Cold weather roof installation isn’t just possible—it can be done safely and effectively with the right materials and methods. As temperatures drop, choosing the right shingles and hiring a qualified crew becomes critical. Whether you’re repairing storm damage or replacing an aging roof, understanding cold weather roof installation ensures your home stays protected all winter long.
Key Takeaways
- Cold weather roof installation is safe when using SBS-modified shingles like CertainTeed’s NorthGate and ClimateFlex, which are engineered to perform down to 20°F.
- Traditional shingles can crack or fail to seal in cold conditions, especially when temperatures fall below the standard 40°F installation minimum.
- Proper nail gun pressure is critical during winter installations to avoid overdriving nails through brittle shingles, which can compromise the roof’s integrity.
- Roofers must warm shingles and avoid bending them cold, particularly in valleys, hips, and ridges where damage is more likely if materials are stiff.
- Even with cold-rated shingles, roofs should not be installed in extreme conditions, such as temperatures below 20°F, frozen roof decks, or high winds.
- Hiring a CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator ensures proper training and material use, especially important for cold weather jobs requiring specific expertise.
- Ask roofers about their winter installation methods and materials—contractors who can’t explain their cold weather protocols may be cutting corners.
- A Fortified-certified contractor like McRoof provides added protection by following strict standards that safeguard your home against wind, hail, and future storms.
The Right Shingles for Cold Weather
Installing shingles in cold temperatures used to be a risky move. Traditional asphalt shingles become brittle in freezing weather, making them prone to cracking, poor sealing, and premature failure. Fortunately, modern technology has changed the game for winter roofing.
Why Standard Shingles Fall Short in the Cold
Standard shingles rely on heat to activate the sealant strips that bond them in place. When temperatures drop below 40°F, those adhesives struggle to activate—leaving shingles vulnerable to wind uplift and water intrusion. Additionally, cold shingles are harder to bend, making hip and ridge installation more difficult and prone to damage.
Enter Modified Asphalt Shingles
Manufacturers like CertainTeed have developed cold weather–friendly roofing materials, specifically SBS-modified asphalt shingles. These shingles are designed to stay flexible and durable in colder conditions.
Top Cold Weather Shingle Options
| Shingle Product | Type | Cold Weather Rating | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| NorthGate® | SBS-Modified Asphalt | Installs down to 20°F | Exceptional flexibility and impact resistance |
| Landmark® ClimateFlex™ | SBS-Modified Asphalt | Installs down to 20°F | Enhanced granule adhesion and cold durability |
Both shingles are engineered to be installed well below the traditional 40°F threshold, reducing risk while increasing performance.
Benefits of Using SBS-Modified Shingles
- Improved flexibility for easier handling in cold conditions
- Faster sealing once temperatures rise
- Longer life expectancy under extreme seasonal conditions
- Better impact resistance, which helps in hail-prone regions
Choosing the right product is your first line of defense when planning a cold weather roof installation. But even with premium materials, proper installation practices are essential.
Cold Weather Installation Best Practices
Roofing in winter requires more than just tough shingles—it demands experience, careful planning, and strict adherence to technical protocols.
Nail Gun Adjustments Matter
In cold conditions, compressed air behaves differently. Nail guns can overdrive nails into brittle shingles, causing holes or cracks that void warranties.
Key Nail Gun Adjustments for Cold Weather
- Lower compressor pressure to match reduced resistance
- Ensure consistent gun use—when fewer guns are in use, pressure can spike
- Monitor depth settings for every technician
Overdriven nails are one of the top causes of failure in cold weather installs—especially with architectural shingles not rated for sub-freezing work.
Shingle Handling and Bending
Valleys, hips, and ridges are weak points in any roofing system. In cold weather, shingles become stiff and resist bending, making them susceptible to breakage.
Best Practices:
- Store shingles in a heated space before installation
- Use heat guns or hand-warming techniques as needed
- Avoid aggressive bending of cold shingles—opt for SBS products when possible
Don’t Push the Temperature Limits
While some products allow installation at 20°F, weather isn’t just about temperature. Wind chill, humidity, and sun exposure also impact how materials behave.
When to Delay Installation:
| Condition | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Below 20°F | Even SBS shingles may fail to seal properly |
| High winds | Makes placement and nail accuracy harder |
| Frozen roof decks | Ice underlayments won’t adhere correctly |
Professional roofers understand that quality must come before speed. If your contractor is rushing a job in extreme cold without taking these precautions, it’s time to look elsewhere.
How to Choose a Contractor for Cold Weather Jobs
Not every roofer is equipped—or even willing—to install a roof in the winter. Cold weather roof installation demands specialized knowledge, flexible materials, and a commitment to quality over speed. Choosing the wrong contractor can result in poor workmanship, denied insurance claims, or even a roof that fails before spring.
What to Look for in a Cold Weather Roofing Contractor
Hiring a contractor who understands the science and strategy behind cold weather roofing is essential. Here’s what sets a professional apart:
Qualifications That Matter
| Certification or Credential | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator | Demonstrates product-specific training and certified best practices |
| Fortified Roof Installer | Ensures roofs meet the highest standards for weather resilience |
| Insurance Claim Expertise | Streamlines your process if repairs are tied to storm or wind damage |
| Local Experience | Shows familiarity with regional weather, code, and roofing challenges |
McRoof, for example, is a CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator and certified Fortified roof provider with deep experience in Oklahoma’s extreme weather cycles.
Questions to Ask Before You Hire
- Do you use SBS-modified shingles for winter installations?
If not, they may be cutting corners. - How do you adjust nail gun pressure for cold weather?
The right answer shows they care about installation quality. - What steps do you take to prevent shingle breakage?
Listen for answers about warm storage, careful handling, and proper scheduling. - Will this installation still qualify for full warranty coverage?
If they can’t guarantee that, walk away.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Vague answers about temperature thresholds
- Lack of certifications or insurance support experience
- Pressuring you to install immediately, even in extreme cold
- No mention of climate-rated products
A good contractor doesn’t just install a roof—they protect your investment. In winter, that means being honest about conditions and doing it right the first time.
When it comes to cold weather roof installation, cutting corners can cost you more than just shingles—it can lead to leaks, warranty issues, and early failure. Fortunately, today’s roofing materials and expert techniques make winter installations safer and more reliable than ever before.
If you’re facing roof repairs or planning a replacement this season, trust the experts who understand the challenges of cold climate roofing. McRoof specializes in FORTIFIED roofing, storm damage restoration, and insurance-backed solutions, using industry-leading products like CertainTeed’s NorthGate and ClimateFlex.
Protect your home before the next freeze. Visit https://mcroof.us/ to learn more about your roofing options or contact McRoof directly for a free cold-weather roof assessment.