Different weather conditions can make for a complicated roofing application. Professional roofing contractors will want to work in the most moderate conditions because these temperatures are when injury and risk are at their lowest. If you are working to repair your roof on your own, this blog can be helpful to know when temperatures or weather conditions may make it difficult to install roofing materials.
Installing roofing material is a complex process, and part of that process is letting the roofing materials cure and set. Installing at the right temperature will ensure your roofing material will set properly and keep your home protected long after application.
In Extremely Hot or Cold Temperatures
Roof replacement and repairs are physically demanding and require long hours out in the elements. When temperatures rise above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, it creates conditions that are not ideal for roofing work. Spending time up high on a roof puts workers closer to the sun and exposes them to the dangers of UV rays, which can cause severe burns, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. These conditions can lead to hallucinations, disorientation, nausea, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness, which is especially concerning when working on a high roof.
Working in extremely high temperatures also leads to decreased productivity. Heat reduces workers’ ability to concentrate and perform tasks efficiently, and fatigue sets in quickly, increasing the risk of accidents.
Working in hot temperatures can also cause roof materials to warp or improperly adhere to the roof slates. If your roof materials are distorted, they will not effectively protect your roof, which can lead to moisture leaks, rodents invading your attic, or uncontrolled temperatures inside your home. Shingles can also become slippery in the heat, making them dangerous to walk on and potentially leading to falls and injuries.
Cold weather can also negatively affect roof materials, causing fiberglass shingles to become brittle and making it difficult for workers to lay them down on the roof without damaging them. Adhesive can also lose its stickiness in lower temperatures, resulting in an insufficient bond between the shingles and roof slates.
When It Is Snowing Or Raining
Working on your roof when it is raining or snowing can be an incredibly dangerous task. Roofing materials and the extreme slope of some roofs can become slippery when wet, making them treacherous to navigate and creating additional safety risks. Plus, water is an electrical conductor, so if there are power lines in close proximity to the roof, it creates additional electrocution risks.
Furthermore, precipitation reduces visibility, making it challenging for roofers to be aware of hazards. Poor visibility also inhibits communication between team members, leading to coordination issues.
Just like extreme heat, wet or snowy conditions can damage roofing materials, compromising the integrity of the roof. Attempting to work on a wet or snow-covered roof can worsen existing issues and lead to the need for costly repairs down the line.
To ensure everyone’s safety and create the best result, it’s best to postpone roofing work until conditions improve. If immediate roof repairs are necessary, workers should take extra precautions and use safety equipment like harnesses and non-slip footwear.
Before A Major Storm
Working on a roof before a major storm rolls in is exceptionally unsafe and can be a recipe for disaster. Storms can intensify rapidly, leading to unpredictable and hazardous conditions. In addition to creating wet, slippery surfaces, major storms bring strong winds that can make roofing work nearly impossible and increase the risk of workers being hit by flying debris or even being blown off the roof.
Lightning is another significant concern during storms. Roofers often work up high with metal tools and materials, increasing their risk of being struck.
Additionally, roofing work conducted right before a storm often results in unfinished projects, potentially causing further damage to the property and leading to increased costs and liability for the roofing company or contractor.
Fortunately, these dangers can be avoided by closely monitoring weather forecasts and rescheduling roofing work when a storm is imminent. Safety should be the top priority, and rushing to complete a job before a storm arrives is never worth the risk.
Quality Roofing Services From Kanga Roof
At Kanga Roof, we are committed to providing high-quality roofing services while ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Whatever your roof needs are, we have the expertise to make it happen. To learn more about what we can do for you, feel free to contact us today!
