Wisconsin weather is no joke, especially when it comes to your roof. In Madison, snow, freeze-thaw cycles, hail, wind, moisture, and sun all take a toll, and the damage usually builds up over years rather than in one storm. Here is how weather affects your roof in Madison, and what to check each season to protect your home. Ice along the eave is the visible sign of an ice dam. How Weather Affects Your Roof in Madison Heavy Snow Loads Winter storms can dump feet of snow, creating serious structural stress. Roofs in Madison need a structure designed for local snow loads to prevent sagging or collapse. Snow weight makes it important to choose lighter roofing materials unless your home is designed for the extra load. This is why clay and slate tiles are fairly uncommon on roofs in the Midwest: they are heavy! Freeze and Thaw Cycles With frequent temperature swings between freezing and thawing, materials expand and contract. This can cause shingle cracks, lift flashing, and accelerate wear. Regular inspections are key to catching early signs of damage. Ice Dams When snow on your roof melts during the day and refreezes at night, it can create a ridge of ice near the roof edge. This “dam” traps water behind it, which can then seep under shingles and into your home. In Madison, where freeze-thaw cycles are common, ice dams are a major winter roofing hazard. Proper attic insulation and ventilation are your best defenses, since they keep roof temperatures more consistent and reduce uneven melting. Heated cables or professional snow removal can also help if ice dams become a recurring issue. Solar can change where snow and ice collect, though. Rack-mounted panels sit in rows with wide setbacks that can catch sliding snow, and the array’s own heat can melt snow that then refreezes just below the lower edge, which makes a dam there more likely. Solstice solar shingles sit flush and have much smaller setbacks, so a dam at the array edge is less likely, though not impossible. Either way, ice dams start with heat escaping from the attic, so insulation and ventilation come first. Hail Storms Spring and summer often bring hailstorms that can bruise or puncture shingles. This is one of the most common insurance claim triggers in Wisconsin. While no product is hail-proof, CertainTeed Solstice solar shingles are Class 3 impact rated, similar to traditional asphalt shingles and solar panels. Some customers opt for enhanced hail protection in the form of Class 4 impact-rated shingles, such as CertainTeed’s NorthGate ClimateFlex asphalt shingle. Some insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for customers who install these products, so check with your insurance agent. High Winds and Severe Thunderstorms Wind gusts can lift shingles if they aren’t properly fastened. Choosing wind-rated shingles and following best practices for nail placement and decking attachment is critical. In high-wind or tornado-prone areas, some homeowners add hurricane clips (metal clips that connect roof rafters to wall plates) for extra structural uplift protection. Humidity and Condensation Warm indoor air meeting cold attic surfaces leads to condensation. This can promote mold and rot. A balanced attic ventilation system helps prevent these problems before they start. Without proper ventilation, trapped heat and moisture can also damage the decking and shorten roof life. Heavy Rainfall Madison sees intense rainfall events, especially in summer. Your roof and gutter system must be designed for fast drainage, with high-performance underlayment and reliable gutters and downspouts. Poor water shedding leads to pooling, leaks, and even foundation or structural risks. UV Exposure & Roof Aging South- and west-facing slopes take the most UV, breaking down granules and weakening shingles. Using certified products from a reputable manufacturer and regular roof inspections can extend your roof’s lifespan. Microclimates and Shaded Areas Shady or lakeside homes dry slowly, inviting moss, algae, and debris. Beyond looks, these phenomena can create real roofing issues. Algae traps moisture and can accelerate shingle granule loss, shortening roof lifespan. Moss can work its way under shingle edges, lifting them and increasing vulnerability to wind uplift and water intrusion. Many reputable shingle manufacturers build algae resistance into their products, such as CertainTeed’s StreakFighter, which uses copper-infused granules to help prevent algae streaks. Regular cleaning and periodic soft washing help prevent algae buildup and long-term staining. What Should Madison Homeowners Check Each Season? No two Wisconsin winters are exactly alike. Larger climate patterns, including the 2026 Super El Niño, can significantly shift which threats hit hardest in a given year: more freeze-thaw cycles, rain-on-snow events, or wetter shoulder seasons. Checking things seasonally will help you avoid surprises from the weather’s impact on your roof: Spring Inspect for winter damage (shingles, flashing, ice dams) Clear out gutters and downspouts Check soffit and fascia for water intrusion Summer Watch for hail and monitor attic heat buildup Inspect your attic’s ventilation performance Clean debris from roof after storms (twigs, leaves, branches) Schedule any planned roof or solar work for dry weather Fall Remove fallen leaves and debris from gutters and roof Inspect flashing and vents Prep for snow season with a full roof and attic inspection Winter Prevent ice dams with good insulation and attic ventilation Monitor snow load, consider safe snow removal if buildup is excessive Watch for leaks or ceiling stains during thaws A roof in fair weather still takes years of UV and moisture wear. What Does a Roof Replacement Typically Cost in Madison? Madison’s weather doesn’t usually destroy a roof all at once. More often, snow loads, freeze–thaw cycles, UV exposure, and moisture add up over years, gradually shortening a roof’s lifespan. If your roof is aging, or if you’re trying to avoid being forced into a winter replacement, it can be helpful to understand the cost of replacement before it becomes urgent. Planning ahead gives you more flexibility on timing, shingle selection for Wisconsin, and upgrades like impact-rated shingles or solar. Most standard single-family asphalt roof replacements in the Madison area run $14,000 to $22,000, with a median near $17,000. Smaller homes typically run $6,800 to $12,000, and larger or complex homes $23,000 to $35,000 or more. To get a number for your own roof, our online roof replacement estimate tool gives you a realistic price range based on your roof size and layout. Frequently Asked Questions What weather damages roofs most in Madison? Repeated freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow, hail and wind do the most damage to Madison roofs, and moisture trapped in the attic adds to it. Damage usually builds up over years, so a yearly inspection catches problems before they become leaks. Do ice dams damage a roof? Yes. An ice dam traps melting water behind it, and that water can seep under shingles and into your home. Attic insulation and ventilation are the best defense because they keep roof temperatures more even. Can hail damage asphalt shingles? Yes. Hail can bruise or puncture shingles, and no shingle is hail-proof. Class 4 impact-rated shingles such as CertainTeed NorthGate ClimateFlex offer more protection, and some insurers offer discounts, so check with your agent. How often should I have my roof inspected in Madison? Check your roof each spring for winter damage and each fall before snow season, and after any major storm. Sun Vault Roofing offers free roof inspections for Madison-area homeowners. How much does a roof replacement cost in Madison? Most standard single-family asphalt roof replacements in the Madison area run $14,000 to $22,000, with a median near $17,000. Larger or complex homes run $23,000 to $35,000 or more. Our online estimate tool gives a range for your roof in minutes. Get a Weather-Ready Roof with Sun Vault Roofing Madison’s weather is unpredictable, but your roof doesn’t have to be. At Sun Vault Roofing, we design roofing systems built for Wisconsin’s extremes, from energy-efficient solar shingles to complete storm-resistant installations. Get ahead of weather affecting your roof in Madison, WI. Schedule a free inspection to check your roof’s seasonal readiness or get help after a storm. 📞 Call 608-608-1082 today.

The main roof maintenance benefits are fewer surprise repairs, a longer-lasting roof, and lower energy bills. Catching a small problem early is usually cheap or free, and it keeps a minor issue from turning into a leak. That matters in Wisconsin, where your roof holds thousands of pounds of snow every winter and goes through constant freeze-thaw swings. A rendering of a home with a well-kept asphalt shingle roof. What Are the Roof Maintenance Benefits for a Wisconsin Home? How Does Roof Maintenance Extend Your Roof’s Lifespan? Over time, exposure to Wisconsin’s harsh winters, heavy rains, and high winds can cause wear and tear on your roof. Regular inspections help identify small issues before they become major problems, allowing for timely repairs and ultimately extending your roof’s lifespan. Does Roof Maintenance Prevent Costly Repairs? Minor roof issues, such as loose shingles, small leaks, or clogged gutters, can quickly escalate into expensive repairs if left unaddressed. Routine maintenance helps catch these issues early. A small fix made during an inspection is often free, and it can keep a $250 repair from turning into a $500 to $2,000 one. Can Roof Maintenance Prevent Water Damage and Mold? Unchecked roof leaks can lead to water infiltration, damaging your home’s insulation, walls, and ceilings. Persistent moisture can also create the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth, which poses health risks. Regular inspections ensure your roof remains watertight and free from leaks. Does Roof Maintenance Protect Your Warranty and Insurance Coverage? Roofing warranties and homeowners’ insurance both come with conditions. Manufacturers can limit coverage for problems like poor attic ventilation, and some recommend regular inspections. Homeowners’ insurance generally covers sudden damage, not wear or neglect over time. Regular inspections let you catch and fix small problems early and give you a record that the roof was looked after. Check your own warranty and policy for the exact terms. If you have a Sun Vault Roofing roof, how to read a roofing warranty explains what our Sun Vault One Vault Warranty covers. Insurance deadlines are another reason to get your roof inspected after a storm. Policies vary, and it is common in Wisconsin to see 6, 12, or 24 months from the date of loss to file a claim or to finish the work, so check yours and call your insurer if you need more time. Hail rarely turns into a leak quickly unless the roof already has problems, so we generally recommend scheduling insurance-funded work as late as your policy allows. That gives your new roof more years of life. It is also different from the storm chasers who want a signature fast because they will be out of town when the next storm hits. Does Roof Maintenance Lower Your Energy Bills? A well-maintained roof plays a crucial role in regulating indoor temperatures. Damaged or missing shingles, poor ventilation, and inadequate insulation can make it harder to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, which raises energy bills. Keeping your roof in good condition helps hold in heated and cooled air and keeps heating and cooling costs down. Does Roof Maintenance Improve Your Home’s Value? A roof in good condition enhances property value and curb appeal, making your home more attractive to potential buyers. Whether you’re planning to sell your home or simply want to maintain its integrity, periodic roof maintenance is a smart investment. Trees overhanging a roof drop leaves and debris onto it, one reason regular checkups matter. What Does Routine Roof Maintenance Include? To keep your roof in top shape, consider these essential maintenance tasks: Clean Gutters & Downspouts – Remove leaves and debris so water drains and does not back up or overflow. Do this once or twice a year depending on tree cover, and a good roofing company can inspect your roof while cleaning. This is especially important before winter! Inspect & Replace Damaged Shingles – Look for curling, missing, or cracked shingles, which leave your home vulnerable to leaks. Check Flashing & Seals – Ensure a tight seal around chimneys, vents, and skylights to prevent water intrusion. Check for Pooling Water – Flat or low-slope roofs should drain properly, because standing water can lead to leaks and structural issues. Assess Attic Ventilation & Insulation – Poor airflow can lead to moisture buildup, mold growth, and higher energy bills. Look for Moss & Algae Growth – Organic buildup can weaken shingles and trap moisture, shortening your roof’s lifespan. This can also reduce your home’s curb appeal. How Often Should You Have Your Roof Inspected? How often depends on your roof’s age and risk, not a single calendar rule. A new roof is worth a first inspection at about 5 years, or sooner after a major weather event. Once a roof is 15 years old, get it inspected every other year. That is when minor problems start to appear. Caught then, it is often a 5-minute caulking fix that is free or nominal while the inspector is up there, instead of a $250 to $500 repair next year or a larger bill if the problem festers. It is also the point where handling problems early actually extends the life of your whole roof. Inspect twice a year, in spring and fall, if your roof is more than 20 years old, has a history of repairs, sits in a storm-prone area, or has 3-tab shingles. Also schedule an inspection after major storms or heavy snowfall. For a roof Sun Vault Roofing installs, with no storm damage, most customers should not expect major roofing needs for at least 20 years. Wisconsin may see more rain, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles than in a typical year because of the 2026 Super El Niño, which makes the fall inspection especially useful for older roofs. If you only get one inspection per year, make it the spring one. A post-winter roof inspection catches small issues once they're visible after snowmelt, before April rains turn those small problems into bigger ones. Roof Maintenance FAQs How often should I have my roof inspected in Wisconsin? It depends on the roof. A newer roof needs a first inspection at about 5 years or after a major storm, and a roof 15 years or older is worth inspecting every other year. Roofs over 20 years old, with known problems, or with 3-tab shingles should be inspected twice a year, in spring and fall. What does routine roof maintenance include? Routine maintenance means cleaning gutters, replacing damaged shingles, checking flashing and seals, looking for pooling water, assessing attic ventilation and insulation, and treating moss or algae. A professional inspection covers all of these in one visit. Does skipping maintenance affect my warranty or insurance? It can. Manufacturer warranties limit coverage for things like poor attic ventilation, and some recommend regular inspections, while homeowners’ insurance generally covers sudden damage, not wear or neglect. Regular inspections help you catch problems early and show the roof was cared for. Check your own policy and warranty for exact terms. Is roof maintenance worth it for a newer roof? Yes, but a newer roof needs less of it. A first inspection around year 5, or after a major storm, catches a lifted shingle or failing sealant while it is a small, cheap fix. For a roof Sun Vault Roofing installs, with no storm damage, most customers should not expect major roofing needs for at least 20 years. Get a Free Roof Inspection with Sun Vault Roofing Regular maintenance is the key to extending the life of your roof and protecting your home from costly damage. Sun Vault Roofing offers comprehensive roof inspections and maintenance services to ensure your roof remains in top condition. Sun Vault Roofing received the 2026 BBB Spark Award for Entrepreneurship, which recognizes emerging businesses for ethics, trust, and community impact. Do not wait for a small issue to become a costly repair. Request your free roof inspection today or call us at 608-608-1082.

