
Many homeowners don't know that the quality of their asphalt shingles can mean the difference between security all winter long and constant damage. While asphalt shingles don't like to be manipulated in cold temperatures, they still provide great insulation value and weather protection when installed properly. Let's go over some of the ways in which cold weather affects asphalt shingles in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
Asphalt Becomes More Rigid in Cold Weather
Asphalt shingles are ideally manipulated in temperatures ranging from 40 to 85 degrees. Below this range, shingles can easily become brittle and break during windstorms, snowstorms, or from animals. Cold weather can halt the installation of a roof immediately because sealants and adhesives won't work in cold temperatures.
Roof Repairs Become Risky in Winter
Asphalt shingles can easily break if walked on or manipulated in cold weather. For this reason, many roofing companies try to avoid scheduling roof repairs while temperatures are below freezing. Unlike other roofing materials, such as metal, asphalt shingles must be repaired or replaced within a comfortable temperature range for the most effective results possible.
Formation of Harmful Ice Dams
An ice dam forms when snow melts from a warm spot on the roof and refreezes on the roof eaves. When ice dams start to grow, they can creep under shingles and get between the seams. They're also a concern when they grow large enough to fall and break off parts of your shingles or gutter system.
Moisture-Related Rot or Mold Growth
Without proper insulation and ventilation in your attic, cold temperatures outside can meet with warm air inside to form condensation in the attic. This can be a larger threat when homes have economy-grade asphalt roofing shingles installed incorrectly on the roof decking.
Achieve Weather-Resistant Asphalt Roofing in Connecticut and Massachusetts
While asphalt shingles have some drawbacks when it comes to their performance in extreme cold, they're still one of the most effective roofing products on the market. At Millstream Construction, we provide Connecticut and Massachusetts property owners with beautiful, durable, and resilient asphalt roof installations. We can upgrade your asphalt roof with the following features for enhanced performance year-round:
- Roof Ventilation: One of the best ways to protect your asphalt shingles is with proper attic and roof ventilation. Attic ventilation can extend the lifespan of your roofing system, prevent mold growth, and reduce the chance of ice dams.
- Attic Insulation: Attic insulation can help prevent the formation of ice dams significantly. As one of the biggest threats to asphalt roofs, it's important to prioritize attic insulation. Enjoy the added benefit of enhanced home energy efficiency.
- Premium Materials: Our roofing contractors use the highest quality materials, specially designed for performance and longevity in cold-weather climates. When you hire our experts for an asphalt roof, we'll provide recommendations for top products.
Our Connecticut and Massachusetts roofers have over 50 years of experience providing weather-resistant roofing solutions. We can improve the performance of your asphalt roof for energy efficiency, weather resistance, and damage prevention over the years. Contact us today for a free quote!
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