The quick answer is it depends, if you live in Calgary, you are familiar with our unforgiving winter weather conditions. We experience snowstorms, Chinooks, heavy winds and temperatures often go into the negatives. Our Calgary roofers don’t recommend replacing your roof in the winter as the cold temperature makes materials more brittle and more prone to breaking. However, replacing and repairing your roof is possible during the colder months, roofers have to consider the severity of you’re your roofing problem and what type of roof you have.

Winter can cause significant damage to your roof, especially if you have an older roof. The main two issues Calgary home and business owners face include ice dams and heavy snowfall. Your shingles are more likely to get damaged due to the weight and pressure from snow accumulation. If the issue is not properly and promptly addressed, it can lead to leaks and serious internal damage to your property.

When temperatures go below freezing, your shingles are more likely to crack. Hailstorms from the spring and summer months can worsen the problem. Our expert roofers recommend roof inspections before and after winter. This ensures damage is addressed as soon as possible. Ice dams are another common issue for Calgarians. Our ever-changing weather patterns cause ice to melt and freeze again throughout the winter months. When heat escapes from your roof it melts snow, this snow turns to water and can collect in your eavestrough or throughout the lower layers of your roof. When temperatures decrease again, this puddle of water can freeze. The build-up increases the risk of your shingles cracking, this jeopardizes the safety of your property.

The structure of your roof and the materials used play a huge part in how your Calgary roofer will complete your winter roofing job.

• Sloped Roofs with asphalt shingles- Asphalt roofs are one of the most popular roofs in Calgary. However, installing asphalt shingles requires an expert touch. Your roofer has to hand seal each section individually or else you run the risk of leaks. They also need to apply the right amount of pressure when nailing down shingles or else they risk breaking or cracking the shingle. If you have an asphalt roof and need to repair or replace it, check the weather and book your service when temperatures are above freezing as this can reduce the possibility of your shingles breaking.
• Metal Roofs – Metal roofs are an excellent choice if you live in a colder climate, they are typically lightweight and have a much longer lifespan when compared to other roofing products. Metal roofs are also less prone to water damage as melting snow and ice slide right off. If you are looking to switch, Dedicated Roofing provides labor warranties and manufacturer warranties for up to 50 years for metal roofs.

Although conditions aren’t ideal, roofing in the wintertime has a few benefits. Most roofing companies in Calgary are in high demand during the summer, which means roofing in the summertime is more expensive. If you schedule a service in the colder months, you are more likely to experience lower costs, better availability and more flexible scheduling. Winter roofing also helps prepare your property for the rainy season, ensuring it is safe from leaks.

Replacing or repairing your roof in Calgary’s harsh winter weather conditions is no easy task; however, with the right roofer, it is possible! Our expert roofers can inspect your roof and determine if it is an emergency and if it needs immediate attention or if it can wait until the warmer months. Contact Dedicated Roofing and Exteriors and schedule a roof inspection, repair or replacement. We specialize in roof repairs and replacements and will make sure your property is protected for years to come. Contact us today if you need an emergency roofing repair, book online and get a free estimate, or call us at (403) 923-0000.