Metal roofing is having a moment. It's trendy and advertised as ultra-durable. You may have seen it featured on new builds or remodels in Wisconsin, and you’ve certainly seen it plastered all over social media. So when homeowners ask us, 'Do you install metal roofs?' we understand why. But the honest answer is: no, we don’t. For most Wisconsin homes, metal costs about 3x asphalt and doesn’t pay back, so we recommend asphalt or solar shingles instead. At Sun Vault Roofing, we believe in offering roofing systems that provide the best value, performance, and fit for most Wisconsin homes. That’s why we specialize in premium asphalt roofing and integrated solar shingle solutions. In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of metal vs asphalt roofs, explain why metal roofing is often oversold, and help you determine what roofing system truly delivers the best return on your investment. We’re not here to bash metal roofing. It has its place! But for most homes in Wisconsin, it’s not the smartest investment, and at Sun Vault Roofing, we don't try to upsell you something that doesn’t make financial sense. Metal roofing is marketed as ultra-durable, but the costs and trade-offs add up over decades. Metal vs. Asphalt Roofs: What Does Each Cost Over Time? Let’s run the numbers. Metal roofs are durable, can look sharp, and may last a long time. But they just don’t make financial sense for most Wisconsin homeowners. Let’s compare two hypothetical options: Roof Type Cost Lifespan Asphalt $20k 30 years Metal $45k 70 years At first glance, a metal roof seems like a “buy it once” solution. But here’s the catch: a metal roof typically costs about 3x what asphalt does up front. Even in this conservative example, it costs more than twice as much. Now imagine you stayed in your home for 70 years. You might need two or three asphalt roofs during that time, which could total around $47,000 over the decades. That’s just a little more than the one-time cost of a metal roof. So is metal the better deal? Sorry. Still no. Because when you spread those asphalt replacement costs out over 60+ years, they’re way less painful. A roof you pay for in 2055 costs a lot less in today’s dollars than one you pay for right now. In economics, this is called the time value of money, and it makes a big difference. We even ran the math (see our chart below). Once you factor in inflation and basic economics, asphalt comes out ahead. That’s why at Sun Vault Roofing, we stick with what makes the most sense for our customers: high-quality asphalt roofing that’s affordable, proven, and built to last. Over 70 years, asphalt roofs cost less than metal roofs, even after multiple replacements. This is because money is worth more right now than in several decades. Asphalt roofs have a predictable lifecycle in Wisconsin, which makes it easy to plan ahead for maintenance or replacement costs instead of shelling out one large sum upfront for a 70-year metal roof. Metal Roofs Require Snow Guards, Increasing their Cost There’s another cold reality homeowners often overlook with metal roofs. They’re slick . . . dangerously slick. Because they are so slippery, snow and ice can build up and then slide off in heavy sheets without warning, flattening whatever (or whomever) is below. That’s why most metal roofs in Wisconsin need snow guards or snow rail systems to prevent sudden avalanches. These usually aren’t optional. Without them, snow sliding off your roof can damage landscaping, crush gutters, or injure someone you care about. Even with guards installed, they’re not foolproof. Poorly-installed systems or cheap materials can still fail, putting more than your wallet at risk. Snow management systems also add to the already steep price tag of a metal roof. Depending on your setup: Individual snow guards can run up to $15 per piece. And you may need dozens or hundreds. Bar or rail-style snow retention systems can cost up to $40 per linear foot For many homes, that’s an extra $2,000 to $8,000, just to make your already-pricey metal roof as safe as a standard asphalt roof. Asphalt roofs handle snow differently. Shingles are textured, high-friction, and designed to slow snow movement naturally. Snow retention is built right into the product, with no expensive add-ons required. It’s another reason why asphalt makes more sense for most Wisconsin homes. Do Metal Roofs Prevent Ice Dams? Ice dams form when heat escaping from the house melts snow on the roof and the meltwater refreezes at the eaves. Insulation, air sealing and attic ventilation prevent them, whether the roof is metal or asphalt. Ice dam prevention starts there. Metal Roofs: What You’ve Heard (and What to Know) Yes, metal roofs can last 40–70 years. That’s the headline that grabs attention. But there’s a lot homeowners don’t hear upfront. There are a few caveats we think you should know. Metal roof sticker shock is real. Metal roofing costs about 3x a high-quality asphalt system. That’s not a small difference. It’s tens of thousands of dollars more, upfront. A Metal Roof Might Outlast Your Time in the Home Sure, a metal roof may last 70 years . . . but will you be in your house that long? Most people move or refinance before then, meaning you may never fully benefit from that lifespan. Not All Metal Roofs Are Created Equal There are two main types of metal roofs: Standing seam (great, but expensive) Metal Panel / R-panel (cheaper, but prone to leaks) If a metal roof quote comes in at a price that is close to your asphalt quote, it’s almost certainly an R-panel. These have exposed fasteners which are prone to rust and leaking. We strongly recommend avoiding these for residential homes in Wisconsin. Metal Roof Installation Is Specialized (and Easy to Mess Up) Metal roof systems require special equipment and training. When done right, they perform well. But poor installation can lead to: Leaks at seams Noise from rain and thermal expansion Costly fixes down the road Over the years, we’ve helped homeowners evaluate both asphalt and metal roofing on real projects, not just spec sheets. What we see consistently is that metal roofing becomes significantly more complex as roof geometry increases. Multiple planes, valleys, dormers, and transitions all introduce additional seams, fasteners, and flashing details. Each one is a potential failure point if not executed perfectly. In practice, many homeowners with complex rooflines end up choosing asphalt not only because it’s cheaper, but because it’s more forgiving, easier to detail correctly, and far less sensitive to small installation errors over time. Metal Roofs Dent . . . Easily Metal roofs are tough, but they're not immune to impact damage. Hail, acorns, and other falling debris can leave visible dents and dings, even high-end standing seam metal roofs. Those impacts chip away at protective coatings, leaving bare metal exposed to the elements and vulnerable to rust or corrosion. In fact, metal roofs are vulnerable to hail stones of much smaller sizes than typical Class 3 asphalt shingles (the basic quality used by most reputable asphalt roofers). Class 3 shingles must withstand 20-foot drops from 1.75-inch steel balls. But hail stones as small as ¾ inches in diameter can dent metal roofs. Because Madison and the rest of southern Wisconsin regularly see hail in the ¾-inch range, even premium metal roofs can pick up visible dents from storms that leave far less visible mark on most high-quality asphalt roofs. Impact damage on a brand new standing seam metal roof. Dents like these can chip protective coatings, leaving the metal exposed to rust and water pooling. Even completely new roofs are not immune! Photo: u/Virtual-Ocelot-5825 (Reddit) Let's not forget that while it's hailing outside, you are probably seeking refuge inside. And if "inside" for you means a home covered in metal, congratulations! You've just procured free, front-row seats to the UW Badgers percussion drumline. Best of luck sleeping through that. In rain and hail testing, bare metal panels measured about 52 decibels against about 46 for asphalt shingles, and roofing material noise levels explains what actually changes how loud a roof sounds inside. Yes, Metal Roofs Can Rust Even steel roofs with protective coatings can develop rust in 10–20 years, especially if they’re not maintained or installed perfectly. Dented metal roofs are at even higher risk. Impacts from hail or debris can break through protective coatings, exposing the raw metal underneath. Those dents also create shallow low spots where water can collect. Standing water is the enemy of all roof types. It accelerates rust and wear. Once rust takes hold, it weakens the roof and can eventually lead to leaks. That’s a big reason we don’t recommend metal roofs for storm-prone areas like southern Wisconsin. Metal Roofing Warranties Often Look Better Than They Are Many metal roof warranties are prorated and may not cover: Cosmetic damage (fading, dents, rust) Improper installation (which is common) Roofing warranties can be confusing, and for metal roofs especially, it’s worth reading the fine print before committing, especially if you live in a storm-prone area of Wisconsin where hail and debris damage is common. No, Metal Roofs are not More Efficient than Asphalt Roofs The efficiency of your roof has very little to do with your roof. It has to do with the insulation between your home and the attic. In most homes, there is little to no impact on your home's indoor temperature or energy use due to the color or material of your roof. Metal Roofs are Not Necessarily More Sustainable than Asphalt Roofs Metal roofs are easy to recycle and sometimes made from recycled material. And yes, replacing them less often reduces waste and material footprints. But asphalt shingles are recyclable too! Dane County recycles old shingles, turning them into pavement for local roads. Asphalt shingles are the number 1 recycled material in Dane County and in the United States. If you want the full picture on how that process works, asphalt shingle recycling in Wisconsin is worth understanding before your next roof replacement. Plus, in Wisconsin the energy savings don’t always pencil out. Reflective metal roofs can actually increase heating costs in winter, which outweighs any cooling benefit. Though this is only likely to be a problem if you lack proper insulation or ventilation. In temperate regions like Wisconsin, as long as your attic is properly insulated and ventilated, your roof color and material don't typically impact your annual energy usage. A brown asphalt shingle roof, the option we recommend for most Wisconsin homes. Asphalt shingles are the most cost-effective and reliable roofing material for Wisconsin homes When it comes to roof material, there are many options. But specific regions tend to align on one to two materials that are most appropriate given that area's climate. In Wisconsin, that material is asphalt. Here's why: Excellent value: Modern asphalt roofs last 20–30+ years at a fraction of the cost of metal. Thanks to technological innovations, manufacturer warranties on premium asphalt systems now reach 50 years, a sign the newer generation of shingles is built to last longer. Aesthetic variety: Options like architectural and designer shingles offer curb appeal and enhanced durability without metal’s industrial look. High performance: Asphalt performs well against snow and temperature swings, especially in the cold-to-temperate climate of Wisconsin. They are resistant to larger hail sizes than metal roofs. Easier repairs and better warranties: Easier to patch and widely supported by major manufacturers like CertainTeed. Domestic manufacturing: because most asphalt shingles are manufactured here in the USA, they are less exposed to price and availability fluctuations than metal which is often imported (and therefore subject to tariffs). Quieter: No rain ping or expansion noise. At Sun Vault Roofing, we install CertainTeed asphalt roofing systems backed by the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty: CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star coverage, non-prorated for 50 years, plus our 20-year workmanship warranty. Asphalt is not the answer in every climate or application. For example, in the constant, direct heat and low humidity of the American Southwest, asphalt shingles get absolutely roasted. The heat makes the volatile compounds in the shingles evaporate, significantly hastening deterioration. This is why clay and concrete tiles are so popular there. What About Solar Compatibility? Many homeowners exploring metal are also interested in solar energy. You can install solar on standing seam metal without drilling holes, because panels clamp to the seams. The catch: in our experience, that is usually still more expensive in total than an asphalt roof with integrated solar shingles, based on customers who compared both options and went with our method. Exposed-fastener metal panel also generally needs new holes through the roof to mount anything. Asphalt has an edge on snow, too. Metal needs snow guards, and an array above an entry or exit is more dangerous when snow can slide off it. Instead, we recommend CertainTeed Solstice Shingles, a sleek, integrated system that replaces a portion of your asphalt shingles with solar-generating ones. Beautiful aesthetics, lower maintenance. Learn more about our solar shingles vs. solar panels comparison to see why more Wisconsin homeowners are choosing roof-integrated solar. If you're weighing roofing options and solar has crossed your mind, the conversation is bigger than panels bolted to shingles. solar roofing in Wisconsin is gaining real traction, and the reasons why matter if you're planning a roof replacement in the next few years. What We Recommend at Sun Vault Roofing We only recommend systems that provide our customers with proven long-term value. We’ve reviewed the data, evaluated warranties, inspected aging roofs, and talked to homeowners who’ve lived with both metal and asphalt. And for most residential properties in Wisconsin, asphalt wins. We also prioritize: Ease of service: Our teams are trained in shingle and solar shingle systems Product compatibility: Asphalt pairs seamlessly with attic ventilation, flashing, and insulation systems Honest expectations: We won’t sell you a 70-year roof if you won’t be in your home for 30 Visual Comparison: Metal vs. Asphalt at a Glance Feature Asphalt Shingles Metal Roof (Standing Seam) Upfront Cost Lower About 3x the cost of asphalt Lifespan 20–30+ years 40–70 years Repairability Easy to patch Repairs require partial replacement Installation Standardized, familiar Specialized, high risk of errors Noise Quiet Louder in rain and hail unless well insulated Aesthetics Traditional to upscale Industrial, rustic, or modern Solar Compatibility Compatible or integrated Seam clamps, no drilling; usually costs more overall than integrated solar shingles Risk of Rust No Yes, especially in hail areas Real ROI Higher, based on Net Present Value Lower, even for long-term owners When Metal Roofing Can Make Sense for your Home Metal roofs aren’t inherently wrong. In limited, well-defined situations, they can be a reasonable choice. Metal roofing tends to work best when: The structure has a simple roof design, such as a detached garage, shed, barn, or single-plane addition The homeowner is prepared for significantly higher upfront cost in exchange for longevity (from which they may not directly benefit) Snow management, detailing, and maintenance are properly planned from day one We’ve installed metal successfully on outbuildings and secondary structures where complexity is low and long-term expectations are clear. Where we see problems is when metal is applied to complex residential homes and marketed as a universal upgrade, without accounting for geometry, climate, or long-term maintenance realities. For most Wisconsin homes, asphalt remains the safer and more predictable system. Metal vs. Asphalt Roofs: Common Questions Is a metal roof worth it in Wisconsin? For most Wisconsin homes, no. Metal typically costs about 3x asphalt up front, dents in the hail southern Wisconsin sees regularly, and most homeowners move before a 70-year lifespan pays off. It can make sense on simple structures like barns and outbuildings. Does Sun Vault Roofing install metal roofs? No. Sun Vault Roofing installs CertainTeed asphalt shingles, CertainTeed Solstice solar shingles and conventional solar panels for homes in the Madison area and southern Wisconsin, because we think they deliver better value for most homes here. How much more does a metal roof cost than asphalt? About 3x as much up front. Snow guards or rails, which most Wisconsin metal roofs need, add roughly $2,000 to $8,000 on many homes. Do metal roofs stand up to hail? Not cosmetically. Hail as small as 3/4 inch can dent metal, a size southern Wisconsin sees regularly, while Class 3 asphalt shingles are tested against 1.75-inch steel balls dropped 20 feet. Dents can chip coatings and lead to rust. Can you put solar panels on a metal roof? Yes. On standing seam metal, panels can clamp to the seams without drilling, but in our experience the total cost is usually higher than an asphalt roof with integrated solar shingles, and exposed-fastener panel generally needs holes through the roof. Metal also needs snow guards, which makes an array above an entry or exit more dangerous. Still Curious About Metal Roofing? We get it. Metal roofing has its place and in certain cases (e.g., barns, cabins, rural outbuildings, some businesses), it may make sense. But if you’re a Wisconsin homeowner looking for real-world performance, flexible styling, and a smart long-term investment, asphalt (or solar + asphalt) is likely your best choice. Have questions? Check out what to ask a roofing contractor or schedule a free consultation with our team. 📞 Call Sun Vault Roofing at 608-608-1082 to learn more. P.S. If after reading this you decide you still want to go metal, please at least make sure it is standing seam, not a metal panel.

