Are Roof Repairs in Calgary and Edmonton Possible During the Winter?

Winter in Alberta is no joke. Calgary and Edmonton homeowners know that the snow comes early and stays late, and those temperatures can really plummet. While you’re busy with holiday preparations and staying warm, it’s important to make sure your home is ready to withstand the elements, especially your roof. At A. Clark Roofing & Siding, we often get asked if roof repairs can be done in the winter. The answer is yes! However, there are a few things to consider before scheduling your roof repair in Calgary or Edmonton this winter.

How Winter Weather Affects Roof Repair

Temperature

The ideal temperature for roof repair is above 4°C. Shingles become brittle in cold weather and are more prone to cracking or breaking during installation. If the temperature dips below freezing, special care is required and the type of work we can do becomes more limited.

Snow and Ice

Snow and ice buildup on your roof can create hazardous working conditions. We may need to clear your roof before starting any repairs, which could add to the project’s time and cost.

Wind Chill

Let’s face it, the wind chill in Calgary and Edmonton can be brutal. This can make it challenging for our roofers to work for extended periods, potentially leading to more breaks and a longer project timeline.

What to Expect During Winter Roof Repair in Edmonton and Calgary

If you need a roof repair this winter, here’s what you can expect: 

• Higher Costs: Winter roof repairs might be more expensive due to increased labour and specialized equipment required for cold weather conditions.
• Longer Timeline: Expect your roof repair in Calgary or Edmonton to potentially take longer in the winter. Unpredictable weather and shorter daylight hours can cause delays.
• Limited Availability: Our roofing crews may have limited availability due to existing projects and weather constraints.

Common Winter Roofing Services

If you’re experiencing a harsh winter or your house needs a tune-up, chances are you may experience one of the following common issues during Edmonton and Calgary’s harsh winters.

1. Condensation: Plummeting temperatures and big temperature swings may lead to frost in the attic. Condensation is often more severe in homes with an imbalance with their roofing system or attic space that traps moisture, which may freeze and accumulate in the winter, only to suddenly leak into your home when it warms up. 
2. Ice Damming: If there’s an imbalance in your roofing system as described above, there may also be a temperature imbalance where warmer air gets trapped in your attic system. This can cause the snow on your roof to melt, freeze and accumulate near cold spots like the eaves. Ice can also form where hot air escapes certain vents like bath fans, which may lead to accumulating ice formed from the warm, humid air once it reaches the outside. Ice build-up can then lead to leaks as the ice dams the water, holds it in a growing pool and allows it to penetrate the roof. Alternatively, the build-up can divert the water into places it would normally be unable to reach.
3. Heavy snow accumulation: Lots of snow on your roof can present its own issues. If our Edmonton and Calgary winters are especially full of snow, snow may accumulate to cover roof vents and prevent them from working correctly. This can lead to condensation and ice damming as the air gets trapped and doesn’t vent properly. Other issues that arise with heavy snow accumulation are unsafe weight loads on your roof, falling snow, and ice.

Ensure you contact a professional roofer to address any of the issues above and maintain and service your roof, keeping it healthy throughout the harsh Alberta winters. At A. Clark Roofing & Siding, we have roofing professionals who are trained and ready to work safely in our harsh climate to address your winter roofing needs.

Prepare Your Property for Winter Roof Repairs

Before our crews come to your home to provide winter roof repairs in Edmonton or Calgary, you can ensure the project is completed according to schedule by taking time to clear the area around your home of any obstacles like patio furniture, holiday decorations, or snow piles. This allows our team easy access to your roof. Keep in mind that roofing work can be noisy. If you have young children or pets, consider making arrangements for them to be comfortable elsewhere during the repair. And lastly, remember that winter weather in Alberta can be unpredictable. Be prepared for potential delays, and try to be patient if the project takes a bit longer than expected. We’ll always do our best to complete your repairs on time, but the safety of our crew and the quality of our work are just as important. 

Need a Roof Repair in Calgary or Edmonton This Winter?  

Don’t wait until spring to address your roof repair needs. Contact A. Clark Roofing & Siding today for a free estimate. We’ll assess your roof and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s in Calgary or Edmonton. We’ll work around your schedule and do our best to minimize disruptions.

Contact us today for a free estimate.