Can You Replace a Roof in Winter?

Can you replace a roof in winter? Yes — it is possible in Wisconsin and northern Illinois, but winter roof replacement comes with unique challenges. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, and unpredictable Midwest weather mean the job must be done using the right materials and cold-weather installation techniques by an experienced local roofing contractor.

What Homeowners Should Know About Replacing a Roof In Winter

Ideally, roof replacements are performed when temperatures are 40°F or warmer. When temperatures drop below that threshold, several issues can arise.

1. Shingle Brittleness

Cold temperatures cause asphalt shingles to stiffen, which makes them brittle and more likely to crack or break during installation. Brittle shingles are harder to bend, cut, and nail properly, which can compromise their overall integrity and long-term performance.

2. Adhesive Struggles

Asphalt shingles need warmth to activate the self-sealing adhesive. In cold weather, this adhesive may not bond correctly, which makes shingles more vulnerable to wind uplift until warmer temperatures return.

3. Potential Warranty Issues

Installing shingles below the manufacturer’s recommended temperature range can void the manufacturer’s warranty.  During a warranty claim, the shingle manufacturer will review the NOAA historical data to see what the weather was during the roof install or roof replacement. If shingles were installed below approved temperatures, warranty coverage — particularly for wind damage — may be denied.

4. Weather-Related Delays

Winter weather in Wisconsin and Illinois is unpredictable. One day may reach 45°F, while the next drops to 15°F. Snow, ice, wind, and rapid temperature changes can delay projects and extend timelines.

Winter Roofing in Wisconsin & Northern Illinois

Homeowners in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois face unique winter conditions that can impact roofing projects. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, ice dams, and strong winter winds all place added stress on roofing systems.

Because of these regional challenges, winter roof replacement in Wisconsin and Illinois should only be handled by a contractor who understands:

• Local building codes and inspection requirements

• Ice dam prevention and ventilation strategies

• Manufacturer temperature guidelines for Midwest climates

• Safe installation practices in winter

Working with a local roofing contractor ensures your roof is installed correctly and built to perform in Midwest winters.

CertainTeed Options for Winter Replacement

If replacing a roof in winter is absolutely necessary, it must be done properly. Snow and high winds should still be avoided, but CertainTeed offers products and systems that make winter roof replacement possible when handled by an experienced contractor. PK Contractors’ preferred roofing manufacturer is CertainTeed, a leader in cold-weather roofing solutions.

1. Install the CertainTeed Integrity Roof System®

The CertainTeed Integrity Roof System® is designed so all components work together to protect your roof — even in challenging conditions.

Key components include:

• Waterproofing underlayment installed in vulnerable areas to prevent leaks

• Water-resistant underlayment that protects the roof deck and provides a secondary moisture barrier

• Starter shingles that improve sealing and performance

• Shingles in a variety of styles.

• Ventilation components such as ridge and intake vents that allow the roof to breathe

• Hip and ridge caps that provide durability and a finished appearance

• 
  

2. Choose the Right Shingle

Cold-weather-rated shingles are essential for winter installations. CertainTeed’s NorthGate® and ClimateFlex® shingles remain flexible in colder temperatures, allowing proper bending, cutting, and nailing without cracking.

3. Use WinterGuard® Underlayment

CertainTeed WinterGuard® is a waterproofing underlayment typically installed at eaves, valleys, rakes, and other vulnerable areas. It is elastic, durable, and able to withstand foot traffic, making it ideal for sealing against ice and winter moisture.

4. Follow Proper Cold-Weather Installation Techniques

Every manufacturer has approved installation requirements that must be followed to maintain warranty coverage. Proper winter installation techniques may include:

• Keeping materials warm before installation

• Hand-sealing shingles when necessary

• Strictly following manufacturer temperature guidelines

5. Keep the Work Area Safe

Homeowners can help prepare for winter roofing projects by:

• Clearing items away from the home

• Keeping driveways and walkways free of snow and ice

• Applying salt or sand to reduce slip hazards

Safety is critical for both homeowners and crews during winter projects.

PK Contractors Approach to Winter Roofing in Wisconsin & Illinois

As a locally owned roofing contractor serving southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, PK Contractors understands the challenges winter weather presents to homeowners in this region. We typically schedule roof installations and replacements in late spring, summer, and early fall, when conditions are ideal. During winter months, we primarily focus on door and window replacements.

We usually recommend winter roof replacement only when it is absolutely necessary — such as in cases of:

• Storm damage

• Active roof leaks

• Chronic ice dams

• Other issues where waiting could cause additional damage

If delaying a roof replacement would result in further harm to your home, a winter roof replacement may be the right solution when done properly by an experienced contractor using the correct materials.

Thinking About a Winter Roof Replacement?

If you need a roof inspection, repair, or replacement during winter, PK Contractors is here to help. We proudly serve homeowners throughout southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, including Fort Atkinson, Beloit, and surrounding communities.

Contact