Choosing a roofing contractor should be about more than just cost or availability. It’s about accountability, and long-term protection for your home. It’s about trust. While national brands and franchise names may look familiar, they don’t always deliver the local knowledge or personalized service your project deserves. At Sun Vault Roofing, we believe homeowners in Wisconsin benefit most from working with a local roofing company, one that understands the climate, the codes, and the community. A local roofing company in Wisconsin is independently owned, based in the community, and familiar with the climate, the codes and the suppliers. That is who answers the phone when something goes wrong. A 2026 Sun Vault Roofing install, a few minutes from our office at 115 Enterprise Dr in Verona. What Does “Local” Really Mean When Choosing a Roofing Contractor? If a storm tears off your shingles, do you want help from someone who lives across town, or across the country? National franchises often market themselves as “local,” but that doesn’t always mean what you think. True local roofing companies are independently owned, community-rooted businesses, not outposts for a larger corporate system. Ask upfront: Who owns your company? Is your office staffed by people from this community? If something goes wrong, will I be working with the same people who installed my roof? These questions help you distinguish a genuinely local contractor from a marketing-driven national brand. That distinction matters more than ever, especially in light of recent industry trends. Read: Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor How Does Wisconsin Weather Affect Your Roof, and Why Does Local Experience Matter? From surprise softball-sized hail storms to ice dams and 40 mph wind gusts, Wisconsin weather takes a toll on your roof. But even more important is knowing how to navigate that unpredictability. Local roofers know: When it’s actually safe to roof, even if the forecast says “chance of rain” What signs mean it’s time to tarp immediately to avoid catastrophe How to stage workdays so your home never ends up flooded due to a bad timing call Do Local Roofers Know How to Prevent Ice Dams in Wisconsin? Wisconsin winters create conditions that national contractors often underestimate. Local roofers recognize the warning signs early and know how to build and maintain roofs that resist them. When Is It Safe to Put On a New Roof in Wisconsin? Our client Abby in Waunakee experienced a mid-winter roof leaks and unfortunately the first company she called was from Texas. The company responded promptly. But actually a little too promptly. They scheduled Abby's roof replacement for the middle of February on a day where temperatures were in the 20s. Her shingles didn't set properly, and by April they were blowing off from wind by the dozens. We ultimately had to help Abby put a new roof on that same year. A Texas contractor might not know about minimum install temperatures because temperatures in Texas are rarely if ever below those minimums. Which Roofing Materials Perform Best in Wisconsin? Local roofers have deep experience with which materials hold up to Wisconsin’s freeze-thaw cycles and storm seasons. Whether it’s asphalt shingles, solar roofing, or alternatives, they can help you make informed, climate-specific decisions. By hiring a local roofer, you’ll get a roof that actually lasts through a Wisconsin winter, not one that curls up or shatters after two freeze-thaw cycles. Read: Metal vs. Asphalt Roofs: What’s Worth It in Wisconsin? Do Local Roofers Know What Wisconsin Suppliers Actually Stock? Wendy in DeForest asked us to quote her roof. She ultimately hired a roofer from Iowa, her neighbor’s brother, and signed a contract for Class 4 Landmark ClimateFlex shingles. Then she left town and trusted the Iowa roofer to get the job done. A friend walking by saw the crew at work and texted her a photo: “New roof seems like it’s going well!” Wendy looked closer and noticed that the bundle wrappers in the picture didn’t say Landmark ClimateFlex. They said Landmark PRO, a Class 3 shingle that costs substantially less. She worried she was being defrauded and called him. The Iowa roofer told her he didn’t know there was a difference between the two. We don’t buy it. A roofer not knowing the difference between a Class 3 and a Class 4 shingle is like a teacher not knowing the difference between a whiteboard and a chalkboard. But we do know how it probably happened. Local supply houses typically stock only what is made for our region, and because Wisconsin hail is so intense, that is the thicker NorthGate ClimateFlex. The local supply house we also use doesn’t carry Landmark ClimateFlex, so either someone at the counter mixed it up with Landmark PRO or the swap was deliberate. Whether it was a mix-up at the supply house or willful on the part of the Iowa roofer, it comes to the same thing. A local roofer would have known what to ask for and what was on the truck. This is one small example of a bigger problem. When crews descend on a thriving market from out of state or out of town, they don’t know the suppliers, the codes, the weather or the neighbors, and the homeowner carries the risk. If you are out of town during your project, ask your roofer for a photo of the delivered bundles. The product name is printed on the wrapper. Do Local Roofers Know Wisconsin Codes, Permits and HOA Rules? Out-of-state or national providers may be unaware of regional requirements. Local roofers understand: Permit requirements for each municipality HOA limitations on appearance, pitch, or product Utility-specific requirements when installing solar roofs Local hiring and safety regulations We’ve pulled permits in nearly every Dane County suburb, so we know the headaches to avoid. We know which colors your HOA will reject and which jobs need permits. How Does a Local Roofer Help With an Insurance Claim? Wisconsin insurance companies often have predictable procedures and adjuster preferences. Local roofers are more experienced in what documentation and inspection language works best to advocate for their customers. Further, after large storm events, local insurance companies often contract adjusters from out-of-state to help handle the large volume of claims. These individuals may be unfamiliar with how hail or wind damage present on Wisconsin roofs in particular. A local roofer can walk out-of-state adjusters through those differences and increase the chances your claim is handled fairly. Even something as simple as deciding whether or not to file a claim can be easier if you have a local roofer working with you. Someone from Wisconsin will know what's likely to be approved or denied in Wisconsin, saving you from a potential rate hike just for filing, even if it gets denied. How to Spot Storm Chasers After a Wisconsin Storm After a major storm, out-of-state contractors flood Wisconsin neighborhoods offering fast, cheap repairs. Knowing how to identify them protects you from shoddy work and insurance fraud. Here are the red flags to watch for before you sign anything. One surefire way to identify out-of-state storm chasers is their lack of familiarity with newer weather or legislative phenomena. For example, Wisconsin Act 230, signed into law in spring 2026 and effective December 1, 2026, limits what contractors can say and do about your insurance claim. A contractor who has never heard of it is a red flag. What Roofing and Solar Scams Target Wisconsin Homeowners? Storm chasers aren’t the only threat. Wisconsin homeowners are also targeted by broader roofing and solar scams that local contractors recognize on sight, and that out-of-state crews often run. Big weather headlines, like the 2026 Super El Niño, are another opening. Homeowners who aren’t familiar with these shifts are easier targets for contractors who exploit confusion. Why Is a Local Roofing Company in Wisconsin More Accountable? Reputation is Earned in the Community Local roofing companies don’t disappear once the job is done. They live and work in the same neighborhoods, and every customer becomes a future referral or online review. That means they have every reason to: Pick up the phone when you call Address issues quickly Be honest and transparent No Call Centers or Corporate Handoffs With a local team, you won’t be stuck calling a 1-800 number when something goes wrong. You’ll call and speak with the same people who inspected your roof, installed your shingles, and stand behind their work. You Know Where to Find Your Roofer, Before and After the Job Sun Vault Roofing recently opened our new office and showroom at 115 Enterprise Dr in Verona, Wisconsin, just minutes from Madison. Homeowners can stop by to meet our team, compare asphalt shingle brands and tiers, explore integrated solar roofing products, and ask questions face-to-face before making a major investment in their home. From Verona we serve Madison, Fitchburg, Middleton, Waunakee, DeForest and the rest of Dane County. And that accessibility matters just as much after installation. Whether you have a question about your warranty, need a roof repair, or want advice years down the road, you know where to find the people responsible for your roof. Local Businesses Support Local Communities Your Dollars Stay in Wisconsin When Hiring a Local Roofing Company Hiring a local roofing company means: Jobs stay in the community Profits support local nonprofits, events, and schools Your project dollars contribute to the economic health of your own city Dane Buy Local calls this the Local Multiplier: money spent at a locally owned business recirculates in the local economy 2-4 times more than money spent at a non-local company. "When you spend your dollars at a locally owned and independent business instead of a chain store or online giant. Your dollars recirculate through your local economy 2-4 times more than money spent at a non-local company. As your dollars move through your community, the money generates more local wealth, charitable contributions, and jobs." Sun Vault Roofing proudly supports these local initiatives and organizations: The Couillard Solar Foundation Capitol View Farmers’ Market Sugar Maple Music Festival Dane Buy Local Environmental Responsibility Starts with Local Roofing Choices Local contractors care about the communities they serve. By staying local, you won’t have to wonder where your old roof ends up, or if it was disposed of responsibly. At Sun Vault Roofing, we support sustainable practices like asphalt shingle recycling and educate customers about solar roofing’s role in reducing energy-related pollution in areas like Beloit, WI. The Big Picture: Why Hiring a Local Roofer Matters Long-Term As the roofing industry sees increasing consolidation, homeowners are wise to ask: “Who will I actually be working with?” At Sun Vault Roofing, we remain proudly family-owned, Wisconsin-based, and focused on long-term relationships, not fast exits. When you work with us, you're not just getting a roof. You're hiring neighbors who care about protecting what matters most: your home. Here’s what staying local gets you: A roof that holds up to Wisconsin’s wild weather A team that’s still around in 10 years Dollars that stay in your community No surprises, just neighbors doing great work Does Sun Vault Roofing Have a Strong Local Reputation in Wisconsin? Reputation is easy to claim and hard to fake. Sun Vault Roofing earned the 2026 BBB Spark Award for demonstrated commitment to ethics, community, and customer trust, the kind of recognition that only comes from a track record, not a marketing budget. Call us at 608-608-1082. The person answering the phone might even share your zip code. Local Roofing Company in Wisconsin: Frequently Asked Questions What makes a roofing company “local” in Wisconsin? A local roofing company is independently owned, staffed by people in your community, and based in your area, not an outpost of a national platform. Ask who owns the company and whether the people who installed your roof will answer the phone when something goes wrong. Why does it matter if my roofer is from Wisconsin? A Wisconsin roofer knows the freeze-thaw cycles, hail, local permit rules and which products local suppliers stock. Out-of-state crews often miss minimum install temperatures, municipal permits and HOA rules, which is where most avoidable problems start. How can I spot a storm chaser after a storm? Storm chasers arrive uninvited right after a storm, push you to sign a contract immediately, promise a “free roof” or to cover your deductible, and have no local office or references. Wisconsin Act 230, effective December 1, 2026, also limits what contractors may say about handling your insurance claim. Where is Sun Vault Roofing located? Sun Vault Roofing is at 115 Enterprise Dr in Verona, Wisconsin, just minutes from Madison, and serves Madison, Fitchburg, Middleton and the rest of Dane County. You can stop by the office and showroom or call 608-608-1082. Is Sun Vault Roofing locally owned? Yes. Sun Vault Roofing is family-owned and Wisconsin-based, and it earned the 2026 BBB Spark Award for its commitment to ethics, community and customer trust.

