5 Tips for Cold Weather Welding

When the temperature begins to dip, welding roofing materials takes on special challenges. Here are our tips to ensuring a watertight weld in cold weather. 

1. Go slow 
   Reducing your speed can result in a better weld in cold weather. The slower the speed the more time material has in contact with the hot air. 
2. Turn it up 
   Increasing the tool’s temperature can help compensate for the lower temperature of the material and surrounding environment. 
3. Don’t forget the wind 
   The wind on a roof can create a significant decrease in temperature. Make sure you account for this. 
4. Test often 
   Make sure test welds are done often. Changes in cloud cover, wind, and time of day all affect temperature which could require changing your tool’s settings. Make sure test welds are done on a flat, dry, and clean surface; do not weld directly on concrete instead place a piece of plywood between the ground and material. 
5. Cover up 
   Consider using a portable tent shelter to shield the area being welded from the outside environment. 

The real key to successful cold weather welding is being aware of the changes in the environment and adjusting your tools accordingly. Check your welds often to make sure tool adjustments are working. 

Still have questions? Contact your technical sales representative to discuss. ​