You may have noticed damage to yourroof while checking the shingles and gutters. But can you do something aboutthe damage while it's still winter?
Roofing in cold weather is possible,despite the risks and complications. Read on to learn more about whether youshould replace your roof before the warm weather arrives.
TheWarning Signs of an Aging, Damaged Roof
Not sure if you need to install anew roof to begin with? Your roof is one of those things that will showapparent signs of damage right from the get-go.
For starters, if your roof is upthere in age, it's more likely you'll need to replace it in the near future. Onaverage, roofs last around
15 - 30 years. But this depends a lot on the materials as somelast longer than others.
What other signs indicate that youmay need roof repair in winter?
DamagedShingles
If the shingles are curling orwarping, it could mean that your roof is old and in need of replacing. Damagedor missing shingles can also be the result of poor installation.
Check to see whether the granulesfrom the shingles are shedding. Be sure to look in the gutters for shinglegranules, as well.
Damage to the shingles does notautomatically mean that you need an entirely new roof. But you will need to fixand replace the shingles to avoid more problems down the line.
FlashingDamage
It's easy to overlook the flashingin the areas of your roof that intersect. Flashing helps to redirect water awayfrom the roof to prevent it from accumulating. But when it's damaged, it canlead to serious water damage.
If you're experiencing leaks andnotice water puddles forming, check the flashing. If it's made from cement ortar, the flashing on your roof may be more susceptible to damage. But evenmetal flashing can rust, warp, and curl up over time.
Leaks& Drafts
Do your energy bills seem higherthis winter than in previous years?
If you're having to turn yourthermostat up higher than usual, there may be a problem with your roof. As morecold air seeps into your home, your HVAC system has to work harder to heat it.
There could be areas that haveweakened over time or even developed holes. This may be why you're experiencingdrafts or even full-blown water leaks. Any dark or sagging spots, peelingpaint, or rotting walls can point to roof damage.
Moss,Branches, & Wood Rot
Is there moss or algae growing onyour roof? While these pesky eyesores may not be cause for concern, you shouldremove them. If you allow them to build up over time, they could weaken or warpyour shingles and even cause water damage.
While other areas of the US battlesnow in the winter, Texas is notorious for its rain.
Checking for damage after a storm is pertinent ifyou want to prolong the lifetime of your roof.
Did a number of tree branches fallinto your yard and onto your roof during the last storm? This could beproblematic for your roof during future storms. Trees located in closeproximity to your home could pose a threat to your home as a whole.
Another thing you should look for iswood rot. If there patches of rotting or decaying wood on your roof, you'llneed to replace them as soon as possible.
TheComplications & Risks of Roofing in Cold Weather
Is your roof currently exhibitingany of the signs of damage we've discussed? If so, you may be wondering if roofrepair in winter is even an option at this point.
Roofing in cold weather has itscomplications. We'll explore those, as well as the risks, next.
Weather& Proper Installation
Weather is a major factor when itcomes to fixing or replacing your roof altogether in the winter.
While Texans generally don't have toworry about snow, rain and frost can still occur. These types of conditions caninterfere and make it harder to work on a roof. But believe it or not, theconditions need to be just right to properly install certain roofing materials.
If you were to install a rubberroof, for example, the weather would need to be in the high 40s (at least.)Colder temperatures could interfere with the adhesive's ability to bond to theroof. A freezing roof - or even ice and frost - can interfere with the nails,as well.
On the other hand, it's easier toinstall a metal roof in colder weather. This is because they don't requireadhesives like other roofing materials.
OtherRisks & Complications
All in all, warmer temperatures inthe 70s and 80s are ideal for roofing projects. But if you're experiencingproblems with your roof now in the winter, you might not be able to wait untilthe spring.
Keeping an eye on the weatherforecasts can certainly help. If bouts of warmer and drier weather in the 60sdo occur, it's a good time to call a contractor.
A contractor will be able to tellyou when it's too cold to work on your roof. In fact, cold weather can cause shinglesnot to adhere properly. There's also a higher risk of injury from slipping orfalling due to ice or rain.
Install a New Roof on Your Austin Home This Winter
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Do you need to repair or replaceyour roof? If you've been hesitant to kick off the process of getting a newroof, don't let the cold weather deter you.
Roofing in cold weather is possible.With the right consultation, you can finally replace your roof and put yourmind at ease once and for all.
Do you own a home or business inAustin, Texas and need advice from a professional roofer?
Contact us
today to find out more!
