Homeowners that need roof repair need to understand the possibility of inclement weather and the effect it can have on the roof repair process. Roof repairs can be completed in many different conditions but we’re going to go through what conditions aren’t best for roof repairs and which conditions are best. If you’re getting a roof repair soon or plan on getting one in the future then knowing about inclement weather and the effect it has on the process of a roof repair is important. Let’s dive in as we give you everything you’ll need on this topic.
Can Roof Repairs Be Done In Inclement Weather?
One of the concerns that are brought up by both roof repair workers and customers is the possibility of inclement weather during their roof repair. Now, roof repairs are quite complex and they require exposing your home to the elements. Although the roof repair may be able to be completed in some inclement weather such as light rain, most repair companies will not attempt to do so.
This also means that most roof repairs cannot be done in snow or sleet either. A homeowner’s home is exposed during the roof repair process and allowing snow or sleet in would not be ideal. With that being said, most roof repairs can be completed in any season and temperature. Click here to learn more about roofing services.
Is It OK To Put A New Roof On In The Rain?
It’s not a great idea to have a new roof installed while it’s raining and most roof repair companies will not attempt to install a new roof while it’s raining. Putting a new roof on in the rain can result in your home getting wet and possibly even damaged. During the roof replacement or new roof installment, the home is left exposed while the old roof is no longer on and the new one is being placed on. It’s also not very safe for the roof repair company to work while it’s raining as it can make the job much more difficult. Roof repair is already a complex and dangerous job, so adding in inclement weather can definitely make things harder. Not being able to repair a roof in the rain can extend the roof repair time, but it helps to ensure your roof doesn’t see any water damage during the repair process due to the rain.
What Do Roofers Do If It Starts Raining?
Obviously, we can’t always predict the weather and sometimes situations occur where there is inclement weather, so you may be wondering what happens if it does start raining. Well, the first thing to remember is that if the roof repair company expects rain on the day your roof repair is supposed to take place then they will work in smaller sections than normal. This allows less of your home and roof exposed at a time, so if it does start raining then there’s less of a chance for damage to be done.
If it starts raining while roof repairs are taking place then the roof repair company will put tarps over any open area of your roof. These tarps help to protect your home and roof from any rainwater damage. The workers will have to stop working immediately and they won’t be able to resume until the rain stops.
Can You Roof Over Wet Plywood?
If it starts to rain or if the repair company decides to repair the roof in the rain then your plywood for your roof is exposed. Which of course gets them wet in the rain, which can cause more damage. It’s never a good idea to roof over wet plywood as this can cause the buildup of mold, mildew, and other problems that can cause more damage to your roof. It’s important to let your plywood roofing completely dry before roofing over the plywood.
Roof Repair In The Winter
Roof repair can technically be completed in every season, although most professionals will recommend roof repair to be done in the spring or summertime. This is because of the nicer weather that arrives which makes for great roof repair weather. However, this doesn’t mean that your roof can’t be repaired any other time of the year.
Roof repairs can happen in the wintertime, although there are some concerns that come with it. If the roof repair is being done somewhere in an extremely cold climate where there’s a lot of snowfall, ice, and high winds, then waiting until a warmer time of year might be best. The winter weather can make it more difficult to work, while also causing problems with the adhesion of the roof.
What Temperature Is Too Cold For Roofing?
Roof repairs can be done in the wintertime, but the temperature does have an effect on the roofing process. The ideal temperature to do roofing in is between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, However, the lowest temperature that roofing can be done in is 40 degrees Fahrenheit, because the adhesives used for the roof actually need the sunlight and heat for activation. Most roofers won’t even try to repair or replace your roof in temperatures that are below 40 degrees Fahrenheit for this reason.
Can and Should It Be Done?
Technically, yes roof repairs can be done in some slight rain, but anything more than that shouldn’t even be attempted. Roof repair companies are prepared with a plan and tarps in case of inclement weather approaches while they’re working on a repair or replacement. Most roof repair companies won’t even try to do any roof repairs in the rain no matter how light it is because it can still expose your plywood roofing to the water which can damage it.
Overall, roof repairs are best done in the warmer months due to the heat and sun helping the adhesion of the roof, plus the possibility of better weather. This doesn’t mean you can’t replace or repair your roof any other time though. It’s important that if you notice any signs that you need a roof repair you should call a roof repair company as soon as possible to have it handled to avoid further damage.