Here’s something most contractors never explain: “lifetime” on a roofing warranty rarely means the life of your home. If that surprises you, join the club. Before you sign, check four things in any roofing warranty: how long coverage lasts and whether it shrinks (prorates) over time, what it covers (materials, labor, tear-off), what voids it, and whether it transfers to the next owner. This guide walks through each of those in plain language, so you know what to ask any roofing company before you sign. Understanding a roofing warranty is critical when planning a roof replacement. At the same time, working with an experienced roof replacement professional ensures your roof system qualifies for strong and easy-to-understand warranty protection. Click below for a free solar and roof inspection from a qualified professional. Key Takeaways "Lifetime" doesn't mean forever. For asphalt shingles, "lifetime" means coverage lasts for as long as you own the home. It does not mean the roof lasts for the life of the home. You need two warranties, not one. A manufacturer's materials warranty and a contractor's workmanship warranty cover different things. You need both to be fully protected. Coverage can shrink over time. Many warranties include a non-prorated period with full coverage, followed by a prorated period in which the payout decreases year by year. Know which phase you're in before filing a claim. Exclusions can cost you. Third-party contractors (solar installers, HVAC techs, satellite dish crews), improper modifications, poor attic ventilation, and lack of routine maintenance are among the most common reasons warranty claims get denied. Transferable warranties add resale value. If your warranty is transferable, it becomes a legitimate selling point; buyers pay attention to features that reduce future maintenance risk. Read the fine print before you sign. The warranty document, not the marketing brochure, is what controls your coverage. Confirm what's covered, for how long, under what conditions, and what could void it. Why Do Roofing Warranties Matter? Roofing warranties matter because they protect your investment against material failures, product defects, and faulty installation. Roofing warranties can save you thousands of dollars in repair or replacement costs if an issue arises due to a manufacturer or installer error. A roof is a home’s primary protection from weather, which is why its warranty matters. You should never have to pay for a manufacturer's or installer's error. Three reasons roofing warranties matter: The Roof is One of the Biggest Investments You Make for Your Home Your roof is the primary protector of your home. It shields you from harsh weather and rain while protecting the rest of the home’s structure. Additionally, replacing a roof is not cheap, and deciding when to get one and who to work with is not a decision to be made lightly. The right investment could add significant value to your home. Not All Roofing Warranties Are Created Equal Some warranties are not worth their weight in the paper they are written on. When making such a significant investment in your home, a strong and clear roofing warranty is a must. Be sure to read the fine print and know exactly how you are covered before signing. Understanding a Roof Warranty Maximizes Protection Understanding a roof warranty and comparing contractors and roof replacement companies based on the type and strength of their warranties is the best way to maximize protection for your investment. What Are the Two Main Types of Roofing Warranties? There are two main types of roofing warranties that contractors and roofing companies offer when replacing or repairing your roof. There are manufacturer materials warranties and contractor workmanship warranties. Manufacturer Materials Warranties A manufacturer's warranty, sometimes called a product warranty, covers defects or problems arising from defects in materials during the manufacturing process. Manufacturer warranties typically come with terms like lifetime, prorated, or full-coverage for X number of years. Lifetime warranty: A lifetime warranty typically means the products are covered for as long as you own the home, not the life of the home. Prorated coverage: Prorated coverage means the coverage reduces in value by a set amount over a set period. For example, a 10-year warranty might be reduced by 10% each year, meaning the products are covered for 50% in year 5 and so on. Full-coverage: Some companies still offer a full-coverage warranty with a specific term of 5 or 10 years. Coverage is based on the value at the time of installation, not on the fair market value at the time of the claim. Transferable coverage: Whether a warranty is “lifetime”, prorated, or full-coverage, many come with an option to purchase transferable coverage. Transferable warranty coverage continues to provide protection for the next owner after a home has been sold, increasing buyer confidence and boosting listing appeal when selling your home. Contractor Workmanship Warranties Some manufacturers offer credentialing programs, training, and some on-site assistance to contractors, but most won’t insure workmanship. This is why many contractors and roofing companies offer their own workmanship warranty, guaranteeing their work for one or two years. Workmanship warranties are often voided if damage or defects result from abuse, modifications made by someone other than the contractor, or improper use. Why You Need Both Types of Coverage When installing a residential roofing system, you should seek coverage for both the products from the manufacturer and the work done by the installers to maximize protection of your investment. What “Lifetime” Actually Means When people think of a lifetime warranty, they often think it means forever, or for as long as the home is still standing. This is a mistake. In most cases, “lifetime” means the warranty lasts for as long as the original owner owns the home. "Lifetime" often applies only to the materials themselves, not to the labor required to repair or replace them. A lifetime warranty also does not promise the shingles themselves will last a lifetime. Coverage Often Changes Over Time Another important note is that many homeowners are unaware that coverage can change over time. Commonly, there are two phases: a non-prorated or full-coverage period and a prorated period. The non-prorated period, sometimes 5 or 10 years, provides 100% coverage until it kicks in, after which coverage typically decreases over time. Reading the Fine Print Matters The term “lifetime warranty” is often used as a marketing tool, but actual coverage depends on the details in the warranty document. Before signing anything, take the time to carefully review the warranty details to ensure there are no unpleasant surprises if things go wrong. What Voids a Roofing Warranty? Warranty exclusions are important to be aware of. Roofing warranties do not exist in a vacuum. They cover a specific roofing system, installed in a specific way, under specific conditions. Once that system is modified, penetrated, or disturbed by someone else, the manufacturer or roofing contractor may no longer be willing to stand behind the affected area. That does not usually mean your entire roof warranty disappears overnight. More often, it means coverage can be denied in the specific area where the roof was altered, damaged, or no longer meets the original installation requirements. This is why roofing warranty exclusions matter so much. They define the difference between a roof problem that is covered and one that becomes the homeowner’s responsibility. Here are some of the most common roofing warranty exclusions homeowners should understand. Damage from Other Contractors Solar installers: If solar panels are installed incorrectly by a third-party contractor, it could potentially void parts of your roofing warranty. Satellite dish installation: Mounting brackets require drilling, which can lead to leaks if not sealed correctly. Caption: Satellite dish mounted directly through an asphalt shingle roof. Installations like this often rely on exposed sealant rather than true flashing, which can increase the risk of leaks and complicate future warranty claims in the area where the dish was installed. This is why Sun Vault Roofing recommends removing roof-mounted satellite dishes if they are not in use. Other trades can cause the same problems: HVAC equipment: HVAC technicians may install rooftop units that sometimes move materials or create penetrations that damage shingles or flashing. Utility workers: Cable, internet, and electrical workers may access the roof and accidentally cause damage. Tree service workers: Trimming or removing trees can result in branches falling, causing damage. When it comes to solar, we recommend roof-integrated solar roofing systems installed at the same time as the roof, because one contractor then stands behind both the roof and the solar warranty. Otherwise, if you do choose to add panels to your roof at a later time, consider having your original roofing company handle the install. Improper Roof Modifications Any changes made to the roof after installation can void the warranty. Examples include: Adding skylights or vents without flashing Installing new penetrations Using incompatible materials for repairs Ventilation or Maintenance Problems Improper attic ventilation or lack of routine maintenance is a common reason roof warranties get denied. When attic airflow is poor, heat and moisture become trapped, excess heat can “cook” shingles from below, causing them to dry out, curl, or crack, and moisture buildup can lead to mold, wood rot, and deck warping, compromising the entire roofing system. Because of this, most manufacturers require ventilation systems to meet specific standards (often based on net free vent area ratios, such as 1:150 or 1:300 of the attic floor space). This typically means having a balanced system of intake vents and exhaust vents. If your home doesn’t meet these requirements, the manufacturer may argue that any shingle failure was caused by improper conditions and not a product defect. At the same time, maintenance also plays a role. Roof warranties generally expect homeowners to: Keep gutters clean and free-flowing Remove debris, such as leaves and branches Address moss or algae growth right away Fix minor issues before they become major problems If damage occurs and there’s evidence of neglect, such as clogged gutters causing water backup or visible mold due to poor ventilation, the warranty claim may be denied. Does a Transferable Roof Warranty Help When Selling Your Home? Planning to sell your home? A roofing warranty can be a selling point for buyers if it is transferable. A transferable warranty allows the next homeowner to continue benefiting from the remaining coverage, increasing buyer confidence. Buyers consistently value features that reduce future maintenance risk. Make sure to mention the transferable warranty in real estate listings and provide documentation to potential buyers when selling a home with a transferable warranty. How Wisconsin Weather Affects Your Roof Warranty Coverage Warranty exclusions tied to weather events are worth paying close attention to in Wisconsin. The 2026 Super El Niño impact on Wisconsin roofs could bring the kind of sustained moisture and freeze-thaw stress that accelerates shingle failure, and manufacturers will look closely at whether your ventilation and maintenance record holds up before honoring a claim. Another thing that's crucial when you're buying or selling? A real estate-specific roof inspection will help you avoid headaches when buying or selling a home. What Does the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty Cover? The Sun Vault One Vault Warranty is designed to provide homeowners with comprehensive, long-term protection by combining strong manufacturer backing with extended workmanship coverage. Sun Vault Roofing is a CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star contractor, and that credential is what lets us offer non-prorated coverage for 50 years. Many “lifetime” warranties prorate, so the payout shrinks year by year; this one does not. The Sun Vault One Vault Warranty includes: 50-year non-prorated CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star coverage for manufacturing defects (single-family homes) Labor coverage in the event of a manufacturing defect. Tear-off and disposal costs if shingles need to be replaced because of a defect. A 20-year workmanship warranty from Sun Vault Roofing for installation-related issues (most contractor workmanship warranties run one to two years) Fully transferable coverage for 15 years. Backup coverage special note: Thanks to our superior credentials with CertainTeed, CertainTeed will honor our workmanship warranty for up to 15 years, even if Sun Vault Roofing is no longer in business. From our Verona office, we install the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty on roofs across Madison and Southern Wisconsin. What Warranty Covers Solar Shingles? In addition to the roofing warranty described above, Sun Vault Roofing customers who choose an integrated solar shingle roof also receive a warranty for the solar components. Coverage terms are listed by component, so check which part carries which term. The CertainTeed Solstice solar shingle warranty covers: Manufacturing defects and installation: 25 years Power output: 25 years, about 85% minimum by year 25 Wind resistance: 110 mph, 10 years Certain components: 10 years The remedy is repair, replacement, or a prorated refund. Workmanship issues in the first 2 years are the installer’s responsibility. The warranty is transferable once within 10 years. Do Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles Affect Your Warranty in Wisconsin? The shingle grade you choose changes how well the roof handles hail, not the structure of the manufacturer warranty. Class 4 shingles can also qualify for insurance discounts, so Wisconsin homeowners weighing an upgrade should read up on Class 4 impact-resistant shingles before committing to a product line. Do Landmark, Landmark PRO, and NorthGate ClimateFlex Have Different Warranties? That said, not all CertainTeed shingle grades are as different as the marketing suggests. Landmark, Landmark PRO, and NorthGate ClimateFlex carry the same core warranty structure. The primary difference between them is the color selection, length of the StreakFighter algae-resistance period, and the heft and impact resistance of the material. Hail damage is generally an insurance claim, not a manufacturer warranty claim. If you're weighing which grade makes sense for your home, the decision comes down to a few practical factors covered in our guide to choosing asphalt shingle grades in Wisconsin. Does a Full Roofing System Affect Your Warranty? Installing the roof and solar together puts one contractor behind both warranties. Installing a complete and compatible system with Sun Vault Roofing will qualify you for full warranty protection. Sun Vault Roofing uses properly matched components, like shingles, underlayment, and accessories designed to work together, so the system performs better and has fewer failure points. How to Read a Roofing Warranty Before You Sign Understanding how to read a roofing warranty is a critical step to take before investing in a new roof. Remember, not all warranties offer the same level of protection, and the finer details matter more than what the marketing flyer says. Before signing a contract, make sure you: Understand the difference between manufacturer and workmanship warranties Read the fine print Pay attention to exclusions and transferability rules Confirm that the complete roofing system installation qualifies for full coverage Why Choose Sun Vault Roofing for Warranty Protection? When it is time, your roof replacement shouldn’t be a gamble. Homeowners trust Sun Vault Roofing and the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty to provide the protection they need to feel confident about their investment. Warranty protection is only as strong as the contractor standing behind it. Sun Vault Roofing is a CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star contractor and a 2026 BBB Spark Award winner. When the time is right, schedule a free inspection with Sun Vault Roofing today: Wisconsin’s certified, transparent, and local roofing and solar experts. Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing Warranties What is the difference between a manufacturer's warranty and a workmanship warranty? A manufacturer's warranty covers defects in the roofing materials, such as shingles that fail because of a production error. A workmanship warranty comes from the roofing contractor and covers installation mistakes. You need both, because each covers a failure the other does not. Does a lifetime roofing warranty cover my roof forever? No. A lifetime roofing warranty lasts for as long as you own the home, not for the life of the roof or the house. It often covers materials only, not labor, and many lifetime warranties become prorated after a set number of years, so the payout shrinks. What can void a roofing warranty? Work by other trades is the most common cause: solar installers, satellite dish crews, and HVAC technicians. New penetrations without flashing, incompatible repair materials, poor attic ventilation, and neglected maintenance such as clogged gutters or moss can also get a claim denied. Review the exclusions before anyone works on your roof. Is a roofing warranty transferable when I sell my home? Only if the warranty says so, and the terms vary, so confirm them before you list. The CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star coverage in the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty is fully transferable for 15 years, which gives a buyer documented coverage. What does a non-prorated roofing warranty mean? Non-prorated means the coverage does not shrink year by year. The Sun Vault One Vault Warranty includes 50 years of non-prorated CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star coverage on single-family homes, covering materials, labor, tear-off, and disposal for manufacturing defects, plus a 20-year workmanship warranty from Sun Vault Roofing.

