs up under the roofing system.

• Inspect your roof for signs of mold, algae and mildew growth. Signs include dark spots and discoloration on the shingles.

Roof Maintenance

Leaves, sticks and other debris can cause water to back up and flow under a roof, so be sure to clean out your gutters and roof drains regularly. Also be sure to check that all gutters are securely fastened to the house and that downspouts are pointing away from your home.

If You Spot Damage

If your inspection reveals roof damage, be sure to work with professional roof contractors who are bonded, insured and use quality materials. They can keep you from having to spend money on costly future repairs and prolong the life of your roof.

Arrowstar Roofing & Construction is fully bonded and insured, offering free estimates for home and business owners in the Metro Oklahoma City and surrounding area. With over 35 years experience as third-generation roofing professionals, Arrowstar is more than capable of identifying key roof and structural problems that it can address through budget-friendly repair, maintenance and re-roofing options.

Inspecting your roof twice a year can protect your home from serious Oklahoma weather damage. If you’re not confident—or unable—to inspect your roof personally, Arrowstar Roofing & Construction also offers annual maintenance contracts. According to your needs, Arrowstar will come out yearly, biannually or quarterly to inspect your roof for damage. In addition to providing you with a detailed written report of your roof’s condition, we’ll also clear your roof and gutters of all debris and perform minor repairs as part of your maintenance contract… informing you if more serious work is potentially needed.

For a free estimate, or more information on Arrowstar’s annual maintenance contracts, log on to www.arrowstarroofing.com or call us today at (405) 365-6577.