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Are you facing roof leaks or other issues and need quick assistance in rainy weather? Many roofing problems can surface when it rains. Let’s find out if a reliable contractor can send their team to your home during harsh weather.
At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we’re here to provide you with an honest answer. In this blog post, we’ll explain everything about roofing in wet conditions to help you understand if it’s feasible for roofers to work in the rain on your specific project.
Why Roofers Avoid Working In The Rain ⛈️ 🛠️
Roofing professionals may perform specific tasks in light rain but generally avoid working during heavy rain or stormy conditions. Both safety and quality concerns play a crucial role in determining whether roofers will proceed with their work under rainy conditions.
Here are some major reasons why most licensed and experienced roofers avoid working in wet conditions:
#1 Safety Concerns
One major issue is the slippery conditions that rain brings to the table. With surfaces becoming slick, the risk of accidents for roofing professionals significantly rises. Walking on a wet roof isn’t just challenging, it can also be downright perilous.
#2 Compromised Quality of Work
Consider major tasks like tearing off an old roof or working on a flat roof. Rain can disrupt these jobs, making them more challenging and affecting the precision required for a job well done. It’s not just a matter of inconvenience, it’s about ensuring that the craftsmanship and attention to detail aren’t compromised due to the unpredictable nature of the weather. Prioritizing quality remains key, even if it means postponing some tasks for clearer skies.
#3 Damage To Roof Structure
When water infiltrates a roofing system, it doesn’t always find a swift exit. Instead, it can linger, creating a potential breeding ground for long-term issues, including rotting of materials, mold growth, and structural damage. This gradual wear and tear happens when roofing materials stay damp for too long.
However, not all situations are like this. Understanding the truth about working on roofs during rain is crucial for homeowners and industry professionals alike.
Misconceptions About Roofing In Rainy Weather
There are a lot of misconceptions on this topic, and we’re here to clarify some of the most common myths. Let’s separate facts from fiction!
❌ Roofing Can’t Be Done At All In The Rain
Clarification: While major tasks may need to be postponed, some roofing activities, like installing shingles, can be carried out in light rain with proper precautions.
❌ Roofing Quality Is Always Compromised In Rainy Conditions
Clarification: While rain poses challenges, roofing contractors take measures to ensure the quality of their work, and not all tasks are equally affected by wet weather.
❌ Rain Won’t Affect Certain Roofing Materials During Installation
Clarification: Rain may not directly affect slate or metal, but water can slip behind the roofing material, causing issues in the long run. It’s crucial to monitor and mitigate such risks during installation.
❌ Roofing Contractors Work In The Rain Without Considering Safety
Clarification: Safety remains a top priority, and contractors often closely monitor weather conditions. Major tasks prone to accidents are typically avoided during rainy weather to prioritize worker well-being.
It’s important to recognize that not all rainy conditions are a red light for roofers. There are situations where work can still proceed, even with a gentle drizzle.
Roofing Tasks That Can Be Performed During Light Rain
Roofing tasks that can be performed in light rain are done carefully to balance work progress with the unpredictability of weather conditions. Here are some scenarios where roofers might navigate through a light sprinkle:
#1 Repairing or Installing Shingles
Shingle repairs and installation can be done in light rain as the underlayment provides protection from water infiltration. Moreover, the nature of shingles allows water to evaporate naturally without compromising its effectiveness.
#2 Roof Tarping
When faced with a passing light rain, roofers may opt to cover the yet to be completed sections of the roof using a heavy-duty tarp. This strategic move shields the exposed areas from the rain, allowing the team to wait it out until the weather clears.
#3 Emergency Roof Repair
In situations demanding immediate attention, such as emergency roof repairs or when the project is just a few shingles away from completion, roofers might decide to press on.
The urgency and proximity to completion might outweigh the potential risk of light rain.
#4 Inspecting and Assessing Damage
Roofers may take advantage of light rain to conduct inspections and assess any existing damage. The rain can reveal potential leaks or vulnerabilities that might not be as evident in dry conditions.
#5 Flashing Repair and Installation
Roofers can install or repair flashing in light rain, as the material is essential for preventing water penetration at joints and seams. Customized flashing preparation and material sealing are crucial in these tasks.
#6 Gutter Cleaning
Downpours can help you identify leaky and clogged gutters. When it’s drizzling, roofing professionals can inspect and clean the gutters to prevent water damage to your home’s foundation, siding, and other construction elements.
Similarly, if there are tasks that need to be done urgently or require less labor, these can be performed during light rain. If you need safe and quick emergency roofing services in Pittsburgh, PA, we’re here to help you out.
Call Your Reliable Local Experts For Emergency Roofing In Pittsburgh!
At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we’re here to protect your beloved home with our expert residential roofing services in Pittsburgh. If it’s raining outside and you sense some roofing trouble, we’re just a call away. We’re the local GAF Master Elite® contractor that homeowners can trust. Our highly skilled and experienced team is known for providing safe, efficient, and durable roofing services in the neighborhood. Call us at (412) 353-5660 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your roofing needs with our experts.
