Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for residential roofing. Shingle roofs are economical, durable, easy to maintain and repair, and relatively long lasting. With proper maintenance and regular inspection, they should last about 20 years. Winter snow and ice dams followed by spring wind, rain, and hail storms can take a huge toll on your asphalt shingle roof. If yours is looking a little ragged and missing some shingles, or if it’s begun to leak or sag, you may be due for a full roof replacement. When’s the best time to do that? It may not be when you think.
Summer?
The beginning of summer is a really good time to get your roof replaced, after the spring storms have abated and before the blistering Iowa heat sets in. As the summer peaks, however, the high heat and humidity can affect the integrity of the roofing materials (as well as making it brutal for roofers). High heat can soften the asphalt in the shingles, making them less durable during installation and increasing the potential for immediate damage and wear. Most roofing companies replace roofs all year round, however, so if your roof is leaking or severely damaged, don’t wait to have it replaced.
Fall?
If you can wait until autumn, you’ll enjoy the best weather of the year for roof installation (when Iowa temperatures range between 45 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, dipping no lower than 40). These cooler temperatures and consistently dry days allow roof installers to work longer hours without getting overheated, and the mild weather makes installation easier. The fall conditions also allow shingles to seal effectively and prepare to take on the elements during the harsh winter. Because it’s the ideal time, fall is also one of the busiest times of the year for roof installation. If you are thinking of an autumn roof replacement, you should plan to have a roof inspection and estimate during the summer so you can reserve a spot in the fall schedule.
Winter?
For obvious reasons, winter isn’t the best time for Iowa roof replacements. Aside from the inconvenience of replacing a roof covered with snow and ice, the cold temperatures can make roofing materials hard and brittle. Shingles can crack during installation, and roofers can’t apply sealants as effectively. Shingles take much longer to adhere to each other in the cold than they do in warmer temperatures, which is less optimal for creating a good, leak-proof seal. However, during the winter, ice dams can cause significant damage and result in leaks and water infiltration, causing dangerous mold to form in your home. If your roof becomes seriously damaged or you experience leaks, do not hesitate to make plans to replace your roof as quickly as possible.
Spring?
If your roof is deteriorating or even has a few small problems, these issues will only worsen over the winter as the snow and ice pile up, melt, and refreeze. If you aren't having any problems with your roof now, however, but are expecting to replace it in the new year, spring can be a great time to schedule a replacement. It's not usually as busy a time in the roofing industry compared to summer and fall, so materials and labor may be less expensive, especially if you are flexible and able to work around the changeable weather.
Schedule Your Roof Replacement Now
Since late summer and early fall are the busiest times of the year for roofing contractors, it can be more expensive and more difficult to schedule your roof replacement. Once winter is right around the corner, roofers’ schedules start to fill up fast! If you want to get the best deals, schedule your roof to be replaced before this time.
Many homeowners don’t want to invest in a brand new roof. This often results in emergency repairs and an urgent need to get their long-overdue roof replacement scheduled. We do not recommend this! When you wait until your roof springs a leak or succumbs to another major problem, it’s very likely that these issues will damage other aspects of your home, and you could end up having to pay for a lot more than just your roof! Plus, having to replace your roof in the dead of winter or during the busiest roofing season can increase costs tremendously. Planning ahead and replacing your roof on time will allow you to make well-educated decisions about what kind of roof you want and get the best deals.
Roof Replacement/Installation in Ames, Iowa
Installing a new roof is a very large investment that will improve the look of your home on the outside and the comfort and efficiency inside. Take the time to do your research, hire a qualified roofing contractor, and carefully select your roofing materials to fit your home and your budget.
Hedrick Construction installs roofs on residential and commercial properties in and around Ames, Iowa. If you need your roof inspected, repaired, or replaced, contact us today for a free roofing estimate.
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