Minnesotans joke that we only have two seasons: Winter and Road Construction.
For homeowners, the reality is a bit more nuanced. When you need a new roof, you are fighting against the calendar. You need to find that “Goldilocks” window where the temperature is warm enough for the shingles to seal, but not so hot that the asphalt scuffs under the crew’s boots.
At Roofing MPLS, we install roofs from the first thaw in March until the snow flies in November. However, each season comes with its own set of pros, cons, and financial considerations.
If you are planning a replacement for 2026, here is the breakdown of when to pull the trigger.
Planning Your Timeline
Before we look at the calendar, remember that a roof replacement is a major construction project. It requires permits, material delivery, and crew scheduling. It is rarely a “next day” service unless it is an emergency.
For a deeper dive into material lifespans and seasonal maintenance checklists, check these comprehensive roofing guides which cover everything from preventing ice dams to understanding ventilation requirements.
Once you have your research done, here is how the seasons stack up.
Spring (April – May): The “Early Bird” Strategy
Spring is arguably the smartest time to replace your roof in Minnesota, provided the rain cooperates.
The Pros:
- scheduling: Crews are fresh after the winter break. Wait times are typically shorter in April and May than they are in September.
- Storm Prep: By replacing your roof in Spring, you are fully protected before the heavy June and July storm season hits the Twin Cities.
- Temperature: 50°F to 60°F is an ideal installation temperature. It is comfortable for the crew (meaning high productivity) and warm enough for shingles to handle without cracking.
The Cons:
- Rain Delays: “April Showers” are real. We watch the radar like hawks. A rainy spring can push schedules back by a week or two.
Summer (June – August): The High Season
Summer is peak season. The days are long, allowing us to work from 7 AM to 7 PM and often finish a standard Mahtomedi home in a single day.
The Pros:
- Instant Sealing: The thermal sealant strip on the back of every shingle needs heat to activate. In the summer sun, your new roof will seal effectively immediately, making it wind-resistant instantly.
- Efficiency: Long daylight hours mean fewer days of disruption for your family.
The Cons:
- Extreme Heat: On days when it hits 95°F+ with high humidity, asphalt shingles can get soft. We have to be incredibly careful not to “scuff” the granules while walking on them. On extreme heat days, we often start at dawn and stop by early afternoon to protect the material.
Fall (September – October): The “Rush”
Fall is the most popular time for roofing in Minnesota. The humidity drops, the weather is stable, and everyone is panicking about the upcoming winter.
The Pros:
- Perfect Weather: Cool, crisp air is perfect for labor. Crews can work hard without overheating.
- Winter Prep: You get the peace of mind knowing your home is sealed up tight before the first blizzard.
The Cons:
- The Bottleneck: Everyone wants a roof in October. If you wait until September to call us, you might find that our schedule is already booked out until November.
- Sealing Risks: If you install too late (late October/early November), temperatures might drop below freezing at night. If the shingles don’t get enough sun to activate the sealant strip, they might not fully bond until next spring. This can leave them vulnerable to high winter winds.
Winter (November – March): The Danger Zone
Can we roof in the winter? Technically, yes. Do we recommend it? Only in emergencies.
If you have a massive leak in January, we will clear the snow and fix it. However, winter installation has risks. Shingles become brittle and can crack when nailed. We often have to hand-seal every single shingle with roofing cement because the sun isn’t strong enough to do it naturally. This takes longer and costs more.
The Verdict: Unless water is pouring into your living room, wait for spring.
Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until the Leak Starts
The best time to replace your roof is before it fails. If your roof is nearing the 20-year mark, don’t gamble with another Minnesota winter.
Our Recommendation: Call us in the Winter or early Spring to get your estimate and lock in your spot on the schedule for an April or May install. You will beat the rush, likely get better pricing, and enjoy your summer worry-free.
Ready to plan your 2026 project? Call Roofing MPLS at +1 612-246-7079. We are happy to come out to Mahtomedi, White Bear Lake, or anywhere in the metro to help you plan your exterior renovation.
Roofing MPLS (281 Huron Ave, Mahtomedi, MN) – Your local experts for every season.