Which Solar Shingle Brands Can You Buy in Wisconsin in 2026? Updated October 2026. Of the solar shingle brands, only CertainTeed's is installed in Wisconsin in 2026: Solstice is available now through CertainTeed-credentialed roofing contractors, including Sun Vault Roofing. CertainTeed's newer Landmark PWR is reported to become officially available November 1, 2026. Tesla has reportedly stopped selling its Solar Roof, GAF has told us it is not currently offering its solar shingle in Wisconsin, and Kaneka's is not available for U.S. residential installs. "Solar shingle" is a category, not one product, and the products inside it differ in materials, wiring, and who can install and service them. In Wisconsin, with heavy snow, freeze-thaw cycles and hail, those differences matter more than the headline watts. For the Tesla story and what it means for homeowners, see Tesla Solar Roof discontinued: what it means for solar shingles in Wisconsin. Key Takeaways: Solar Shingle Brands Available in Wisconsin in 2026 Availability decides this comparison. As of October 2026, CertainTeed's Solstice is the solar shingle installed here, with Landmark PWR reported to follow November 1. Tesla reportedly stopped supplying Solar Roof tiles in August 2026, GAF has told us it is not offering its solar shingle in Wisconsin, and Kaneka's is not available for U.S. residential installs. Solstice works with CertainTeed's asphalt shingles around the array. A roofing crew installs the shingles and a licensed electrician makes the electrical connections, the same electrician role a rack system needs. Landmark PWR is a bigger shingle, not a denser one. It is rated 85 watts versus 70, but power per square foot of shingle is about the same, roughly 16 watts. Wisconsin weather matters as much as watts. Ask how a product was hail-tested and what the plan is for snow sliding off the array. What Is the Difference Between Asphalt Shingles and Solar Shingles? A standard asphalt shingle has one job: shed water and protect the roof deck. A solar shingle does that same job and also generates electricity, with photovoltaic cells (the parts that turn sunlight into power) built into the shingle instead of mounted above it on a rack. Asphalt shingles cost less, install faster, and almost any crew can repair them. Solar shingles cost more upfront and are installed by a roofing crew trained on the product, with an electrician making the connections. In return, they remove the look of rack-mounted panels and turn the roof surface into a power source. Most solar shingle roofs, including Solstice, still use ordinary asphalt shingles on the parts of the roof without solar, so the two products share one roof. The best time to choose a solar shingle roof is when you are building new or replacing the roof anyway, because the solar layer goes in as part of the roof. CertainTeed's guide says the product is for new construction or re-roofing, not for going over an existing roof. Solar Shingles vs. Asphalt Roofing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=055Um53JtqQ Which Solar Shingle Brands Are Available in Wisconsin? Quick Comparison Product Power per shingle Hail rating (test used) Available in Wisconsin (October 2026) CertainTeed Solstice 70 W Class 3 (ice-ball test, FM 4473) Yes. Installed by CertainTeed-credentialed contractors, including Sun Vault Roofing CertainTeed Landmark PWR 85 W Class 3 (ice-ball test, FM 4473) Officially available November 1, 2026, per Solar Power World. Sun Vault Roofing plans to begin installing it in spring 2027 if it is shipping by then GAF Timberline Solar ES 2 57 W (GAF's published rating) Class 4 (steel-ball test, UL 2218), for qualifying packages only GAF has told us it is not currently offering it in Wisconsin Tesla Solar Roof 72 W per tile (Tesla's published rating) Class 4 (steel-ball test, UL 2218), per Tesla Discontinued (reported August 2026) Kaneka Not published for the U.S. market Not established for the U.S. market Not available for U.S. residential installs FM 4473 and UL 2218 are different hail tests, so the classes are a guide, not a like-for-like ladder. GAF's figures come from GAF's product page and Tesla's from its construction specification. How Do the Major Solar Shingle Brands Compare? CertainTeed Solstice Solstice shingles go down in courses on a standard roofing deck, the same way a roofing crew lays asphalt shingles. CertainTeed's Solstice is built to look and install like an asphalt shingle. The solar shingles sit in the same field as the asphalt shingles around them, and CertainTeed says any of its asphalt shingle lines can be used around a Solstice array. Front/top (right) and back/bottom (left) of a Certainteed solstice solar shingle. The top of the shingle contains the photovoltaic arrays while the bottom sits above the plywood decking and underlayment and protects the wires and creates space for air circulation It goes on the roof deck with standard deck screws, with clips connecting adjoining courses, so a roofing crew already knows the installation logic. CertainTeed's datasheet lists the 110 mph wind test class and a Florida Building Code hurricane-zone product approval. For hail it holds a Class 3 rating under FM 4473, an ice-ball test, on a scale where 4 is highest. No rating guarantees a roof against a direct hit. CertainTeed backs it with a 25-year limited power warranty and a 25-year limited workmanship warranty. Solstice won a Best of IBS Award for Best Energy Efficient Product at the 2024 International Builders' Show. CertainTeed Landmark PWR CertainTeed's solar shingle line began with Apollo II, a first-generation product that is no longer installed. Solstice followed, and Landmark PWR is the newest generation. CertainTeed announced it in late September 2026, and Solar Power World reports it becomes officially available November 1, 2026. CertainTeed Landmark PWR on a demonstration roof. Photo: CertainTeed. What changes from Solstice: More power per shingle. 85 watts versus 70. It is also a bigger shingle, so power per square foot of shingle is about the same, roughly 16 watts by our math from the datasheets. Individual shingles can be replaced. We have seen video of a Landmark PWR shingle being popped out and replaced on its own. It is like replacing a panel but easier: the shingles are smaller, there is no racking to unfasten, and you can walk on the shingles around it. Works with module-level electronics. Landmark PWR now works with module-level electronics, small devices that manage each shingle individually. A wind warranty. A 10-year, 110 mph limited wind warranty, alongside 25-year limited power and workmanship warranties. A frameless look. There is no visible frame around each shingle. Landmark PWR is rated for roofs with a pitch of 4/12 or steeper (4 inches of rise per 12 inches of run). Solstice's literature allows 2/12, but we would never put it on a 2/12 roof and CertainTeed has told us they prefer to keep it at 4/12 or above, which is why Landmark PWR carries that minimum. In practice that is not a difference. Landmark PWR is heavier per square foot, about 4 pounds versus 2.3 by our math from the datasheets. We have not installed one yet. We have weekly calls with CertainTeed, have discussed Landmark PWR with them at length for months, and have seen it installed on video, so our labor numbers are projections, but informed ones. We plan to begin installing Landmark PWR in spring 2027 if it is shipping by then. CertainTeed's marketing calls it cost-comparable to a new roof with rack-mounted panels. We do not expect it to reach parity with rack-mounted panels, but we do expect it to be closer than Solstice, and a bit cheaper. Once it is available we expect to install Landmark PWR instead of Solstice unless Solstice pricing drops. We will update this page once we have installed and priced one. Tesla Solar Roof Tesla's Solar Roof used glass tiles, some of them active. Tesla solar tile being showcased at the International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas, January 2026 Tesla reportedly stopped selling it in August 2026. Its web page now redirects to its solar panels page, and we found no formal announcement from Tesla. Electrek reported on August 20, 2026 that Tesla told its certified installers the tiles can no longer be ordered, and that one source said Tesla concluded the product was not financially viable. Electrek's September 1 follow-up reports that Tesla says it will honor existing warranties and continue to provide replacement parts, while installers doubt that holds for the 25-year life of the roofs. If you own one, ask Tesla Energy in writing how long replacement parts will be available. Sun Vault Roofing has no first-hand experience installing Tesla's Solar Roof. For what the exit means for Wisconsin homeowners, read our Tesla Solar Roof discontinued article. GAF Timberline Solar GAF's Timberline Solar ES 2 is GAF Energy's solar shingle. It is a nailable shingle that pairs with GAF's own Timberline asphalt shingle line and is installed by GAF-certified contractors. Reddit: u/Coolbreeze1989: GAF's Timberline Solar ES 2 Shingles installed on a new home in Texas GAF has told us it is not currently offering its solar shingle in Wisconsin. Sun Vault Roofing has no first-hand experience installing GAF's product, and what we know of it comes from GAF and other industry sources. On impact, GAF's qualifying packages are rated Class 4 under UL 2218, a steel-ball test, while Solstice is rated Class 3 under FM 4473. Those are different tests, so treat the numbers as a guide, not a one-class gap. With GAF, coverage for the inverter and electronics is a paid add-on. Kaneka Kaneka is a Japanese manufacturer of roof-integrated photovoltaic tiles. Its product is not available for U.S. residential installs, so it is not a practical option for a Wisconsin roof today. It is a name worth knowing as the market develops. Kaneka solar shingles being showcased at the International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas, January 2026 How Are Solar Shingles Made and Installed? CertainTeed's Solstice is a glass-topped shingle in a resin frame that a roofing crew installs with deck screws and clips. Landmark PWR is frameless in appearance. A Solstice shingle has a glass top set in a resin frame. Feature CertainTeed Solstice CertainTeed Landmark PWR Surface Glass top in a durable resin frame Glass and laminate, frameless appearance Roof around the array CertainTeed asphalt shingles CertainTeed asphalt shingles Mounting Deck screws into the sheathing, wind clips between courses Not stated on the datasheet we reviewed Minimum roof pitch 4/12 or steeper in practice (the literature allows 2/12) 4/12 Weight per square foot 2.3 lb About 4 lb (our math from the datasheet) Hail rating Class 3 (ice-ball test, FM 4473) Class 3 (ice-ball test, FM 4473) Wind rating Tested to 110 mph Tested to 110 mph, with a 10-year limited wind warranty Battery storage Can be added; compatibility depends on the inverter your electrician specifies Same How Much Power Does a Solar Shingle Make per Square Foot? Product Rated power Exposed area Power per square foot Solstice shingle 70 W 4.35 sq ft About 16.1 W Landmark PWR shingle 85 W 5.35 sq ft About 15.9 W Full-size residential panel 400-430 W About 20.8 sq ft About 19 to 21 W The new shingle is bigger, not denser. Per square foot of shingle, solar shingles make less than a full-size panel, so for the same system size they need roughly 1.2 to 1.3 times the roof area. Panels cover only part of a roof as well, because of setbacks, vents and roof planes. Our setbacks are smaller for Solstice: 1.3 feet at eaves, 1 foot at hips, rakes and valleys, and 1.5 feet at ridges and obstructions, against 1.5 feet all around for panels, so a shingle array can sometimes cover more of a roof. Setbacks also leave room for firefighter access, and you can walk across solar shingles and drag a hose over them, which you cannot do on panels. A solar shingle is also the roof around it, so one product does two jobs. The comparison that matters is a roof plus panels, not panels alone. How Much Do Solar Shingles Cost per Watt? For the solar portion of a Solstice project in 2026, Sun Vault Roofing's price runs about $3.50 to $4.50 per watt. We think of a solar roof as two parts: what a conventional asphalt replacement would cost, plus the extra cost of using solar shingles instead of asphalt where the solar goes. That second part is the $3.50 to $4.50, and it sits on top of the roof, because a new roof is a prerequisite for solar shingles. The low end is for very large systems close to 20 kW, the cap for the utility's simplest connection category (Category 1); typical systems sit around $4 to $4.50. For how we calculate that figure and how it compares with national rack-mounted panel prices, see Tesla Solar Roof discontinued: what it means for solar shingles in Wisconsin. We have not installed Landmark PWR yet, so we have no price for it. Who Installs a Solar Shingle Roof, a Roofer or an Electrician? Both, and each does their own job. A roofing crew installs the shingles. A licensed electrician makes the connections from the attic to the inverter, the box that converts the array's power for household use, and handles inspection and utility interconnection. A rack-mounted system needs the same electrician role. "A roofing crew can learn to install solar shingles quickly, because the method is the same as an asphalt shingle roof," says Mike Mannion, co-owner of Sun Vault Roofing. "The differences are the shingle-to-shingle electrical connections, and using screws instead of a nail gun." One difference is where the wiring runs. Inside a building, solar DC wiring has to run in metal conduit or metal-clad cable (cable with a built-in metal jacket). Outside, it can run as exposed sunlight-rated solar wire or in any conduit type. Rack-mounted systems in Wisconsin are usually run on the exterior of the house, because wiring through the attic needs an electrician working in the attic, which costs more. A shingle system drops its wiring into the attic after the last shingle, so the run inside is metal and the attic work adds labor and material. Solstice also includes a rapid shutdown device, a firefighter safety feature that reduces voltage on the roof when activated. It sits near where the wiring enters the attic. Which Solar Shingle Is Best for Wisconsin Homeowners? A finished Solstice roof in Verona; the solar shingles sit in the same plane as the asphalt shingles around them. CertainTeed Solstice is the pragmatic choice in Wisconsin right now. Tesla's Solar Roof is no longer an option, and GAF's solar shingle is not offered here. So for a Wisconsin roof, the practical comparison is a solar shingle roof against a new roof with rack-mounted panels, and between CertainTeed's Solstice today and Landmark PWR as it reaches the market. The best solar shingle is not the one with the flashiest brand or the highest lab rating. It is the one you can get installed, serviced, warrantied and integrated into a roof built for snow, hail, wind and freeze-thaw cycles. Landmark PWR is the next generation, and Solstice remains a sound choice today. Solstice may not win every spec-sheet category, but it wins the practical one: it is the solar shingle system Wisconsin homeowners can install, maintain and own with local support. How Do Solar Shingles Handle Snow, Ice, Heat and Wind in Wisconsin? Snow Both things are true. The glass surface sheds snow readily, and the generating shingles' warmth helps melt it. We recommend snow guards where snow is a concern, because snow can slide off the array easily, and CertainTeed's installation guide says the same. Some customers choose snow guards or heat tape below the array when it sits above a walkway or entry. If the array is above a part of the yard nobody uses, it does not matter. Our winter solar shingle guide goes deeper. Ice dams A solar shingle roof does not cause or cure ice dams. Those come from attic heat loss and ventilation, which CertainTeed's installation guide says to resolve before installation. Heat Integrated shingles have little air behind them, so they run hotter than rack-mounted panels, which costs some output. Wind Solstice is tested to 110 mph winds. Wisconsin storms can still produce straight-line winds that damage any roof, solar or not. Can You Repair a Solar Shingle, and Does It Add Roof Penetrations? Solar and asphalt shingles share one roof surface, with no rails or racking above it. Repairs With Solstice, repairing one shingle can require removing the shingles upstream of it in its string (a run of shingles wired together in a line), and strings often run 50 or more shingles. Warranty, insurance or the installer's workmanship coverage pays for the labor depending on the cause, but it is still a headache. CertainTeed has told us roughly 0.02% of Solstice shingles have had issues, so in practice it is rare. Landmark PWR is designed so an individual shingle can be popped out and replaced, like a panel but easier: the shingle is smaller, there is no racking to unfasten, and you can walk on the surrounding shingles. Leak points Fasteners covered by the next course of shingles are not exposed penetrations, the same as nails on any asphalt roof. A rack system's attachments are exposed penetrations through the roof surface that need flashing and sealant. A Solstice roof has no exposed rack attachments through the roof surface. The wiring still passes through the roof deck at one opening sealed with flashing. The result is one product system installed and waterproofed by a roofing crew, with one party to call if there is a leak. Where Does Sun Vault Roofing Install Solar Shingles? We install in Madison, Beloit, Janesville and across southern Wisconsin. Recent Solstice projects include 12.18 kW in Verona, 8.19 kW in Delavan, and 18.55 kW in Grafton. You can read about our first one in Sun Vault Roofing installs Wisconsin's first solar shingle roof. The array ties into the surrounding asphalt shingles at the edges. What Warranty Comes with a Solar Shingle Roof? CertainTeed's Solstice and Landmark PWR carry a 25-year limited power warranty and a 25-year limited workmanship warranty, and Landmark PWR adds a 10-year, 110 mph limited wind warranty. When Sun Vault Roofing finishes a Solstice project, you get CertainTeed's standard SureStart roofing warranty terms and the solar warranty terms together, as one project with one set of terms. Our Sun Vault One Vault Warranty is the anchor for that coverage. See the warranty documents for terms. How Do I Choose a Solar Shingle in Wisconsin? A solar shingle is worth serious consideration when: It can be installed and serviced here by credentialed local contractors. It works with the asphalt shingles around the array. It was tested for hail, wind and snow, and you know which test. You know what the warranty covers, in writing. Wondering whether a solar shingle roof, a roof with rack-mounted panels, or waiting for Landmark PWR makes sense for your home? Request an inspection and we will walk through what fits your roof before you commit to a full replacement. We also offer financing options and a free online estimate. You can see solar shingle products in person at our Verona office, 115 Enterprise Dr, Verona, WI 53593. More on solar roofing and roof planning Solar roofing from Sun Vault Roofing Rack-mounted solar panels from Sun Vault Roofing How to read a roofing warranty Top roofing materials for Wisconsin homes Sun Vault Roofing's new Verona office Solar Shingle Questions Wisconsin Homeowners Ask Can I still buy a Tesla Solar Roof? No. Tesla reportedly stopped supplying Solar Roof tiles in August 2026. If you already have one, Tesla Energy is the contact for warranty and parts questions. More in our Tesla Solar Roof discontinued article. What is CertainTeed Landmark PWR and how is it different from Solstice? It is CertainTeed's newest solar shingle: 85 watts instead of 70, designed so an individual shingle can be replaced, and compatible with module-level electronics. It is also a bigger shingle, so power per square foot is about the same. Can I mix solar shingles with my existing asphalt shingles? Not over an existing roof. These products are for new construction or re-roofing, so the asphalt shingles around the array are new ones. CertainTeed says any line of its asphalt shingles can be used with Solstice. For other brands, ask the manufacturer. How does snow affect solar shingle performance? All solar shingle systems produce little while covered in snow. The glass surface sheds snow readily, and the generating shingles' warmth helps melt it. We recommend snow guards where snow is a concern, as does CertainTeed's installation guide, and some customers add snow guards or heat tape below the array above a walkway or entry. Do solar shingles carry a hail impact rating? Yes, but not all use the same test. CertainTeed Solstice and Landmark PWR are rated Class 3 under FM 4473, an ice-ball test. GAF's qualifying packages are rated Class 4 under UL 2218, a steel-ball test. Because the tests differ, the classes are not a strict one-to-one comparison. Read more about what a Class 4 rating means for a Wisconsin roof. Are solar shingles less powerful than solar panels? Per square foot, yes, somewhat: about 16 watts for CertainTeed's shingles versus roughly 19 to 21 for a full-size panel. But panels cover only part of a roof too, and a shingle is also the roof around it. Who installs solar shingles, a roofer or an electrician? A roofing crew installs the shingles, and a licensed electrician makes the connections from the attic to the inverter and handles inspection and utility interconnection. Solar wiring that enters a house has to run in metal conduit or metal-clad cable. Is a solar shingle roof worth it compared to rack-mounted solar panels? It depends on your priorities. National residential rack-mounted panel installs run about $2.60 to $3.50 per watt before incentives, per EnergySage and Solar.com's report of the SEIA and Wood Mackenzie benchmark. Solar shingles cost more per watt than that, though under twice as much for the solar portion. They integrate into the roofline and double as the roofing material. They suit homeowners who are building new or replacing the roof anyway. For a deeper side-by-side, see solar shingles vs. traditional solar panels. Are there rebates or tax credits for solar shingles in Wisconsin? As of October 2026, Focus on Energy lists a rebate of $600 per kW, up to $2,400, for single-family systems purchased and installed in 2026, with applications due within 60 days of installation and no later than January 31, 2027. Sun Vault Roofing files the application for our customers. Ask us whether a solar shingle system qualifies, and confirm current terms at focusonenergy.com/solar. The federal residential solar tax credit ended for systems installed after December 31, 2025, so it no longer applies to solar shingles or rack-mounted panels.

