Do Roofers Replace Roofs in the Winter?
Cold Weather Can’t Wait: Why Winter Roofing Matters
Imagine waking up in a frozen house when winter storms come, and water is dripping from your ceiling. It’s the middle of winter, and your roof has suddenly decided to give up. You might think this is not the season for roofing work —but your roof doesn’t care what month it is. Waiting for spring is not always an option. That’s when you start asking: Can you replace a roof in winter? Do roofers replace roofs in the winter?
Let’s talk about why replacing roofs in winter is not only possible but sometimes necessary. Here’s what every homeowner needs to know about cold weather roof replacements. We’ll also cover the risks, solutions, and what cold weather roofer tips can make your job go smoothly.
Can You Replace a Roof in Winter?
Yes, roofers can replace roofs during winter. In fact, many licensed professionals work all year round, especially in areas like Toledo, Ohio, but winter jobs require special precautions:
✔ Temperature thresholds – Most roofing materials can be installed down to 20°F
✔ Snow removal – Roofers will clear work areas before starting
✔ Shingle sealing – Special adhesives ensure proper bonding in cold weather
✔ Shorter work days – Fewer daylight hours may extend project timeline
Pro Tip: Asphalt shingles become brittle below 40°F, so experienced crews handle them differently than in summer.
Winter Roofing Challenges (And How Pros Overcome Them)
1. Ice and Snow Management
- Roofers use snow rakes and heated blankets to create safe work areas
- Temporary covers protect exposed sections during multi-day projects
2. Material Handling
- Shingles are stored in heated trailers until installation
- Sealant strips may need hand-warming for proper adhesion
3. Worker Safety
- Non-slip boots and harness systems prevent falls on icy surfaces
- Frequent breaks prevent cold stress injuries
Benefits of Winter Roof Replacement
✅ Faster scheduling – Less competition for top roofing crews
✅ Potential cost savings – Some contractors offer winter discounts
✅ Immediate protection – Don’t wait for spring storms to cause more damage
✅ Easier to spot leaks – Ice dams clearly show problem areas
” We prefer winter roof replacements for commercial buildings because business operations often slow down during colder months.” – John R., Commercial Roofing Foreman
When to Postpone Until Spring
❌ During active snowstorms – Safety first
❌ Extreme cold warnings – Below 20°F is too cold for most materials
❌ If your roof has structural issues – Ice accumulation could be dangerous
What Do Roofers Do During the Off Season?
Winter used to be the “slow” season for roofers. But with changing weather and demand, more companies are staying active year-round. During colder months, roofers focus on:
- Interior repairs and inspections
- Insurance claim documentation
- Equipment maintenance
- Continuing education on new techniques
That means if you’re wondering whether roofers are available, the answer is: absolutely.
Winter Roof Replacement Cost Factors
Winter is sometimes a great time to book roofing jobs. Because it’s not peak season, you might save money depending on availability. However, commercial roof replacement timelines vary more significantly based on building size. Here are some factors need to know;
| Consideration | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Labor Costs | Higher | Often 5-15% lower |
| Material Costs | Standard | May need cold-weather products |
| Project Length | 2-3 days | May take 3-5 days |
| Warranty | Standard | Same coverage if installed properly |
Tip: Always ask for a winter-specific quote and ask how your roofer handles snow or ice delays. The best roofing contractors will walk you through the plan clearly.
Choosing a Cold Weather Roofer
Look for crews with:
🔹 Experience with winter installations
🔹 Proper cold-weather equipment
🔹 Local knowledge of snow load requirements
🔹 References from past winter projects
Warning: Be wary of “storm chaser” companies that follow winter weather – they often lack proper licensing and disappear after the job.
Let’s Fix Your Roof Before Winter Gets Worse
Your roof doesn’t take the winter off—so neither do we. Whether you’re dealing with an emergency leak, planning a full replacement, or just want to explore options, our team at ProCraft Home Products is ready to help. We’ve served the Toledo, OH community through snow, rain, and freezing temps.
As A+-rated roofers by the BBB and Owens Corning Preferred Contractors, we’re built for this.
📞 Call now or book a free winter roof inspection. Let’s stop the damage before it gets worse.
