I’m curious—did you notice any difference in how the shingles handled in the cold compared to warmer weather? I’ve read that hip and ridge shingles can get brittle when it’s freezing, but I haven’t tried installing them myself yet. Did you have to do anything special to keep them from cracking, or was it just a matter of working slower and being careful? I’m debating whether to wait for a warm spell or just go for it, but I’m worried about messing up the seal.
I’ve read that hip and ridge shingles can get brittle when it’s freezing, but I haven’t tried installing them myself yet.
Honestly, I wouldn’t risk it in the cold if you’re trying to save money long-term. I did a section of my shed roof last winter—just above freezing—and even being careful, I cracked a couple of shingles. They just don’t flex the same way. Waiting for a warm spell is a pain, but replacing broken shingles later is worse, especially if you’re paying out of pocket. The seal strips also don’t bond right unless it’s warm enough, so you might end up with leaks or wind damage. If you’re on a budget, patience pays off here.
Did the same thing a few years back—tried to finish up before a snowstorm hit. Even with the sun out, those shingles felt like potato chips. Ended up snapping a couple just trying to bend them over the ridge. Learned my lesson and waited for a mild day after that. The sealant strips really do need some warmth to stick right, otherwise you’re just asking for trouble down the line. Not worth rushing, in my experience.
I get the urge to just get it done before the weather turns, but yeah, cold shingles are a pain. I tried bending them on a chilly morning once—felt like trying to fold a cracker. Ended up with a couple cracked tabs that I had to replace later. Never again.
Honestly, I don't totally buy the idea that you need it warm and sunny for every shingle job, but for the hip and ridge pieces, it really does make a difference. The sealant just doesn't grab right when it's cold, and if you force them, you're risking more trouble. If you can swing it, waiting for a day above 50°F makes things way easier.
One thing that helped me: I kept the bundles inside overnight, then only brought out what I needed at a time. They stayed flexible longer that way. Not perfect, but better than nothing if you're stuck working in the cold.
Keeping the bundles inside overnight is a game changer, I agree. I’ve tried to rush hip and ridge installs in late fall—never worth it. Had to redo a section after the tabs cracked and the sealant never set right. If you can wait for a warmer day, do it... learned that the hard way.
