Thinking about replacing your roof this winter but not sure if it’s possible? You’re not alone. Many homeowners wonder if roofing can be done during the colder months. The good news: it can be—with the right team and materials. Here’s the scoop on winter roof replacement on Long Island.
First thing, first. Do you even need a roof replacement?
5 Signs You Might Need a Winter Roof Replacement ASAP
Sometimes, a roof replacement can’t wait until spring. Here are five urgent signs that you may need a winter roof replacement right away:
- Water Damage or Leaks: If you notice water stains on your ceilings or walls, or active leaks after storms, your roof may have serious issues. Water infiltration can cause damage to your home’s structure, insulation, and even electrical systems if left unchecked.
- Storm Damage: Long Island winter storms can do a lot of damage to your roof, with heavy snow, strong winds, and falling branches.
- Missing or Damaged Shingles: If your home’s shingles are cracked, curled, or missing, water and ice can get into your roof.
- Sagging Roof Deck: A sagging roof deck usually means it’s gone bad, many times because of prolonged water exposure, rotting wood, or heavy snow. This issue demands immediate attention to avoid a potential roof collapse.
- Mold or Mildew Growth: Persistent moisture from leaks can lead to mold and mildew, which not only damages your home’s interior but also poses serious health risks. Addressing roofing problems promptly can prevent this hazardous situation.
For more warning signs and tips, check out our full blog on roof replacement warning signs to look out for.
Why Homeowners Worry About Winter Roofing Replacement
So maybe your roof has some of our expert telltale signs that you need a new roof sooner rather than later. Looking at the window and watching the forecast may have you worried that you need to wait months until Sprint–but you don’t.
We get it—winter weather can be unpredictable. We hear it all the time that Homeowners worry about delays from snowstorms, whether shingles will seal properly, or if cold temperatures will affect installation quality. The truth is, professional roofers have the tools and techniques to handle winter installs like pros.
To help ease your worries, we’ve added some of the top questions we get from customers looking to replace their roofs this season.
Winter Roof Replacement Questions—Answered!
Will cold weather ruin my new roof?
No! Today’s roofing materials are engineered to perform in all seasons, including winter.
Can roofs REALLY be replaced in the winter? Do roofers work when it’s snowing?
Yes, as long as the weather is manageable. Light snow isn’t a major obstacle for experienced crews.
Is winter roofing more expensive?
Not necessarily. Off-season pricing often makes winter roofing more budget-friendly.
Will my shingles seal properly in cold weather?
Professional roofers use hand-sealing techniques and specialized adhesives designed for cold temperatures to ensure a secure fit.
Is it safe for roofers to work in winter?
Absolutely. Roofing crews follow strict safety protocols, including harnesses, weather monitoring, and protective gear.
Will it be hard to find a Long Island company to do roofing in the winter?
The winter months are usually quieter for roofing companies, so you’ll likely get quicker service. PLUS, off-season projects often come with better pricing or financing rates–saving you money on materials and labor.
How long does a winter roof replacement take?
The timeline depends on the roof size, materials used, and weather conditions. Most projects wrap up in a few days when weather permits.
What happens if it snows during the project?
Projects are scheduled during clear, dry days, but if it snows, roofing teams will pause work until conditions improve. They’ll also clear snow from the roof before resuming the installation.
How cold is too cold to install my new roof?
It depends on how low the temps are. These are the best temperatures for installing different types of shingles.
- Asphalt Shingles: Best installed above 45°F (7°C); adhesives need warmth to seal.
- Wood Shingles/Shakes: Ideal between 40-85°F (4-29°C); prevents splitting and cracking.
- Metal Roofing: Can be installed anytime above freezing.
- Synthetic/Composite Shingles: Best between 40-85°F (4-29°C); keeps flexibility and durability.
Pro Tip: At Unified Home Remodeling, we offer top-quality asphalt shingles from trusted brands, including CertainTeed Landmark shingles, Owens Corning Duration® shingles, GAF Timberline® HDZ™ shingles, and TAMKO Heritage Proline Titan XT™ shingles. These lines are built to last, offering durability and year-round weather protection.
With so many top brands in our showrooms, it can be hard to choose. Take the time to read our expert comparison blogs.
- IKO Dynasty vs. GAF Timberline HDZ
- CertainTeed Landmark vs. GAF Timberline HDZ
- CertainTeed Landmark vs. Owens Corning Duration
- Owens Corning Duration and GAF Timberline HDZ
- Not seeing a comparison article? Get In Touch with us at (888) 631-2131, and we’ll give you a hand.
Winter Roofing Replacement Challenges to Expect in Long Island
Winter roof replacement comes with unique challenges that require expert handling.
Freezing temperatures can make asphalt shingles brittle, increasing the risk of cracking during installation. Roofers counter this by using specialized tools and warming techniques to keep materials flexible.
Sealing can also be tricky! Heat is necessary for many roofing materials to bond, so professional roofers like Unified Home Remodeling use hand-sealing methods or cold-weather adhesives to ensure a secure fit despite the chill.
Weather delays are another common issue. Heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and high winds can halt roofing projects. Crews monitor forecasts closely and work during clear weather windows to minimize disruptions.
Ice build-up can cause ice dams, where water backs up and leaks into the home. Roofers combat this by improving attic insulation and ensuring proper ventilation during the project.
Winter also means shorter workdays due to limited daylight, requiring crews to work efficiently while maintaining strict safety protocols. Cold tools and materials can further complicate the process, so roofers often store materials in heated areas or use winter-grade products to keep the job on track.
We Believe That Replacing Your Roof In the Winter Makes Sense
Replacing your roof in the winter may seem tricky, but with experienced professionals, it’s completely doable. Addressing roofing issues now can prevent costly damage inside your home and keep your home warm, safe, and dry throughout the season.
Take the Next Step and Call Unified Home Remodeling
Why wait for warmer weather when you can protect your home today? Contact Unified Home Remodeling for expert winter roof replacement services on Long Island. Our skilled team is ready to ensure your home stays secure, no matter the season. With a 99.6% customer satisfaction rating and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, there’s no better local roofing installation contractor to hire!