Cold weather in the winter can severely hamper fibreglass roof installation. But though it may be more technically challenging to apply this roof coating in the winter, it is still possible, so long as you have the right know-how.
So what precautions do you need to take, and is there anything that you must not do?
Ensure The Substrate Is Dry
The winter months can be wet. What’s more, the damp and windy weather can blow fallen leaves onto roofs, hampering the application of the resin. When applying a fibreglass resin to a roof, make sure that the substrate – whether board or something else – is completely dry.
If the roof isn’t dry, clean it thoroughly with a mop and dry towels and then let any excess moisture dry naturally. During the winter months, this can take some time, and you may have to wait for a rare, sunny day, before being able to apply the resin.
Check The Temperature Of Boards, Resin And Top Coats
You should not apply fibreglass to a roof if the air temperature is below 5 degrees Celsius. When temperatures are this low, the resin cannot cure. Ideally, the resin should be kept indoors and kept warm before applying it to the roof. You also need to check the other elements of the roofing system, such as the boards and top coats, to make sure that they don’t bring the temperature of the resin down too far. Use a temperature sensor if required.
Don’t Fibreglass A Roof After 2 PM
Winter temperatures can fall precipitously, especially at night. And with daylight coming to an end in temperate regions by 4 PM, you need to provide fibreglass resin with enough time to cure before night falls. Sunlight assists the curing process, so ensure that curing takes place in daylight hours.
Stop Work If It Starts Raining
Rain interferes with the fibreglass resin and can alter its properties. If it starts to rain, don’t continue working. Instead, stop what you’re doing and cover any resin that you’ve applied with a waterproof sheet.
Check Local Weather
During the winter, local weather conditions can change quickly. Before you start working, check the weather to make sure that neither rain nor plunging temperatures are forecast. If working with others, ensure that they receive alerts to their phones so that they can be prepared to work on other jobs.
Cover Exposed Edges Of The Roof
If you cannot immediately apply resin to a roof, then there is a risk, especially in winter, that water will penetrate the substrate, leading to damp and damage to the underlying materials. It’s a good idea, therefore, to cover up any exposed corners of the roof with a plastic sheet, especially if you need to wait before applying the resin.
Mix Smaller Batches Of Resin
During winter, mix smaller batches of resin to make sure that you have enough time to apply it to your roof before it starts to catalyse.
Finally, ensure that you work safely and that anybody who works with you is protected from the harsh winter elements.
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