What Happens If It Rains During My Roof Project?

If you’re preparing for a roof replacement in Kansas, you’ve probably wondered: What happens if it rains during my roof project? After all, Kansas weather is famously unpredictable—sunshine one minute, storms the next.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about how roofing projects are affected by rain, whether roofers can safely work in wet conditions, and what steps professional contractors take to protect your home when weather changes suddenly.

Why Weather Matters During a Roof Replacement

Roofing is one of the most weather-sensitive construction jobs. The process of tearing off old materials and installing new ones exposes vulnerable parts of your home to the elements. When handled correctly, even a large roofing project can be completed without complications—but when unexpected rain hits, things can go wrong fast without proper planning.

Can Roofers Work in the Rain?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions we get: Can roofers work in the rain? The short answer is—it depends.

Light drizzle or mist may not always stop progress, especially on preparation tasks like staging materials or setting up safety equipment. But actual installation (especially of underlayment and shingles) is another matter entirely.

Why working in rain is risky:

• Slippery surfaces: Wet roofs increase the risk of slips, making it unsafe for workers to walk, carry tools, or handle materials.
• Material failure: Many roofing materials, including adhesives, flashing, and membranes, do not bond properly when applied to wet surfaces.
• Reduced visibility: Cloudy or rainy weather can make it difficult to see fine details, increasing the chances of missed issues or poor installation.
• Liability and insurance: Most licensed roofing companies have strict safety protocols that prevent their crews from working in hazardous conditions like rain or high winds.

So, while minor tasks may proceed, responsible contractors will never install roofing materials in the rain. If weather worsens, reputable crews will pause the job and protect your home.

Can You Replace a Roof in the Rain?

If you’re wondering, Can you replace a roof in the rain? — the answer is a firm no.

A full tear-off and roof replacement should never take place during rainfall. Here’s why:

• Underlayment and sheathing can absorb water, creating the perfect environment for mold and mildew.
• New shingles may not seal properly, which reduces your roof’s long-term performance.
• Moisture becomes trapped in the roofing system, leading to problems that won’t surface until months (or years) later.
• Warranties may be voided if manufacturers determine materials were installed in improper conditions.

If your contractor insists that they can replace your roof during rainfall—get a second opinion. Even if they offer a discount, it’s not worth the future risk to your home.

What Happens if It Starts Raining During Roofing?

So what happens if a rainstorm starts in the middle of your roof project?

Experienced roofing companies have contingency plans for this exact situation. At Rhoden Roofing, we monitor the weather closely before and during every project. However, should a sudden storm develop, we take these steps:

1. Stop the project immediately

Our crews will halt all installation work to prevent compromising materials or workmanship.

2. Secure all tools and materials

This helps avoid injuries, blown-away debris, and damaged supplies.

3. Tarp exposed areas

Any part of your roof that has been torn off will be covered with heavy-duty waterproof tarps. These are tightly secured to protect the decking and attic from water intrusion.

4. Resume work when safe

We’ll return once conditions are dry, and all surfaces are inspected to ensure they are moisture-free before restarting.

In short, rain during roofing doesn’t mean your home is at risk—as long as your contractor is proactive and prepared.

Rain Delays: What Homeowners Should Expect

Rain can delay a roofing project, sometimes by a few hours and sometimes by a full day or more. While delays are inconvenient, they are a normal part of roofing in areas like Kansas where pop-up storms are common.

Here’s what to expect if your roof project is delayed due to weather:

• Clear communication from your contractor
• Rescheduling of critical installation tasks (e.g., underlayment or shingle application)
• Protection of your home overnight or between workdays
• Adjustment to your project timeline

Remember: a one-day delay is better than a 10-year leak.

What If the Forecast Shows Rain the Week of My Project?

Roofing schedules are built with some weather flexibility in mind. If there’s a chance of light rain in the forecast:

• Your contractor may wait to begin tear-off until a clear window opens.
• If it looks like several consecutive days of storms are coming, the job may be rescheduled altogether.
• Crews will never tear off more of the roof than they can re-cover the same day.

At Rhoden Roofing, we build every schedule with local weather trends in mind. We don’t gamble with your home’s protection.

Why Material Type Matters During Rain

Not all roofing materials behave the same way in wet conditions. Here’s how some common options respond to rain:

Asphalt shingles

Most common in Kansas homes. They require dry conditions for proper sealing and installation. Installing in wet weather can result in poor adhesion and long-term failure.

Underlayment

This waterproof barrier is installed under shingles. If it gets wet before the shingles are in place, it may wrinkle or tear—making it ineffective.

Synthetic membranes (TPO/PVC/EPDM)

Used on low-slope or flat roofs. These can be dangerous to install wet and are prone to leaks if not sealed in dry conditions.

Wood shakes or metal

Less common for residential, but even these require dry substrate for a secure install.

Bottom line: no matter your material, moisture can compromise performance.

How Rhoden Roofing Prepares for Rain

We’ve been roofing in Kansas long enough to know the weather doesn’t always cooperate. That’s why we follow a strict set of procedures on every project to make sure your home stays safe—rain or shine.

Our weather protocol includes:

• Checking multiple weather models daily
• Never tearing off more than we can re-cover the same day
• Securing tarps on any exposed decking
• Using protective coverings for landscaping and gutters
• Delaying adhesive or flashing work until conditions are dry

We treat your home like it’s our own—because that’s the level of care homeowners deserve.

Rain During Roof Replacement: What You Can Do as a Homeowner

While your roofing crew should take the lead on weather protection, here are a few things you can do to help minimize any impact from rain:

• Move valuable items away from attic ceilings just in case a leak forms.
• Ask your contractor about their rain plan ahead of time.
• Document the condition of your roof pre-project with photos.
• Report any water intrusion immediately so it can be addressed.

If you’re working with a reputable roofer, you shouldn’t have to worry. But clear communication helps everyone stay on the same page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Roof Replacement in Kansas

For a complete overview of the roof replacement process—including timing, materials, contractor selection, and weather considerations—check out our full guide:
The Complete Homeowner’s Guide to Roof Replacement in Kansas

This resource answers all the big questions homeowners face before, during, and after their roofing project.

Let’s Talk About Your Roof 

Kansas weather may be unpredictable, but your roofing project doesn’t have to be. The key is working with a contractor who plans for every scenario—including rain.

At Rhoden Roofing, we know how to keep your roof protected, your home dry, and your project on track—even when the skies don’t cooperate. If you’re planning a roofing project and want peace of mind, contact our team for a free consultation or roof assessment.

Rain might delay your project, but it should never derail it.