Your home is probably your greatest asset, and you want to make sure that it’s well maintained. Whether you have homeowner’s insurance or rental insurance, the roof on your property is going to affect your insurance policy if it’s faulty. Replacing a leaky roof or inefficient doors and windows can end up saving you money in the long-term, particularly with your hydro and insurance companies.
Winters in Canada are long and harsh (not that we need to tell you!), so they’re not a practical time to start major work on the outside of your house such as replacing a roof.
Summer
Unless you live in a thatched roof cottage, your roof is likely composed of asphalt shingles. Early in the summer is the most popular time for those to be installed. The weather generally cooperates, and it’s not too hot for the human labour and materials except on the most extreme days.
Asphalt shingles can change texture during the height of summer and become difficult to work with, though, so your contractor might need to play with the schedule a bit to avoid those ultra-hot days.
Spring
With summer being the most popular season for re-roofing, you may be in luck if you choose to replace your roof in the spring. Chances are good that roofing companies have increased availability, and you may find that the cost of materials could be slightly lower in spring months. The roofing team will thank you for the cooler temperatures, and you won’t have to worry about melting asphalt that’s difficult to work with.
Just watch out for periodic rain. You really don’t want to get caught in a storm with a half-finished roof! Spring is typically considered the ideal time to replace windows and doors because it’s warm… but not too warm.
The moderate, dry weather is good for two reasons:
- You don’t need to worry about hot or cool air escaping.
- The caulking needed to seal everything adheres best in moderately warm temperatures.
Fall
If you’ve had any problems with your roof over the winter, you’re likely going to want to get it repaired as soon as you possibly can. Your insurance company agrees.
Fall is a popular time for re-roofing for many reasons:
- Temperatures are reasonable
- Asphalt seals effectively
- Roofing crew can work efficiently
Be aware that you may end up paying the premium going rate for this season as a result. Just make sure to have your roof installed before temperatures become so frigid that you’ll be losing money from all the heat that’s escaping your house.
Cold temperatures aren’t ideal for installing a new roof or set of windows, either. The installation of windows and doors with vinyl or aluminum features isn’t ideal, because these materials will contract, thus creating a poor seal. The same is true for caulking, which can crack in the winter.
Planning ahead
Planning is always a good strategy. You shouldn’t wait for an emergency to begin thinking about your roof. Most roofs have a lifespan of fewer than 20 years, so if you are a homeowner, it’s something you’re going to have to invest in over the course of your home’s lifespan.
Get ahead of the elements (and your insurance premiums) by making sure you are financially prepared. Contact your insurance company to discuss these renovations to keep everything covered, too.
aha insurance can offer a builder’s risk endorsement which can be added to your policy. Protect yourself and your home with a 3-minute quote!
