Summer is a popular time for homeowners to tackle various home improvement projects, and roofing is no exception. The warm weather and clear skies make it an ideal season to repair, replace, or maintain your roof. However, roofing projects in the summer require careful planning and consideration to ensure successful outcomes and avoid potential issues. As an exterior roofing company with years of experience, we’ve compiled a list of essential do’s and don’ts to guide you through your summer roofing project.
The Do’s Of Minnesota Roofing:
Schedule Early
Summer is a busy time for roofing contractors, so it’s crucial to schedule your project early to secure a slot with a reputable company. Delaying the booking may lead to extended wait times or rush jobs.
Inspect Your Roof
Before starting any roofing project, conduct a thorough inspection of your roof. Look for signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, leaks, or sagging areas. Identifying these issues early on will help you address them promptly – but make sure you practice all safety measures when inspecting!
Work in the Cooler Hours
The summer sun can be scorching in Minnesota, so plan to work during the cooler parts of the day. Commence work early in the morning or in the late afternoon when temperatures are more bearable for you or the roofing crew.
Stay Hydrated
Roofing work is physically demanding, especially in hot weather. Ensure that your roofing team has access to plenty of water and take regular breaks to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Use Proper Safety Equipment
Safety should be a top priority for any roofing project. Make sure your crew wears appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including helmets, gloves, and safety harnesses. You don’t want any liabilities on your hands!
Choose High-Quality Materials
Invest in high-quality roofing materials that can withstand the summer heat, UV rays, and sudden temperature changes. Inferior materials may deteriorate quickly, leading to potential leaks and costly repairs down the line, making you have to start the roofing repair process all over again, much too soon.
Provide Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial to maintain a stable temperature in your attic and prevent heat buildup, which can lead to premature shingle aging and increased cooling costs. This is also important for those winter months in Minnesota. You don’t want the snow on your roof to build up and cause damaging leaks in the winter when repairing your roof is challenging.
Clean the Gutters
Clear out debris and leaves from your gutters before starting the roofing project. Clogged gutters can impede proper water drainage and cause water to pool, leading to potential water damage.
Even if you aren’t working on a roofing project at the time, it is always important to regularly check your gutters and downspouts to ensure everything is cleared and working properly.
The Don’ts Of Roofing In Minnesota:
Don’t Neglect Weather Forecasts
While summer generally has stable weather, unexpected storms can still occur. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan accordingly. Avoid roofing during rain or extreme heat waves.
Don’t Rush the Project
Though you may want to get it done as soon as possible, roofing work requires precision and attention to detail. Avoid rushing the project to ensure the best results. Hasty work could lead to mistakes and the need for rework later.
Don’t Ignore Ventilation
Proper attic ventilation is crucial in summer to reduce heat buildup. Ignoring this aspect can lead to excessive heat in your living spaces and cause your air conditioning system to work harder – with the added bonus of your energy bill rising!
Don’t Overlook Roof Repairs
If your roof has minor issues like loose shingles or small leaks, don’t ignore them thinking they can wait until later. Addressing minor repairs promptly can prevent them from escalating into major problems.
Don’t DIY Complex Projects
Roofing is a complex and dangerous task that requires professional expertise. Avoid attempting DIY roofing projects, as they can lead to accidents, further damage, and void warranties.
Don’t Ignore Safety Precautions
Ensure that all safety protocols are followed during the project. Cutting corners on safety measures can result in accidents or injuries.
Don’t Cover Old Shingles
It may be tempting to save time and money by layering new shingles over old ones, but it’s not advisable. Removing the old shingles allows for proper inspection of the roof deck and ensures a more durable, long-lasting roof.
Need to Consult with the Experts?
Undertaking a roofing project during the summer can be a rewarding experience if done correctly. By following the do’s and don’ts outlined above, you can ensure a successful roofing project that will protect your home for years to come.
But, if you’re having any doubts or questions regarding your roofing project, reach out to All Craftsmen Exteriors. We are more than happy to give you any roofing advice while also providing a free roofing estimate on your project. We want to make sure the job gets done right the first time; contact us today!