Is the Tesla Solar Roof discontinued, and what happens to existing owners? Tesla Solar Roof discontinued in August 2026, according to Electrek. Electrek reported on August 20 that Tesla told its installers tiles are no longer available to order, and Tesla's Solar Roof page now redirects to its solar panels page. We found no formal Tesla announcement. In Wisconsin, the integrated option you can actually buy is CertainTeed's solar shingle: Solstice now, and Landmark PWR, which Solar Power World reports becomes officially available November 1, 2026. Solar shingles make about 16 watts per square foot of shingle. In 2026 the solar portion of a Solstice project has run about $3.50 to $4.50 per watt, on top of the cost of a conventional asphalt roof replacement. Which solar shingles can you still buy in Wisconsin? Solstice is available now through CertainTeed-credentialed roofing contractors, including Sun Vault Roofing. Apollo II was CertainTeed's first-generation solar shingle and is no longer installed, and Landmark PWR is the newest generation. CertainTeed backs both current shingles with 25-year limited power and workmanship warranties. Two others come up: GAF Timberline Solar: GAF has told us it is not currently offering its solar shingle in Wisconsin. Kaneka: not available for U.S. residential installs. Sun Vault Roofing has no first-hand experience installing Tesla or GAF products. For every brand side by side, see Solar Shingle Brands Compared. Solstice shingles go down in courses on a standard roofing deck, the same way a roofing crew lays asphalt shingles. How much power does a solar shingle make per square foot? About 16 watts per square foot of shingle, compared with about 19 to 21 for a full-size panel. That is our math from CertainTeed's datasheets, using exposed shingle area, set against REC's datasheet for a full-size panel including its frame. For the same kilowatts, a shingle array needs roughly 1.2 to 1.3 times the roof area. The full table is in Solar Shingle Brands Compared. A Solstice shingle has a glass top set in a resin frame. How much do solar shingles cost per watt compared with panels? We think of a solar roof as two parts: what a conventional asphalt replacement would cost, plus the extra cost of using solar shingles instead of asphalt where the solar goes. For 2026 projects we price that second part at $3.50 to $4.50 per watt. It sits on top of the roof, because a new roof is a prerequisite for solar shingles. How we get the number: the price of the solar roof, minus the price of the same roof in asphalt shingles, divided by DC watts, with batteries and non-roof items stripped out. It covers 2026 projects only. The low end: very large systems close to 20 kW, the cap for the utility's simplest connection category (Category 1). Our 18.55 kW Grafton installation sits near that limit. Typical systems: around $4 to $4.50 per watt. Panels: national residential installs of rack-mounted panels run about $2.60 to $3.50 per watt before incentives. EnergySage puts its marketplace average near $2.60, SEIA and Wood Mackenzie's benchmark is $3.36 as reported by Solar.com, and Intelligent Living (see below) cites $2.80 to $3.50. So for the solar portion of the project, solar shingles cost under twice as much per watt as rack-mounted panels. Do solar shingles cover less of the roof than panels do? Not in any way that is unique to shingles. Setbacks, vents and roof planes limit where any solar goes. Our setbacks are smaller for Solstice: 1.3 feet at eaves, 1 foot at hips, rakes and valleys, and 1.5 feet at ridges and obstructions, against 1.5 feet all around for panels, so a shingle array can sometimes cover more of a roof. Setbacks also leave room for firefighter access, and you can walk across solar shingles and drag a hose over them, which you cannot do on panels. A solar shingle is also the roof around it, so you buy one product that does two jobs. Shingles make less power per square foot than a full-size panel. The comparison that matters is roof plus panels, not panels alone. Recent Solstice systems of ours include 8.19 kW in Delavan, 11.62 kW in Madison, 12.18 kW in Verona and 18.55 kW in Grafton. Our earlier projects in Sheboygan and Oconomowoc are in Sun Vault Roofing installs Wisconsin's first solar shingle roof. A finished Solstice roof in Verona; the solar shingles sit in the same plane as the asphalt shingles around them. Who installs solar shingles: a roofer or an electrician? Both. A roofing crew installs the shingles. "A roofing crew can learn to install solar shingles quickly, because the method is the same as an asphalt shingle roof," says Mike Mannion, co-owner of Sun Vault Roofing. "The main differences are the shingle-to-shingle electrical connections, and using screws instead of a nail gun, which are simple to teach." A licensed electrician makes the connections from the attic to the inverter and handles inspection and utility interconnection, the same electrician role a rack-mounted system needs. One wiring detail matters. Inside a building, solar DC wiring must run in metal conduit or metal-clad cable (cable with a built-in metal jacket). Outside, it can run as exposed sunlight-rated PV wire or in any conduit type. Rack-mounted systems in Wisconsin are wired on the exterior of the house, since attic wiring needs an electrician working in the attic, which costs more. A shingle system drops its wiring into the attic, so that run is metal. That adds attic labor and metal conduit or cable. Solstice includes a rapid shutdown device, a firefighter safety feature that reduces voltage on the roof when activated. It sits near where the wiring enters the attic. Courses of solar shingles lap over each other and tie into the asphalt roof around a chimney. Does a solar shingle roof need holes through the roof? Fasteners covered by the next course are not exposed, the same as nails on any asphalt roof. A rack system's attachments are exposed and need flashing and sealant, and a shingle roof has no exposed rack attachments through the roof surface. The wiring still passes through the roof deck at one opening sealed with flashing. You get one waterproofed product system and one party to call for a leak. What does Intelligent Living's article get right, and where do we differ? Aaron Jackson's October 12 article in Intelligent Living is a fair overview, and we agree with much of it. Where we agree Tesla quit, after roughly 3,000 U.S. installs. Solar shingles make about 16 watts per square foot, versus roughly 20 for panels. Our datasheet math is close: about 16 per square foot of exposed shingle and 19 to 21 for a full-size panel. The federal residential solar tax credit (called 25D) ended for systems installed after December 31, 2025, for shingles and panels alike. Tightly mounted modules run hotter, which costs some output. Where we read it differently Cost per watt. The article puts shingles at $6.00 to $8.50 per "effective watt" without defining the term. Its figure for a 2,500 square foot roof, $52,500 to $62,500, is a whole-project price that includes the roof, and it compares that with about $31,000 for an asphalt re-roof plus an 8 kW panel array. If the shingle system were also 8 kW, that would be about $6.50 to $7.80 per watt of total project. Taking out the ordinary asphalt roof, our solar portion is the $3.50 to $4.50 above. Three trades. The article counts a roofer, a solar installer and an electrician. With CertainTeed's shingle it is a roofing crew and a licensed electrician, and a rack system needs the electrician too. Apollo II. The article lists it among systems sold in 2026. For CertainTeed it was the first generation and is no longer installed. Repairs. The article calls repair harder. With Solstice it can be. Can you repair or replace one solar shingle? With Solstice, repairing one shingle can require removing the shingles upstream of it in its string (a run of shingles wired together in a line), and strings often run 50 or more shingles. Warranty, insurance or the installer's workmanship coverage pays the labor depending on cause. CertainTeed has told us roughly 0.02% of Solstice shingles have had issues, so in practice it is rare. Landmark PWR is designed so an individual shingle can be popped out and replaced, by a trained installer. That is like replacing a panel, but easier, with no racking to unfasten. What should you expect from Landmark PWR? Landmark PWR is new, so ask any installer how many they have put in. It is rated for roofs with a pitch of 4/12 or steeper (4 inches of rise per 12 inches of run). Solstice's literature allows 2/12, but we would never put it on a 2/12 roof and CertainTeed prefers 4/12 or above, so in practice that is not a difference. CertainTeed markets Landmark PWR as cost-comparable to a new roof with rack-mounted panels. We do not expect it to reach parity with rack-mounted panels, but we do expect it to be closer than Solstice and a bit cheaper; our full read is in Solar Shingle Brands Compared. We have not installed one yet, but we have weekly calls with CertainTeed, have discussed it with them at length for months, and have seen it installed on video, so our labor numbers are informed projections. We plan to begin installing it in spring 2027 if it is shipping by then. CertainTeed Landmark PWR on a demonstration roof. Photo: CertainTeed. When does a solar shingle roof make the most sense? When you are building new or the roof is due anyway. The product is for new construction or re-roofing, not for going over an existing roof. The federal residential solar tax credit has ended, so new construction gets no credit advantage in 2026. The case for solar shingles is cost and integration, not credits. Ask us whether Focus on Energy's rebate treats shingle systems and new construction the same as rack-mounted panels. Our 2026 incentives post has the details. The array ties into the surrounding asphalt shingles at the edges. Solar shingle questions Wisconsin homeowners ask Is the Tesla Solar Roof discontinued? Reportedly yes. Electrek reported on August 20, 2026 that Tesla told its installers tiles are no longer available to order. We found no formal Tesla announcement. Existing roofs are reportedly still under warranty, per Electrek's September 1 follow-up. Can I still buy solar shingles in Wisconsin? Yes. CertainTeed's Solstice is available through credentialed roofing contractors, including Sun Vault Roofing. Landmark PWR is reported to become available November 1, 2026. Do I need a roofer or an electrician for solar shingles? Both. A roofing crew installs the shingles, and a licensed electrician makes the attic-to-inverter connections and handles inspection and utility interconnection. Are there tax credits or rebates for solar shingles in Wisconsin? The federal residential solar tax credit ended for systems installed after December 31, 2025. Focus on Energy's 2026 rebate for rack-mounted panels is $600 per kW up to $2,400, with applications due within 60 days of installation and by January 31, 2027. We are not certain it treats solar shingle and new-construction systems the same way, so ask us before you count on it. Can I put solar shingles on my existing roof? Not over it. Solar shingles replace the roofing, so they are for new construction or re-roofing, per CertainTeed's installation guide. Want to know whether a solar shingle roof fits your home? Request an inspection and we will walk through what fits your roof before you commit to a full replacement. You can also see solar shingle products at our Verona office, 115 Enterprise Dr, Verona, WI 53593.

