Replacing your roof is a major investment, and choosing the right time of year can make a big difference in how long your roof lasts — especially in Illinois, where temperatures swing from freezing winters to humid summers.

If you're wondering “When is the best time to install shingles?” the answer comes down to the two biggest factors:

✅ Outside temperature

✅ Seasonal weather conditions

Below is the homeowner-friendly guide that explains why timing matters, what can go wrong in cold weather, and how to protect your roof and warranty.

Winter temperatures in Illinois can prevent shingles from sealing properly — making timing and installation technique critical.

🌞 The Best Seasons for Shingle Installation in Illinois

✅ Late Spring (May–June)

This is often the ideal time to install shingles.

• Consistent temperatures

• Low humidity

• Less risk of extreme heat

• Perfect environment for sealing/adhesion

✅ Early Fall (September–October)

The second-best window — and often the most popular for homeowners.

• Moderate temperatures

• Stable weather

• Shingles lay flat quickly

• Sealing strips activate properly

🌡️ Recommended Temperature Range for Shingle Installation

Most manufacturers — including GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed — recommend:

✔️ Install shingles when temperatures are 40°F–85°F (5°C–29°C)

Why? Because the asphalt seal strips need warmth to activate and bond the shingles together.

Below 40°F, the sealing process slows significantly and may never fully bond until warmer days return.

❄️ What Happens If You Install Shingles in the Cold?

Installing shingles during winter in Illinois is possible… but risky if not handled properly.

Here’s what can go wrong:

🚫 Brittle, Cracking Shingles

In cold temperatures, shingles become stiff and more prone to cracking during installation.

🚫 Nail Blow-Through

Shingles that stiffen in the cold can crack when a nail is driven through them — especially with pneumatic nailers.

🚫 Improper Sealing

Seal strips require heat to bond. Without proper adhesion, shingles can lift, flap, or blow off during windy days.

🚫 Higher Leak Risk

Raised shingles, unbonded tabs, and cracked materials all allow water to penetrate more easily.

🚫 Shortened Lifespan

A poor cold-weather install can reduce a roof’s life by 5–10 years.

🚫 Delayed Activation

If the temperature never rises above sealing range for weeks, the roof remains vulnerable until spring.

📝 Does Installing Shingles in Cold Weather Void the Warranty?

Not automatically — but it CAN if done incorrectly.

Manufacturers typically require:

• Proper shingle adhesion

• Correct nail placement

• Approved cold-weather handling procedures

• Warming of shingles before installation

• Hand-sealing when needed

If a contractor installs shingles below recommended temps without following proper procedures, a manufacturer can deny claims related to:

• Wind damage

• Lifted shingles

• Seal failure

• Premature aging

This is why choosing a certified installer — like Cornerstone Restoration — is critical. We follow GAF’s winter installation guidelines (including hand-sealing when required).

🧊 Can Asphalt Shingles Be Installed in Winter in Illinois?

Yes, they can, but only with strict precautions:

✅ Store shingles in a heated environment before installation

✅ Hand-seal shingles in required areas

✅ Avoid bending or manipulating cold shingles

✅ Use temperature-appropriate ventilation and adhesives

✅ Schedule installation during the warmest part of the day

At Cornerstone, we only install in winter when conditions allow for proper sealing, safety, and warranty compliance.

🌦️ What About Installing Premium Materials Like DaVinci or Cedar Shake?

Some roofing materials are less impacted by cold weather than asphalt.

🟫 DaVinci Composite Shake & Slate Roofing

DaVinci’s polymer tiles handle extreme cold exceptionally well and can be installed in a wider temperature range.

Learn more:👉 https://www.restorewithcornerstone.com/davinci-roofscapes-roofing

🌲 Cedar Shake Roofing

Cedar is more flexible and resilient in lower temps, but ice, snow, and moisture exposure still slow production and can impact installation quality.

Learn more:👉 https://www.restorewithcornerstone.com/cedar-shake-roofing

🏚️ Asphalt Shingle Roofing

Most sensitive to cold temperatures. Requires adherence to strict winter protocols to maintain warranty and long-term performance.

Learn more:👉 https://www.restorewithcornerstone.com/asphalt-roofing

✅ So, When Should You Replace Your Roof?

Here’s the simple breakdown for Illinois homeowners:

Best Months (Ideal Conditions):

✅ May✅ June✅ September✅ October

Good Months (Weather Cooperating):

✅ April✅ July✅ August

Possible but Risky Months:

⚠️ November⚠️ March

Least Recommended:

❌ December❌ January❌ February

We still replace roofs in winter, but only when conditions allow us to protect your home and maintain full warranty coverage.

📞 Want to Know If Now Is the Right Time to Replace Your Roof?

Every home and every season is a little different .If you’re wondering whether conditions are right today — we’ll tell you honestly.

✅ Free inspections✅ Free estimates✅ Honest guidance based on weather, warranty, and condition✅ No pressure

Cornerstone Restoration — Your Trusted Roofing Experts in Schaumburg, IL