Roofing materials that are chill in the cold

By Emma Peterson.

Learn about the top three materials to use when reroofing in the off-season.

Most people try to organize their reroofing projects around the summer months, when the weather is warmer and easier to work in. But not every reroof sticks to a neat timeline and some homeowners might need to have contracting work done in the winter. With dropping temperatures and harsher weather, this can pose some unique challenges.  

For example, you might need to consider altering your installation practices in the winter. This is because some products like asphalt are known to become brittle and prone to breakage at colder temperatures. There are ways you can mitigate this, the National Roofing Contractors Association recommends storing your shingles in a warm place prior to installation and only bringing a few bundles out at a time. But there are also ways to avoid the issue entirely, and that comes down to what material you choose to install. Here are three options that are recommended by the experts at Beacon Roofing Supply.

1 – Slate

Slate is a great option for a wintery-reroof if your client has the available budget. It is also important to check that the home has a strong structural foundation as slate tends to be a heavier roofing material.

In general, natural slate is known to have the best performance for intense, harsh winter weather as they are extremely durable and can handle freezing temperatures and snow easily. Further, when combined with proper insulation, slate can keep a home’s interior very warm and cozy.  

2 – Metal   

If slate is not an option, whether it be budgetary or structural constraints, metal is another option for wintertime roofing. Like slate, metal can be a great insulator when working with good insulation. It is popular in the industry for its durability and long lifespan which will help it perform well in the winter.

The only thing to be aware of when working with metal is snow build up. In general, areas that get light snow should have few issues as it will easily allow snow to melt and slide off the roof. If you are working in areas with more snow accumulation, you should consider installing snow guards and/or heating cables to prevent ice dams and snow avalanches.  

3 – Concrete  

Last but not least, concrete tiles offer another option for cold-weather roofing. Again, like slate, these are a heavier material so you must ensure that the home’s foundation and structure are strong enough to support them. They carry many benefits of slate, including aesthetics, at a lower price for your homeowners on a budget. But contractors need to be careful to only work with concrete roofing materials that are rated to handle-freeze thaw cycles.

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