Solar panels aren't your only option anymore. If you’re considering solar for your home, you already know about conventional rooftop solar panels. But there’s another option quietly gaining momentum: solar shingles. Both solar shingles and conventional solar panels generate clean, renewable energy and save you money on electricity costs. But these products differ in appearance, installation methods, maintenance, durability, and cost. At Sun Vault Roofing, we offer both solutions and help homeowners throughout Wisconsin choose the right system for their home, budget, and goals. Short answer: choose solar shingles if you are replacing your roof anyway or want a low-profile look that fits an HOA or historic district. Choose conventional solar panels if your roof has 20 or more years left and upfront cost matters most. A free assessment from Sun Vault Roofing tells you which fits your home. Solar shingles lie flat against the roof deck in place of asphalt shingles, rather than on racks above them. This integrated roof is in Cambridge, WI. What Are Solar Shingles? Solar shingles, also known as solar roofing tiles or simply “solar roofs”, combine the function of a solar panel with the look and performance of a standard roofing shingle. They install directly onto the roof deck and serve as both waterproof roofing material and energy generator. At Sun Vault Roofing, we install CertainTeed Solstice Shingles, one of the most advanced and well-respected integrated solar roofing solutions on the market. Solstice solar shingles are designed to integrate seamlessly into the look and function of an asphalt roof. They are lightweight, sleek, and do not require bulky metal racking systems. They were also recognized as the Best Energy Efficient product at the International Builders’ Show. Individual Solstice solar shingle modules are installed much like asphalt shingles. The installer starts with the bottom row, and each shingle is secured directly to the roof's plywood decking with 5 screws. The next course of shingles covers the screws. Each shingle contains 70 watts of photovoltaic power capacity. Tesla Solar Roof vs. solar shingles: what’s the difference? Many homeowners come to this article after searching for terms like “Tesla solar roof” or “Tesla solar tiles.” Those searches are usually about a broader idea: solar that’s built into the roof itself, rather than panels mounted on top. The Tesla Solar Roof is just one example of an integrated solar roofing system. It uses a combination of active solar tiles and visually similar non-producing tiles to create a uniform, glass-like roof surface that generates electricity while serving as the roof. CertainTeed Solstice solar shingles fall into the same category of integrated solar roofing, but use a different construction approach (see our full comparison of solar shingle brands in Wisconsin). Instead of covering the entire roof in glass tiles, Solstice solar shingles are installed only where energy production makes sense, and the rest of the roof is finished with asphalt shingles. This allows the roof to function like a conventional asphalt roof while producing solar power in key areas. Availability is also worth understanding. At this time, Tesla solar tiles have limited availability and, to our knowledge, have not been widely offered in Wisconsin in recent years. Integrated solar roofing options like CertainTeed Solstice are currently available through certified local roofing contractors, which makes installation, permitting, and long-term service more straightforward for Wisconsin homeowners. For the rest of this article, when we refer to solar shingles or solar roofing, we’re talking about the asphalt-integrated approach and how it compares to conventional rack-mounted solar panels. What are Conventional Solar Panels? Conventional solar panels are mounted on top of an existing roof using racking systems. While they are highly efficient and widely used, they do not replace your roofing material. Panels are often more visible and may not meet aesthetic guidelines set by HOAs, historical districts, or personal preference. Sun Vault Roofing also installs conventional rack-mounted solar panels for homeowners who desire solar, but aren’t yet in need of a new roof. See how solar roofing works. Conventional solar panels are secured to the roof with steel racks that raise them above the shingles. That lift makes the equipment more visible and can give squirrels and other critters a place to nest. What Are the Key Differences Between Solar Shingles and Solar Panels? Aesthetics: solar shingles vs. solar panels Solar Shingles: Integrated into the roof for a clean, low-profile appearance. Conventional Panels: Mounted on racks above your existing roof, more obvious/visible Solar shingles are ideal for homeowners who want a modern, subtle look, especially those in HOA communities, historical districts, or high-visibility areas. Homebuyers may also prefer the look of integrated, low-profile solar shingles. Two arrays of Solstice solar shingles on a lakefront home in Sheboygan, WI. Solar shingles are prized for their aesthetic superiority. This lakefront home in Sheboygan, WI has all the benefits of solar power without the bulky, industrial look of conventional solar panels. Installation Method: solar shingles vs. solar panels Solar Shingles: Installed as part of the roofing system, often during roof replacement or initial build. Conventional Panels: Mounted onto the existing roof with brackets and rails Because Solstice Shingles replace the need for a separate roofing material, they’re an excellent option when your roof is nearing end-of-life or when you are just beginning construction on your home. Sun Vault Roofing offers full roof replacement combined with solar installation in one streamlined process. Weight and Structural Considerations: solar shingles vs. solar panels Solar Shingles: Lightweight and suitable for almost all roof structures. Each shingle is smaller than a conventional panel, so they can also fit in tighter spaces, and are ideal for maximizing output on unusual roof shapes. Since they are so light, solar shingle installations often avoid the cost of a structural engineering assessment. Conventional Panels: Heavier and may not be suitable for older homes without structural upgrades. Large area/size can prohibit placement in certain roof areas. Since the combined weight of solar panels and steel racks can add up, conventional rooftop solar panel installations often require expensive structural engineering assessments. This makes shingles a better fit for older or lower-load roofs. Every roof still gets inspected first: we photograph the framing and decking, and a structural engineer runs load calculations when a project calls for it. Energy Output and Efficiency: solar shingles vs. solar panels Conventional Panels generally offer slightly higher efficiency (by about 2%) than shingles due to optimized airflow Solar Shingles have come a long way in the last 3-4 years and now offer nearly identical efficiency to panels. From a sustainability perspective, solar shingles are the superior choice because their material footprint is much smaller (one shingle material that services two functions compared to panels which require shingles + panels + steel racks). CertainTeed's newer Landmark PWR solar shingle released in October 2026 uses a higher-efficiency cell that sits closer to conventional panels, narrowing that gap further. A free assessment from Sun Vault Roofing will determine which system best meets your energy goals. Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability: solar shingles vs. solar panels Solar Panels are mechanically reliable, but one of the most common real-world causes of solar system issues is wildlife damage. Rack-mounted panels create a sheltered gap between the roof and the array, which can become an ideal nesting space for squirrels, birds, and other animals. Over time, exposed wiring and connectors are vulnerable to chewing, nesting debris, and moisture buildup. Solar shingles remove the nesting gap entirely. Because they install flush to the roof deck, there is no cavity for animals to get into and no exposed wiring beneath the array. That removes one of the most frequent maintenance and failure points we see in conventional rooftop solar. For homeowners who want the lowest-maintenance solar option over the long term, this is a meaningful advantage. Warranty and Accountability: solar shingles vs. solar panels With conventional solar panels, homeowners often end up with two separate systems installed by two separate contractors: a roofing contractor and a solar contractor. If a leak or issue occurs near the array, responsibility can become unclear. Homeowners may find themselves caught between installers, each pointing to the other as the source of the problem. Further, in some cases, roof warranties may be partially limited or excluded around solar panel penetrations, depending on the roofing manufacturer and installation details. Solar shingles simplify this. The roof and the solar are installed by one contractor, so one company is responsible for both performance and weather protection. With Sun Vault Roofing, that is covered by the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty. That means clearer accountability and a more straightforward warranty path. That means clearer accountability, fewer gray areas, and a more straightforward warranty path for homeowners who value long-term peace of mind. We’ve seen this play out more than once. In one case, a homeowner, Sarah, in Verona had a new roof installed, then added conventional solar panels a few years later. Everything worked fine for over a decade. Around year 12, slow leaks started appearing near the solar array. When she called her roofing contractor, they said the issue was caused by the solar mounting penetrations and declined warranty coverage. The solar company pointed back to the roof and the shingle manufacturer. With no single party taking responsibility, the homeowner ultimately paid out of pocket for repairs that fell into a gray area between systems. Why the number of roof penetrations matters when you add conventional solar panels. Cost and Long-Term Value: solar shingles vs. solar panels Solar Panels: Lower initial cost, especially if your existing roof is in good condition and less than 5 years old Solar Shingles: Slightly higher upfront cost due to enhanced aesthetics and cutting-edge tech, but they can be more economical over the long run, especially if you are replacing your roof anyway, because of resale value and longevity. In most cases, solar shingles have a return on investment that is just 1-2 years longer than conventional panels. Sun Vault Roofing helps homeowners compare both options. The 30% federal residential solar credit ended on December 31, 2025. The Focus on Energy rebate pays $600 per kW, up to $2,400, for single-family systems installed in 2026, and the application is due within 60 days of installation and no later than January 31, 2027. Sun Vault Roofing files it for our customers. Home Insurance: solar shingles vs. solar panels In practice, insurers tend to treat conventional rack-mounted solar panels and integrated solar roofs differently. Solar panels are typically insured as an add-on to the roof and may require endorsements or adjustments to coverage, depending on the carrier and location. Integrated solar roofs are usually insured as part of the roofing system itself. Because they replace traditional roofing materials and sit flush with the roof deck, they often avoid the underwriting concerns associated with racks, penetrations, and wind uplift. In some cases, homeowners installing a new integrated solar roof have even seen insurance premiums decrease due to the reduced risk of a brand-new roof. One Wisconsin homeowner we worked with recently reported a significant reduction in her home insurance premium after installing an integrated Sun Vault Roofing solar roof. In her case, a 39% decrease following the roof replacement. Insurance outcomes vary by carrier and home, but for many homeowners, integrated solar roofs can be a simpler and more insurance-friendly long-term solution than traditional panels. Permitting and Structural Review: solar shingles vs. solar panels Both solar shingles and conventional solar panels require permits. In most cases, that includes a municipal building or roofing permit, an electrical permit, and utility interconnection approval. Where the two systems often differ is structural review. Solar panels carry a lot of additional weight due to thick glass panels, steel racks, and rails. For this reason, many panel installations require a structural engineering assessment or a separate municipal solar permit to confirm the roof can support the added load of the system. Solar shingles, by contrast, replace traditional roofing materials. CertainTeed Solstice Shingles weigh about 2.3 lb per square foot, which is actually lighter than typical architectural asphalt shingles (roughly 2.5–2.7 lb per square foot). As a result, solar shingle installations are often exempt from additional structural calculations, depending on the jurisdiction and roof design. In our experience, municipalities rarely require the added time or expense of a structural assessment for solar shingles, which can simplify permitting, reduce soft costs, and make solar feasible on homes that may not support the added weight of panels and racks. Permitting requirements vary by municipality, but this weight difference is one reason solar shingles can be a cleaner, more straightforward upgrade when a roof replacement is already planned. Wind and Storm Resistance: solar shingles vs. solar panels Solar shingles are engineered as roofing products first, and energy systems second. Because they install flush to the roof deck, they experience far less wind uplift than rack-mounted panels. CertainTeed Solstice Shingles are rated for wind speeds up to 110 mph and are approved for use in Florida’s High-Velocity Hurricane Zone. They also carry a Class A fire rating when used with the right underlayment and are tested for impact resistance consistent with modern roofing standards. Conventional Solar Panels: Mounted on racks above your existing roof. While many systems are rated for high winds, they rely on attachment hardware and penetrations that are more vulnerable to wind uplift, vibration, and storm debris, especially if not perfectly installed. This makes shingles a better fit for roofs in windy or storm-prone areas. Do Solar Shingles Hold Up to Wisconsin Winters? Yes. Solstice solar shingles are installed as part of an asphalt roof with the same underlayment and ice-and-water protection as the rest of the roof, so snow and ice behave much as they do on any shingle roof. Ice dams are mainly caused by heat escaping from the attic, and a solar roof does not fix that. What flush shingles do avoid is the shaded, uneven melt patterns and snow-catching hardware that rack-mounted panels can add. Do Solar Shingles Increase Home Resale Value More Than Solar Panels? Both options add value to your home, and integrated solar roofs may add a little more. Zillow's solar resale research found homes with solar sold for 4.1% more on average. That is a national figure based largely on rack-mounted panels. A separate study found that premium solar options, like integrated solar roofs, added roughly another 3% on top of that. Solar shingles look like a high-end shingle roof instead of equipment mounted above it. A home that looks like it has a beautiful new roof appeals to a wider audience than one with a visible panel array, and with solar shingles the buyer gets the roof condition and the energy system in one warrantied package. In a market like Madison, where buyers value sustainability, that is a real selling point. Solar Shingles vs. Solar Panels in 60 Seconds Your roof can produce electricity. Not solar panels above your roof, the roof itself. What About Other Roofing Materials? If you're already planning a roof replacement, the solar decision doesn't happen in isolation. The roofing material itself matters too. Homeowners weighing their options often ask about metal roofing in Wisconsin and whether it makes sense alongside or instead of an integrated solar system. Our response? If you're going to pay 3x the cost of a normal roof, it should at least do something for you. Is Solar Roofing Catching On in Wisconsin? In Business Madison recently featured the work of Sun Vault Roofing in its coverage of why integrated solar roofing is gaining ground in Wisconsin, from fewer roof penetrations and a cleaner look to the economics of combining a roof replacement with solar in one project. See our work in the wild! In September 2025 we installed Wisconsin's first-ever full integrated solar shingle roof and our director of operations, Mike, was recognized by Clean Jobs Midwest for the achievement. Are Solar Shingles or Conventional Solar Panels Right for You? First step: learn if your home is a good fit for solar. And if it is, begin weighing your options. Choose solar shingles if: You’re already replacing your roof You want a sleek, modern look Your best sun-facing roof plane is on the front of your house You live in a neighborhood with aesthetic, historical, or HOA restrictions You live in a windy or storm-prone area Your home’s structure can’t support conventional panels You want the latest, cutting edge technology You desire the lowest-possible maintenance option Squirrel justice is a priority Choose conventional panels if: Your existing roof is in good condition with 20+ years of life remaining Cost is your primary concern You are not concerned about high winds or storms Your best sun-facing roof planes are not visible from the front of your house But sometimes the answer is that neither option is right for your home or your roof. This can be the case if you don’t get enough sun or don’t use enough electricity. But don’t worry: you still have plenty of alternatives to rooftop solar. Read our writeup about how to determine which solar alternatives can best achieve your goals. Options include utility programs, standalone battery systems, generators, and balcony or plug-in solar panels. Can Solar Shingles Get Approved in a Wisconsin Historic District? In 2025, we worked with a homeowner in Evansville whose property sits within a historic district. The district board rejected conventional rack-mounted solar panels outright. The hardware profile was too industrial and did not meet the district’s architectural standards. CertainTeed Solstice Shingles were a different story. Because Solstice shingles install flush with the roofline and are visually indistinguishable from a high-end asphalt roof, the historic district approved the installation. The homeowner got solar. The district got a roof that met its standards. That outcome isn't possible with rack-mounted panels. If your home is in a historic district or an HOA with strict appearance guidelines, solar shingles are often the only solar option that clears the review process. We have direct experience navigating those approvals in Wisconsin and can advise on what documentation and product specs the reviewing body will need. Do HOAs in Wisconsin Restrict Solar Panels? Wisconsin law prohibits HOAs from banning solar energy systems outright. That said, some associations still attempt to restrict where panels can be placed. Most commonly, they bar installations on street-facing roof planes. For homeowners in those situations, fighting the HOA is a winnable battle, but it takes stamina. Solar shingles offer a quieter path. CertainTeed Solstice Shingles install flush with the roofline and are visually indistinguishable from a premium asphalt roof. In practice, most HOA architectural review boards have approved them where rack-mounted panels were rejected. You get full solar production on the street-facing side of your home, a roof that looks exactly like a high-end shingle roof, and the quiet satisfaction of having technically complied with every rule your HOA thought would stop you. Why Work With Sun Vault Roofing? As a certified installer of CertainTeed solar solutions, Sun Vault Roofing offers trusted expertise in both conventional solar and integrated solar roofing systems. We work with each homeowner to evaluate energy usage, roof condition, design preferences, and budget, then build a custom solution that delivers long-term performance and value. 📞 Need a partner? Call us 608-608-1082 or Request a Free Solar Assessment to find out whether shingles or panels are the right solar solution for your home. Frequently Asked Questions What is the difference between solar shingles and solar panels? Solar shingles are the roof itself, while conventional solar panels are mounted on top of an existing roof. CertainTeed Solstice shingles replace asphalt shingles where they are installed and sit flush with the roof deck. Panels use racks, rails, and brackets that attach through the shingles. Are solar shingles a good option if I already need a new roof? Usually, yes. Solar shingles let you replace the roof and add solar in one project, while panels installed on an aging roof often have to be removed and reinstalled when the roof is replaced. If your roof is young and in good shape, conventional panels are usually the lower-cost route. Are solar shingles lower maintenance than rooftop solar panels? They can be. Solar shingles sit flush with the roof deck, so there is no gap beneath the array for squirrels and birds to nest or chew on wiring. They also skip the roof-mounted feet that conventional panels use, which are the most common source of roof leaks from solar. Do solar shingles weigh less than conventional solar panels? Yes. Solar shingles replace roofing material instead of adding a panel-and-rack system on top of the roof. CertainTeed Solstice shingles weigh about 2.3 pounds per square foot, similar to or slightly lighter than many architectural asphalt shingles, while panels add weight on top of a roof. That is why older homes and lower-load roofs are often a cleaner fit for solar shingles. Do solar shingles add more resale value than solar panels? Homes with solar sell for more on average, and solar shingles may add a little more because the system looks like a new roof. Zillow's solar resale research found a 4.1% premium nationally, and a separate study found premium solar options added roughly another 3%. What solar incentives are available in Wisconsin in 2026? The 30% federal residential solar credit ended on December 31, 2025. Focus on Energy pays $600 per kW, up to $2,400, for single-family systems installed in 2026, and the application is due within 60 days of installation and by January 31, 2027. Sun Vault Roofing files it for our customers.

