🎧 Prefer to listen? You can now listen to this article:
Living in Los Angeles means we don’t have to worry about blizzards or ice dams like homeowners in the Midwest. However, that doesn’t mean you can schedule a roof replacement whenever you feel like it.
While our weather is mild, we still deal with extreme heat in the San Fernando Valley, the infamous “June Gloom” along the coast, and the unpredictable Santa Ana winds.
Choosing the right month for your project can save you money and ensure your new roof seals properly.
Here is the insider advice we give to the contractors and homeowners who visit our supply yard every day.
The “Sweet Spot” Seasons: Spring and Fall
If you want the perfect balance of temperature and availability, aim for late spring or early fall.
Why Spring (May & June) Works Best: This is often considered the ideal window. The rainy season has passed, but the blistering summer heat hasn’t fully set in yet. For coastal areas like Santa Monica or the South Bay, the “June Gloom” is actually a huge benefit. The overcast mornings keep the roof deck cool, allowing crews to work longer hours without the risk of heat exhaustion or material damage.
Why Fall (September & October) is a Close Second: As temperatures drop, the working conditions become ideal again. The thermal sealing strips on popular roofing materials like asphalt shingles need some warmth to activate and bond properly, and the mild fall sun provides just enough heat to seal your roof before the winter rains arrive.
The Summer Myth: Is Hotter Better?
Many homeowners assume summer is the best time for roofing because it is dry. While it is certainly the busiest season for contractors, the intense LA heat presents challenges.
In areas like Woodland Hills or Canoga Park, roof surface temperatures can easily exceed 150°F. At these temperatures, asphalt shingles become incredibly soft. If a crew walks on them carelessly, the protective granules can scuff off, potentially shortening the life of your brand new roof.
Pro Tip: If you must replace your roof in July or August, expect the crew to start very early (often at 6:00 AM) to finish the heavy work before noon. This isn’t just for their safety; it protects your materials.
Winter Realities: It’s All About the Rain
Unlike the rest of the country, roofing work continues year-round in Southern California. We don’t have snow days. However, we do have rain delays.
If you schedule a tear-off in January or February, you are at the mercy of the forecast. A reliable roofing contractor will never tear off your old roof if there is a chance of rain, as a sudden storm could flood your living room. This means a 3-day job could turn into a 2-week ordeal if a storm system rolls through.
Watch Out for the Santa Ana Winds
One local factor that national guides ignore is the Santa Ana winds. These typically kick up in the fall (October to December).
We strongly advise against scheduling a tear-off during a Red Flag Warning. High winds can rip the roofing underlayment right off the deck before the shingles are nailed down. Furthermore, the dry air and high wind speeds create dangerous fire conditions. It is safer to wait until the winds die down to ensure your materials stay on the roof where they belong.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait for the First Leak
The worst time to replace a roof is when you have to.
Every year, our phones at L.A. Roofing Materials light up the morning after the first heavy rain of the season. When this happens, local contractors get booked out for weeks instantly. Supply chains get stressed, and you might find yourself paying a premium for emergency roof repairs just to keep water out of your house.
If your roof is over 20 years old, the best strategy is to schedule your inspection during the calm, dry months of spring. You will likely get a better price and your pick of the best contractors.
Ready to start your roofing project? Don’t navigate the roofing process alone. Visit L.A. Roofing Materials today to see the materials in person and get honest advice from our family-owned team. We can help you select the perfect product for your home and even connect you with trusted local contractors.
FAQs
Is it cheaper to replace a roof in the winter?
Sometimes. Winter is generally the “slow season” for contractors since fewer people think about home improvement during the holidays. You might be able to negotiate a better labor rate, but you accept the risk of rain delays.
Can you install a roof in the rain?
No. You should never install roofing materials on a wet deck. Trapping moisture underneath the underlayment can lead to mold, rot, and buckling wood later on.
Does the temperature affect my warranty?
It can. Most manufacturers have specific installation guidelines regarding temperature. If shingles are installed in freezing weather (rare in LA) or extreme heat without proper care, it could affect the material’s performance. Always hire a certified contractor who follows manufacturer specs.
How long does a roof replacement take?
For an average-sized home in Los Angeles (approx. 2,000 sq. ft.), a full tear-off and replacement typically takes 3 to 5 days, assuming no major structural damage is found.
Should I replace my roof before installing solar panels?
Yes. If your roof is more than 10-15 years old, we highly recommend replacing it before adding solar. If your roof fails after the panels are installed, you will have to pay thousands of dollars extra to have the solar system removed and re-installed just to fix the roof underneath.