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The Top 10 Reasons to Get a Roof Before Winter

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As the days gradually grow shorter and the leaves begin to change color, homeowners across the Great Lake State begin to prepare for winter’s arrival. With colder, snowy days on the horizon, Dearborn residents begin to stock up on warm clothing, check their furnaces, and invest in winter tires. But the single best step you can take to prepare for the harsh weather is to get a new roof before winter. Below are the top ten reasons to complete your roofing in Dearborn MI before winter.

1) Plenty of roofing specialists

Attempting to secure a new roof in the middle of winter can prove to be a challenge. Some Michigan roofing companies take an extended holiday or close early, while others employ workers who travel to southern states during the winter where weather conditions are less likely to interfere with regular work. You may find yourself competing for a reduced pool of available roofing technicians, which can lead to delays.

The good news is that roofers are often accustomed to working overtime during the spring, summer, and fall months when weather conditions are ideal for roof installations. The pool of available roofing resources is larger in the fall and it’s typically easier to schedule your project at a time that’s convenient for you and your family.

Roofing Dearborn MI

2) Complete your roofing faster

Depending on the size of your home or office building, it can take anywhere from one to several days to install a new roof. The total time needed to install your roof will be longer if poor winter weather interferes with the installation process.

Weather Atlas points to October as one of the most pleasant months of the year from a temperature and precipitation standpoint. There is still ample sunshine and rainfall and snowfall are relatively light. This means fewer delays and a faster completion time for most roofing projects.

3) Fewer safety risks for workers

When snow, ice, and moisture accumulate on your roof, conditions can become hazardous for roofers. In Dearborn, snow and ice are the most prevalent in December, January, and February. Here are some of the most common risks roofers face when working in the winter:

  • Hypothermia: Overexposure to cold winter temperatures can lead to hypothermia and frostbite.
  • Slips and falls: An icy roof – especially a sloped icy roof – can leave technicians at a heightened risk of slips and falls.
  • Back injuries: When snow accumulates on an existing roof, technicians have to shovel it off, potentially leading to back injuries.
  • Roof overload: An old or partially installed roof can collapse under the weight of heavy snow, heightening fall risks for workers.
  • Visibility issues: Snow, rain, and fog can impede visibility, making it more difficult to notice skylights, roof holes, and vents.

By scheduling your new roof to be installed before winter arrives, you help reduce safety risks for everyone involved in your roofing project. Remember to always check to confirm that your roofer is fully licensed and insured. Even if your roof is installed on a clear, dry day, there are still safety risks involved with roofing in Dearborn, MI. Choosing a fly-by-night roofer that is not licensed or insured could leave you liable if a worker is injured on your property.

4) Some roofing tools work best before winter

The crew who installs your roof will likely use a variety of devices and tools to complete your project. The functionality of some of these devices can be impacted by cold temperatures and moisture that are prevalent during the winter months. Here are a few examples of devices that may be affected by winter weather:

  • Nail guns: Potential problems include obstructed airlines, poor charging, and inadequate nail penetration.
  • Air compressors: Some tools require air compressors, which are prone to frozen condensation and blockages during cold weather.
  • Ladders: The rungs of a ladder can become coated with moisture or icy during the winter, creating a fall hazard for technicians.

Roof Dearborn MI

5) Choose from a wider variety of roof options

There are more roof options than ever for homeowners and business owners. You can choose from flat roofs, sloped roofs, and a host of different shingle materials. Some roof types, such as metal roofs, are relatively easy to install during the winter. However, there are some roof types that should not be installed during cold weather. Some flat roof styles, or any roofing type that requires the use of adhesives should be installed before winter to allow the adhesive to safely bond to the roof.

The best thing to do if you have questions about a particular roof type is to contact a company that specializes in roofing in Dearborn, Michigan. Let them know which shingle type and roof style you prefer and ask if they have any recommendations regarding the best season for installation.

6) Shingles are more flexible before winter

While shingles can be installed during any season, the process can become more challenging when temperatures are extremely hot or cold. Wintertime can be especially difficult because frigid weather can cause some asphalt shingles to become less flexible and more brittle. This can make it harder for your roofers to cut and customize your shingles

Fall is an ideal time to install a roof because temperatures tend to be more moderate. As a bonus, roofers don’t have to contend with high winds as much in the fall, reducing the likelihood that shingles could be whisked away with a strong gust of wind.

7) Boost your home’s energy efficiency

If you are like most homeowners, you likely notice a spike in your gas and electric bill during the winter months. The cost to heat your home can skyrocket even more if you have a leak or another defect in your roof.

A new roof can boost your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your utility bills. This is especially important as you head into the frigid months of winter when your utility bills are the highest. In addition to choosing energy-efficient shingles and materials, the process of replacing or adding insulation will further lower your bills.

Dearborn MI Roofing

8) Roofers can perform their jobs more easily

When winter weather hits, roofing technicians have to dress to protect themselves from the elements. In most cases, this means a heavy coat, thick gloves, headgear, and insulated work boots. The addition of heavier gear can make it more difficult for roofers to move about freely on your roof.

While roofing crews still wear protective gear and clothing during the summer and fall, their clothing is lighter weight, enabling them to perform their jobs more efficiently. And without heavy gloves on their hands, they can use roofing tools with greater ease.

9) Waiting can make small roofing problems worse

If you find yourself not wanting to face the prospect of roof repair or replacement, you are not alone. Installing a new roof rarely tops a homeowner’s bucket list of things they want to do before winter. Unfortunately, procrastinating can cause small leaks to turn into large ones and may ultimately compromise your well-being.

Rather than waiting for a costly emergency to develop in the middle of winter, it’s best to schedule an evaluation in the fall. You may even discover that you don’t need a new roof if you make some minor repairs. By taking a proactive approach, you can minimize future problems and save on roofing costs.

10) Enjoy peace of mind

A defective roof can make life at home cold, uncomfortable, and unsafe for you and your family. If moisture is entering your home through a hole or leak, it can cause mold or mildew to develop. This can ultimately leave your family at greater risk for respiratory problems and infection.

When you complete your roof installation in the fall, you greatly reduce the possibility of leaks or problems. You can move forward into winter knowing you and your family are protected from the harsh elements. And if an issue does arise, your new roof should be under warranty.

The Bottom Line on Getting a Roof Before Winter

Delays, safety risks, and compromised comfort are issues that you can minimize by getting a roof before winter. By scheduling your new roof installation during the fall, you can rest assured that you and your family will be protected from the elements when cold weather arrives.

The single best way you can ensure your satisfaction with your new roof is to choose a roofing company with a proven track record of success. By selecting an experienced roofer, you can rest assured that your roof will feature the highest quality materials and workmanship.

To discover why we are Dearborn’s most trusted roofing company, we invite you to reach out to us for a complimentary estimate. Whether you are in need of roofing repair, a roof replacement, or a roof for a newly constructed home, we have the resources to install the roof of your dreams quickly and professionally. We look forward to installing a roof that will stand the test of time for you and your family!