Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Wisconsin's Climate

Wisconsin roofs face it all: heavy snow, ice, hail, high summer heat, and big temperature swings. Choosing a material that handles all of it is the key to getting the full lifespan from your roof.

Architectural asphalt shingles are the most popular choice for good reason. They're affordable, available in many colors, and when installed with proper underlayment and ventilation they handle our climate well. We install lines from Owens Corning, Malarkey, and CertainTeed.

Impact-resistant shingles are a step up for hail-prone areas. They're built to resist cracking from hail, and some insurance carriers offer discounts for them. They cost a bit more than standard architectural shingles.

Standing seam metal is the long-term option. It sheds snow quickly, resists wind and fire, and can last decades. The higher upfront cost is the main trade-off.

Exposed-fastener metal is common on barns, garages, and outbuildings. It's economical, but the screws need periodic inspection as the washers age.

Flat and low-slope roofs need membranes like EPDM or TPO, not shingles. These are common on additions, porches, and commercial buildings.

Whatever material you choose, the system matters as much as the surface: ice and water shield at eaves and valleys, synthetic underlayment, proper ventilation, and new flashing. A premium shingle on a poor system will fail early.

Not sure which fits your home? Our estimator lets you compare materials for your exact roof size, and we're happy to walk through options during an inspection.