The Pros and Cons of Roofing in Cold Weather
While roofers tend to think of winter as the off-season for all projects, cold weather presents several revenue-generating opportunities. Cold weather roofing services run the gamut from installing holiday decor to inspecting roofs for hail damage. (See all your winter working options in this guide, The Top-5 Ways to Prepare for Roofing Season.)
Of course, there are plenty of downsides to working in winter. Weather-related challenges and safety risks are high up on that list. In this blog, we’ll explore all the reasons for and against roofing in cold weather, and we’ll share tips and technologies that support your efforts to keep your income flowing in the off-season.
Why Take Roofing Jobs in the Winter?
- Reduced competition: In cold seasons, most roofing contractors limit their operations or put them on hold entirely. You’ll find a natural opening for cold weather roofing services simply because there are fewer roofers out there working during the off-season.
- Faster permit approvals: Fewer projects mean building departments are likely to have more time on their hands as far as permit processing goes. With a more streamlined approval process, you can look forward to speedier jobs.
- Minimized disruption for homeowners: The type of projects roofers take on during the winter months (such as Christmas light installations) tend to require less of homeowners since the bigger, more disruptive projects like roof replacements happen in the spring and summer. You can form positive relationships with homeowners during this time, so they know they can call you when they need a bigger warm-weather project.
- A continued revenue stream: Cold weather roofing services add to your bottom line — allowing you to plan for steadier income all year long. Plus, there are technology solutions that can help you continue to bid for jobs, without having to set foot of site.
The Cons of Winter Roofing Jobs
- Weather challenges: Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures inevitably make winter jobs more dangerous and difficult. They can also impact your work quality as colder temperatures may compromise the performance of certain materials like asphalt shingles.
- Shorter daylight hours: You have limited windows of time to work in the winter, potentially delaying project completion.
Tips and Technologies for Overcoming Safety Concerns in Winter
If your business offers cold weather roofing services, your biggest concern is safety. The risk of slips and falls automatically increases if you’re going up on a roof in winter, and limited daylight or poor weather can inhibit your ability to accurately inspect roofs for damage. You also may experience less dexterity for handling tools if your hands and feet are cold.
Drones and advanced software have emerged to assist roofers in their winter jobs. If you choose a drone solution like EagleView AssessTM, you’ll access cameras that capture high-resolution imagery of roofs as well as details from side-angled views so you can identify damage without having to climb a ladder or navigate a slippery roof. Drones are essential for gathering roof data in conditions that would compromise safety.
Tools like EagleView’s property measurement reports provide detailed roof dimensions and slope data so roofers don’t have to physically inspect a roof to obtain this information. You can get all the measurements you need without setting foot on the roof. Such reports also help roofers create accurate material estimates and job quotes without having to perform on-site inspections. You can stay out of the dangerous conditions while precisely planning projects and streamlining your bidding process.
After you’ve collected your measurements, created your proposal, and won the job, you’ll want to consider a few other tips for cold weather roof work:
- Invest in cold-weather gear such as boots with slip-resistant soles and insulated gloves.
- Research different equipment you might need to more effectively perform your services in winter.
- Plan for shorter workdays and develop project timelines accordingly.
Maximize Your Off-Season with EagleView
Winter doesn’t have to shut the door on revenue for the year. In fact, it’s the perfect time to develop upselling techniques, get jobs in line for spring, renew certifications, and more. Download our guide The Top-5 Ways to Prepare for Roofing Season to get the full scoop on how to leverage the colder months to generate income, prepare for warmer weather, and keep business momentum going.
