When is the Best Time to Replace Roof Shingles?

The best time to replace roof shingles is in fall

Perhaps you’ve glanced up at your roof recently and noticed things aren’t looking exactly like they used to. You’re worried that some of the shingles are no longer in the best condition, but is now the right time to get those shingles replaced?

Best Time of Year to Install Shingles

The best time to get any work done on your roof is when you’ve planned ahead for it. Ideally – you’d be able to prepare to make sure you have the best weather conditions for the installation process, and have taken the time to research the best pricing on materials and labor.

If you have the luxury of planning ahead for getting your shingles replaced, we recommend booking your roofing contractor for the fall or early spring. Fall is the best time to replace roof shingles. The more mild the weather conditions, the better the roofing contractor can work – with the least amount of risk involved.

There’s also technical reasons for preferring the milder months to replace roof shingles. When shingles are replaced, they need time and warmth to form a thermal seal – which will thoroughly protect your home from the different elements. However, life doesn’t always work out the way we plan. You may be looking at the roof and thinking something needs to be done, even if it is mid-winter or the height of summer. Can you still get your shingles replaced in these weather conditions?

The Importance of Roof Inspections

Before you do anything, we recommend you schedule a roof inspection with a professional roofing contractor. This will help you get a firm grasp on the situation and the next steps that need to be taken. A & J Reliable, Inc. offers free roof inspections during which we will thoroughly inspect your shingles and all aspects of your roofing structure.

When to Replace Shingles

The following are warning signs to look out for to know when it’s time for your shingles to be replaced:

  • Curling or clawing shingles
  • Broken, cracked or missing shingles
  • Buckling shingles
  • Bald spots on the shingles where the granules are missing

Shingle Repair vs. Replacement

If you notice any of the warning signs listed above, we recommend contacting a professional roofing contractor to help determine the extent of any damage. An inspection will show whether there’s any underlying damage to the roof below the shingles. The contractor will help you decide whether you need to replace your shingles entirely or if there is a possibility for them to just be repaired.

Asphalt shingles can be patched (and re-patched) over the course of their life, but it may be better for the health of your roofing foundation to simply replace the shingles. A roof inspection will allow the roofing contractor to provide clear and honest advice on the possible options available with the current condition of your shingles.

Can you replace shingles in the winter?

As noted above, fall is considered the ideal time to replace roof shingles. While it may not be ideal, it is still possible to replace your shingles during the winter months if needed. Here are some factors to consider when replacing your shingles in the winter:

Replacing Shingles in Winter

Preparing to work on a roof in winter can involve extra work for your roofer. For example, they may need to clear snow and ice from the roof before starting work. There’s also less daylight hours for your roofers to work in. Make sure you factor in more time required to replace shingles. You should also be prepared for any delays, as your roofer will be unable to continue work if the weather takes a drastic turn. We suggest working with your contractor to try and schedule your shingle replacement around the weather forecast as much as possible.

What temperature is too cold to replace roof shingles?

Asphalt shingles are best installed at temperatures between 40-85 degrees. While there are some precautions your roofer can take, the risk when working in colder conditions is that shingles will break. As mentioned above, it is also more difficult for shingles to seal in colder weather. Depending on conditions, your roofer may need to hand seal the shingles, which will mean more work. Consult your roofer about the best options for working in sub-40 temperatures.

What temperature is too hot to replace roof shingles?

Given the difficulty in replacing shingles in the winter, you may think summer would be a great time to replace your shingles. However, the ideal temperature range for replacing shingles is between 40-85 degrees. Similar to colder weather conditions, shingles can also be difficult to work with in hot temperatures. Some common issues include: shingles sticking together, shingles damaging more easily, and shingles tearing during installation. This is why we recommend shingle repair and installation work in early spring or the fall, when temperature conditions are mild.

Professional Shingle Replacement

Whatever the time of year you end up needing roof work done, working with a professional roofing contractor will ensure the work is done quickly and to a high standard. A & J Reliable, Inc. serves New York and New Jersey — and has extensive experience of working on roofs in every season. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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