Getting a new roof is a significant investment that can pay off for years to come through enhanced protection, durability, and even energy efficiency.
Weather, demand cycles, and material costs fluctuating through the year do matter when it comes to knowing the best time of year to get a new roof.
Best Time of Year to Get a New Roof
Review the prime times below based on material type and get ready to pick your perfect window:
1. January Through April
· Cost – $6,000 to $12,000 for asphalt shingles for the average home
· Leading Companies – GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed
· Materials – Asphalt shingles, metal panels
· Asphalt Shingle Weights – 220 to 350 lbs per square
· Quality Standards – Meet ASTM D3018 Type I organic shingles or ASTM D3462 mineral-surfaced standard
· Stats – 13% of annual roof replacements done in this period
· Roof Life – 17 to 22 years
The early months of the year, from January through April, bring cool, dry weather in many regions—ideal for roof installation before the heat and storms of summer arrive.
This window sees high demand, so costs run on the higher side. However, leading brands like GAF, Owens Coming, and CertainTeed offer warranties when installed by certified roofers during this period.
Focus on lighter asphalt shingles in the 220 to 350 pound per square range to allow for easy installation. The weather also suits metal panels, though increased demand can limit stock availability.
Order early!
Also Read: Best places in europe to visit for new years eve
2. May Through August
· Cost – $5,500 to $10,000+ for asphalt shingles
· Leading Companies – Same as above
· Materials – Asphalt, metal, clay tile, slate
· Asphalt Shingle Weights – 230 to 340 lbs per square
· Quality Standards – Meet ASTM standards
· Stats – 29% of annual roof replacements done in this period
· Roof Life – 16 to 20 years
The late spring and summer months of May through August make up the most popular roofing period; given the warm, dry conditions in most regions, this could be the best time of year to get a new roof.
However, costs are often inflated to meet high demand, with premium asphalt shingles running over $10,000 for many homes after labor.
Focus on mid-weight options from 230 to 340 pounds per square for durability and easier installation in heat.
The peak season also opens ample material choices like clay tiles and slate for enhanced aesthetics and longevity, though order early as stock can be limited.
Just note that extreme heat makes some materials brittle.
3. September Through December
· Cost – $4,800 to $9,000+ for asphalt shingles
· Leading Companies – Same as above
· Materials – Asphalt, metal
· Asphalt Shingle Weights – 230 to 340 lbs per square
· Quality Standards – Meet ASTM standards
· Stats – 35% of annual roof replacements done in this period
· Roof Life – 18 to 25 years
The fall and early winter months from September through December make for an ideal compromise in balancing weather, demand, and material factors when investing in a new roof.
Pricing dips after the summer rush, but established brands still warrant installations during this cooler period. Mid-weight asphalt remains the most common and cost-effective choice, while metal panels stand as an energy-efficient option before winter sets in.
Just beware of early snow or storms shortening workable hours as you move later into December.
But with over a third of all roof replacements done during the final four months, you’ll be in good company, improving protection before the serious weather arrives.
HOA Approvals
Homeowners associations and historic review boards hold approval power over aesthetic changes to home exteriors in many communities.
If you live under such oversight, check regulatory requirements around roof replacements and materials. Certain neighborhoods prohibit asphalt and require more expensive options like clay tiles or slate.
The approval process also commonly takes 4 to 6 weeks from application to permit.
File early so approvals clear in time for your contractor’s appointment calendar.
Insurance Claims
Severe storms taking a roof past its functional limits represent the most common insurance claim scenario. Review your policy exclusions and deductibles around acts of nature carefully.
Document storm damage thoroughly through photos and video upon occurrence before arranging temporary repairs. Then, contact your agent immediately to start the review and claim process rolling.
This path can ease replacement costs substantially but extends project timelines based on the adjuster and contractor availability.
While winter sees the fewest roof replacements, urgent damage should still be addressed immediately versus left exposed through months of harsh weather. Even a short window of moderate temps—say above 40°F—allows for repair by an experienced, equipped roofer.
Use caution when committing to full replacements amid ice and snow when shoveling and modifications become hazardous.
But for emergencies like wind ripping sections loose or water pouring inside from gaps, temporary fixes remain the priority to check further destruction. Then, target complete spring and summer tear-offs for fuller remediation once conditions improve.
Stay proactive year-round in maintaining your most vital shield.
Wrapping Up – Satisfaction for Your Next Roof
The ingredients you want: favorable skies, available talent, peak materials, and ideally incentives through insurance or energy upgrades.
The result, while it is impossible to fully predict the best time of year to get a new roof, may still satisfy for years when you take control up front.
