What’s the Best Time of Year to Replace Your Roof?
When properly installed and maintained, your roof can last from 10 to 50 years depending on the materials used. If you’ve noticed any issues and think it’s time to replace your roof, you’ll probably want to weigh a number of factors when deciding what to do next. While things like financing, roofer reputation and roofing material types might be the first things on your mind, you may want to consider the time of year as a factor that impacts your decision.
Why consider the time of year? Well, put plainly, some seasons are better than others when it comes to roof replacement.
Replacing your roof can happen any time of year. But there are some significant advantages (and disadvantages) associated with certain seasons. Winter, for example, is a difficult time to replace a roof in most of the US due to the weather. But, here in Southwest Florida, winter weather isn’t really a factor.
Read on to find out the pros and cons of each season to help you decide on the best time of year to replace your roof in Southwest Florida.
Roof Replacement in Winter (December, January, February)
While other parts of the country are dealing with ice and snow, we’re sitting pretty here in sunny, warm, Southwest Florida. Hurricane season is over for us, and most of the storms associated with summer and fall are no longer an issue.
Replacing your roof in winter allows for fewer (if any) weather-related disruptions. Additionally, the temperature is ideal for roof installation. Too much humidity, warmth, or moisture during installation can have negative effects on your roof and limit its longevity.
Most damage to roofing occurs during the hazardous seasons of summer and fall. With winter and its mild weather coming after a tumultuous six months of rain and wind, any damage that happens during that period can be repaired before the next rainy season.
Of course, if your roof needs replacing before the upcoming rainy season, choosing to wait until winter for a replacement leaves you dealing with leaks and the potential for worse damage during the worst weather of the year.
Roof Replacement in Spring (March, April, May)
If winter isn’t going to work, spring is your next best option. Technically, hurricane season begins in the spring. However, the level of hurricane and/or storm activity isn’t very high, so delays are less likely. Additionally, you’ll have a brand new roof by the time heavier rainfall comes.
The weather in the spring is still mild, like winter, with lower humidity and comfortable working conditions. It’s much easier to work longer hours during the spring than it is in summer and fall.
Unfortunately, spring is also when things start to get busier. People who need emergency replacements before heavy rains usually go for spring. If you schedule early enough you shouldn’t have a problem.
While spring weather is generally mild, things can always change. It’s possible for delays during spring roof replacements due to weather.
Roof Replacement in Summer (June, July, August)
As you’re well aware, Southwest Florida gets hot, sometimes insanely hot, in the summer. If you’re new to the area or otherwise unfamiliar with the weather here, summer might seem like the best roof replacement season. It’s actually one of the worst.
Excessive heat and humidity can result in unsafe working conditions. Further, the heat can make metal roofing materials so hot that touching them without gloves can be dangerous. Summer rainstorms and the possibility of hurricanes are also considerations that can potentially result in long work delays.
If you absolutely must replace your roof during the summer, the earlier you can schedule it, the better. The weather during the transition from spring to summer isn’t as bad. If your roof can wait, it’s highly advisable that you do so for the safety of everyone involved.
That said, if you do discover roof damage or leaks during the summer, it is important to get a professional out to take a look as soon as possible. Roof damage tends to get worse the longer you wait to address it, and the last thing you want is to have a compromised roof during the time of year you need it at its best.
Roof Replacement in Fall (September, October, November)
Hurricane season here in Southwest Florida runs into November. So, heavy rains and wind can be constant companions during these months. As such, doing any kind of work to the outside of your home is highly dependent upon there being stretches of time during the fall months where the weather is mild enough to get work done.
Because the fall weather here in Southwest Florida can be a bit temperamental, most roofers experience the same issues as they would in the summer months. So, it is entirely possible to get your roof replacement done during the fall. However, delays can be expected due to heat and storms.
Signs You Need an Urgent Roof Replacement Regardless of the Time of Year
While winter is best and spring is a close second, you need to know when replacement can’t wait. Sometimes the damage is so severe that postponing a replacement causes further damage to other parts of your home or compromises your family’s safety. If you notice any of the following, you may want to look into immediate replacement.
- Water or storm damage
- Curled shingles
- Sagging
- Discoloration
Should any of the above appear, or if something else has you worried about the state of your roof, call us right away. The most important factor when it comes to replacing your roof is the safety of you and your family, followed by preventing further damage to your home due to water or debris.
Call Roof RX for Your Roofing Needs in Southwest Florida
Your roof is an integral part of your home. It protects your home and its inhabitants from harsh weather and requires regular maintenance and care. At Roof RX we know roofs. Whether you require commercial roof repair or replacement, residential roofing services, inspections, or repairs, we can help.
We service Charlotte, Collier, Lee, and Sarasota Counties and have earned a great reputation by providing excellent work. If you’d like to know more about roofs or the best time of year to replace yours, contact us today.