Fall is the Perfect Season to Install a New Roof
Sep 18, 2017As we enter fall, now is the perfect time of year for roof installation. “The cooler temperatures allow roof installers to work longer hours without getting overheated, and the mild weather makes installation easier,” said Scott Cline, owner of J&B Construction. “Furthermore, all materials will be installed under ideal weather conditions, ensuring better quality of installation and improving your new roof’s longevity.”
Scott further explains the several additional benefits of installing a new roof in autumn.
First, summer wind and rain can take a toll on your roof, especially when it’s approaching the end of its expected lifespan. Therefore, it’s important to inspect your roof at summer’s end, as well as immediately after a severe storm, and take care of problems promptly.
“New roofing systems are best installed on a clear day when the temperature is above 45 degrees Fahrenheit,” he said. This is especially true if you’re installing asphalt shingles, the most popular roof material in America. This optimal temperature allows the shingle’s seal strips to melt and adhere properly due to the ambient warmth, a process known as thermal sealing.
Conversely, as the air grows colder, shingles tend to become brittle and more difficult to work with. Shingle manufacturers typically recommend installation of their products at temperatures of 26 degrees Fahrenheit or above. “It is much easier to break a cold, brittle shingle when fastening it in place, meaning that hand nailing has to take the place of roofing guns, making the job more complicated and slower,” Scott said.
It’s crucial that the shingles are properly sealed before winter arrives. That way, they will be ready to form an airtight and moisture-resistant barrier against frigid temperatures. Moreover, they are less likely to be blown off by chilly winds.
Another reason to take care of roof replacement in autumn is that once winter storms start up, any existing small holes or leaks will almost inevitably get worse. When you combine this with the weight of a heavy snowfall or the danger of ice dams, you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
Lastly, if you reroof in the fall, you can save money on heating bills and keep your family cozy in winter. “If your HVAC system is located in the attic, a new roof will help it operate at peak effectiveness,” he said. Roof replacement may also qualify you to receive a federal tax credit for energy efficiency, applicable to the roofing material.
“Autumn offers great weather for roof installation because the summer storms are over and Old Man Winter is still at bay, giving you the chance to prepare your home for snow, ice, and cold temperatures,” Scott said.