Wisconsin weather is hard on a roof, from heavy winter snow to strong summer storms. Over time, that adds up to wear and tear. Many homeowners don’t realize there’s a problem until a leak appears, but by that point, damage may already be extensive. Being proactive and recognizing the early warning signs of roof damage can save you from costly repairs and unexpected headaches. Most roof damage shows up first as a ceiling stain, missing or curling shingles, a sagging section, or granules piling up in your gutters. If you spot any of these signs or aren’t sure, call us at 608-608-1082 for a free roof inspection. Worn or damaged shingles are among the first things we check during a free roof inspection. What Are the Early Roof Damage Signs to Watch For? The most common early signs of roof damage in Wisconsin are: Water stains on ceilings or walls Missing, curling, or cracked shingles Sagging roof sections Shingle granules collecting in your gutters Drafts or moisture in the attic Unexplained jumps in energy bills Abandoned satellite dishes or antennas Catching these early keeps a small repair from turning into a large one. What Do Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls Mean? One of the most obvious signs of a roofing issue is water stains on ceilings or interior walls. This usually means water is seeping through the roof, possibly due to: Damaged or missing shingles Cracked flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights Poor attic ventilation, causing moisture buildup Ignoring water stains can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and ruined insulation, all of which are expensive to fix. What Do Missing, Curling, or Cracked Shingles Mean? Shingles act as a protective barrier for your roof. When they start to crack, curl, or go missing, your home becomes vulnerable to leaks and further deterioration. Common causes include: Aging roof materials Storm damage from extreme weather like hail or strong winds Damage from ice damming Poor initial installation Regular inspections can help identify problem areas before water begins to penetrate your home. Is a Sagging Roof an Emergency? If your roof appears to be sagging, it could indicate structural weakness due to: Water saturation from leaks Excess weight from snow accumulation Deteriorated roof decking or support beams A sagging roof is a serious problem that should be addressed immediately to prevent collapse or further damage. Most Wisconsin homeowners do not think about their roof until water shows up inside. By then, the problem has usually been developing for months. These three checks take two minutes and require nothing more than walking around the outside of your house. Why Are There Shingle Granules in My Gutters? Asphalt shingles shed granules over time, and a little is normal, especially on a new roof. A steady, heavy amount in your gutters or at the downspout exits is a sign your shingles are deteriorating. Granule loss can lead to: Weakened UV protection, making your shingles more brittle A shorter roof lifespan Higher risk of leaks and internal water damage Your downspout exits are one of the easiest places to see how far along your roof is. As shingles age they shed granules, and those granules wash into your gutters and collect where the water leaves. Granules are rocks, and rocks are heavy, so the older your roof, the more of them pile up and the less water your gutters can carry. Some homeowners think they need to upsize to 6-inch gutters. Then we look, and their gutters are a third full of granules. What they actually need is a gutter cleaning and a roof replacement budget. This is most common on homes without trees nearby, like many newer neighborhoods around Madison, because nothing forces the gutters to get cleaned. Not sure how old your roof is? See how long a roof lasts in Wisconsin. Granules collect in gutters and at downspout exits as shingles wear. And while we’re on the topic of gutters, be sure to get them cleaned! Late fall, before winter, is the most important time, because it reduces the likelihood and impact of ice dams. What Do Attic Drafts or Moisture Mean for My Roof? Your attic is a key indicator of your roof’s condition. If you experience: Cold drafts coming from the attic hatch or ceiling, even with the windows closed Moisture buildup or mold growth Visible daylight coming through the roof boards Then it’s time to have a roofing professional inspect for potential insulation gaps, ventilation issues, or leaks. Can a Roof Problem Raise My Energy Bills? A roof leak can soak your attic insulation, and an attic with poor ventilation or too little insulation forces your HVAC system to work harder to hold indoor temperatures. If you’ve noticed unexplained spikes in your energy bills, your roof may not be properly protecting your home from temperature fluctuations. One thing that rarely changes your energy bills in Wisconsin? Shingle Color. Can an Old Satellite Dish Cause a Roof Leak? Not all roofing risks look like obvious damage. Abandoned satellite dishes or antennae mounted on your roof are potential vulnerabilities. These systems are typically installed by telecom technicians, not roofing professionals. They are secured with lag bolts driven directly through shingles and often rely on exposed sealant and bolt pressure instead of proper flashing. Over time: Bolts loosen Sealants degrade Freeze-thaw cycles widen small gaps Water inevitably finds its way in Even if the dish is not leaking today, it represents an unnecessary roof penetration. And unnecessary penetrations are preventable risks. If you see a satellite dish or antenna that is no longer in use, it’s worth scheduling a professional inspection. Proper removal requires restoring the shingle system, not simply removing the hardware. A visible dish isn’t cosmetic. It’s a sign your roof deserves a closer look. When Should You Have Your Roof Inspected in Wisconsin? Spring, right after the snow melts, is the best time to have your roof inspected. Winter in Wisconsin puts more stress on your roof than most homeowners realize. Once temperatures rise and snow begins to melt, the damage that winter snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles may have done to your roof finally becomes visible. A post-winter roof inspection catches that damage before spring rains turn a small problem into a large one. A winter inspection can also be valuable, but winter roof replacements can be difficult to pull off in Wisconsin's climate. Knowing the professional roof inspection process helps you know what to expect and how to prepare before a roofer arrives. If you’re buying or selling a home, a roof inspection before buying or selling can reveal damage that affects the negotiation before closing. Can Fireworks Damage Your Roof in Wisconsin? Yes, though it is less common than storm damage. Fireworks launched nearby can leave behind embers, smoldering debris, and impact damage that aren’t always visible from the ground. If you’re hosting or near a Fourth of July celebration, it’s worth understanding the firework roof damage risks before the season starts. What to Do After a Storm Damages Your Roof in Wisconsin Once you've spotted damage, the next step is knowing who to call. And who to avoid. Right after a storm: Look from the ground for missing shingles, bent flashing, or dented gutters. Check your attic and ceilings for leaks, water spots, or musty smells. Take photos and note the date and time of the storm. Don’t sign anything on the spot, and check that any contractor is local and holds the Wisconsin Dwelling Contractor credential. Our post-storm roofing guide covers how to protect yourself from storm chasers who target Wisconsin homeowners after severe weather. Deciding whether to file a claim? Start with our storm damage roof insurance guide. Why You Shouldn’t Ignore These Roof Damage Signs Ignoring small roofing issues can lead to major damage, including costly interior water damage, mold and mildew problems, structural weakening of your home, and the need for a complete roof replacement. Catching a problem early almost always keeps the bill smaller, and our roof repair cost guide breaks down what different repairs typically run in Wisconsin. Schedule a Free Roof Inspection with Sun Vault Roofing The best way to stay ahead of roofing problems is through regular professional roof inspections. Sun Vault Roofing offers free roof inspections to homeowners throughout Southern Wisconsin from our Verona office, helping you catch issues before they become expensive repairs. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule your free roof inspection today! 📞 Call us at 608-608-1082 or request your free inspection online! Roof Damage Signs: Frequently Asked Questions What are the first signs of roof damage? The earliest signs are water stains on ceilings or walls, missing, curling, or cracked shingles, and shingle granules collecting in your gutters. Sagging sections, attic moisture, and unexplained jumps in energy bills point to bigger problems. Sun Vault Roofing offers free inspections to confirm what you are seeing. How do I know if my roof is leaking? A water stain on a ceiling or interior wall is the clearest sign of an active roof leak. In the attic, look for moisture, mold, or daylight showing through the roof boards. If you see any of these, schedule a roof inspection before the damage spreads to insulation and framing. Is a sagging roof an emergency? Yes. A sagging roof section signals structural weakness from water-soaked decking, heavy snow, or deteriorated supports, and it should be addressed immediately to prevent further damage or collapse. Call Sun Vault Roofing at 608-608-1082 to have it inspected. Can an old satellite dish cause a roof leak? Yes. Dishes are usually fastened with lag bolts driven through the shingles without proper flashing, so over time bolts loosen, sealant degrades, and water gets in. Removal needs the shingles underneath repaired, not just the hardware taken off. When should I have my roof inspected in Wisconsin? Spring, right after the snow melts, is the most important time, because winter snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles do damage that only shows once the snow clears. Sun Vault Roofing offers free roof inspections to homeowners throughout Wisconsin.

Imagine a world where your roof isn’t just shelter. It’s a power plant. In fall 2025, Sun Vault Roofing installed Wisconsin’s first solar shingle roof, a CertainTeed Solstice roof on a home on Madison’s West Side. Solstice solar shingles replace asphalt shingles on part of the roof and generate electricity without rack-mounted panels. The finished roof from above: solar shingles sit flush with the roofline, with asphalt shingles on the rest of the roof. Update, October 2026: this post is a record of the 2025 install. As of 2026, CertainTeed Solstice remains the only solar shingle available in Wisconsin. See how the solar shingle brands compare. What Are Solstice Solar Shingles? Conventional rack-mounted solar panels require drilling through your roof, into your structural attic rafters. But Solstice solar shingles from CertainTeed are the next evolution in residential solar technology. These solar shingles integrate directly into your roof. Solar shingles attach to the roof deck in place of asphalt shingles, offering a sleek, low-profile design that blends seamlessly with asphalt shingles. They generate clean energy without compromising curb appeal. Solar shingles suit homeowners who want clean energy without sacrificing style or the roof’s waterproof integrity. Tight spacing and straight courses leave no rails, brackets or gap underneath for debris or squirrels. Is this the same as the Tesla Solar Roof? Not exactly, but it’s the same category: integrated solar roofing. Homeowners often compare the Tesla Solar Roof (Tesla solar tiles) with CertainTeed Solstice solar shingles because both aim to combine roofing and energy production without the look of rack-mounted panels. The difference is in both design approach and availability. The Tesla Solar Roof is a fully proprietary tile system that uses a mix of active solar tiles and matching non-producing tiles to create a uniform appearance across the roof. As of 2026, Tesla has no confirmed installer network in Wisconsin. CertainTeed Solstice is an asphalt-integrated solar roofing system. Solar shingles are installed only in spots where they will generate meaningful energy, while the remainder of the roof is completed with conventional asphalt shingles. As of 2026, Solstice is available through certified roofing contractors, including Sun Vault Roofing, which simplifies permitting, installation, and long-term service for many Wisconsin homeowners. If you’re researching “Tesla solar roof tiles” but want an integrated solar roof that’s available, supported, and serviceable locally, Solstice is a practical alternative worth understanding. Why Does Solar Roofing Matter in Wisconsin? This isn’t another vanilla solar panel install. In fall 2025, Sun Vault Roofing completed Madison’s first solar shingle roof, a milestone for renewable energy in Wisconsin. As of 2026, CertainTeed Solstice is the only solar shingle product available in Wisconsin, and Sun Vault Roofing installs it. By embracing solar shingles, homeowners can reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy bills, and contribute to a greener future, all while maintaining their roof’s manufacturer warranty and producing an enviable aesthetic. Learn more about why we are so passionate about solar roofing. “Solar shingles create clean energy without the trade-offs of conventional panels,” says Jon Torre, co-owner of Sun Vault Roofing. “They maintain clean, modern aesthetics while preserving the waterproof integrity of the rooftop: every roofer’s top priority.” Solar shingles attach directly to the roof deck, without bulky steel racks or lag bolts driven through the shingles into the rafters. Notice how there is no space under the solar array. How Is a Solar Shingle Roof Installed? Our First Install in Wisconsin Installing solar shingles is a meticulous process, and we want to share what it took to make this historic project happen: Shingle Removal & Deck Inspection: We started by removing the old asphalt shingles down to the wood decking. Every inch of plywood was inspected for moisture or rot, and any compromised sections were replaced to ensure a solid foundation. Underlayment Application: Next came the ice-and-water shield underlayment. Unlike standard roofing felt, ice-and-water shield is a much thicker, self-adhering rubberized membrane that seals around fasteners, which makes it a critical barrier against moisture and Wisconsin’s harsh winters, even under conventional asphalt roofs. We use it across the solar sections of the roof for extra and longer-lasting protection. Starter Courses & Solar Shingle Prep: We laid the first few courses of asphalt shingles at the bottom edge of the roof, then installed the Solstice solar shingle starter strip to prepare for the solar array. Solar Shingle Installation: The first row of Solstice solar shingles went in, each connected with native wiring. From there, we zig-zagged up the array, linking shingles together until we reached the top. Inspection Pause: Because this was the first solar shingle roof in Madison, WI, we paused before installing ridge venting so the city inspector could see inside the open roof to review the product firsthand. Finishing Touches: After inspection, we dropped the wires into the attic, flashed around the array and completed the remaining asphalt shingles for a seamless finish. Caption: (Left) Nearly-completed array of CertainTeed's Solstice solar shingles on a rooftop on Madison's West Side. The asphalt shingles around the top of the array aren't yet in-place, so the ice and water shield underlayment and some wiring is still partially visible. (Right) Since this was the city of Madison's first-ever install of this kind, we had to wait patiently for the city inspector to have a first-hand look at our work before we closed everything up. Planning to add solar panels later? We recommend ice-and-water shield over the entire roof, or at least the sections that will hold solar. There is some evidence it resists leaking longer around the mounting feet that conventional racking requires. See do solar panels cause roof leaks. How Do Solar Shingles Compare to Solar Panels? Aesthetics: Solar shingles look like traditional roofing, unlike bulky panels. Durability: CertainTeed rates Solstice for 110 mph winds, and the roof gets the same flashing and ice-and-water shield details as a quality asphalt roof. Efficiency: Comparable energy output with integrated design. Value: Adds both energy savings and property appeal. Low-maintenance: Nowhere for squirrels to live. Don't contribute to ice damming. Do Solar Shingles Keep Squirrels Out? (Squirrel Justice) Ask anyone who’s owned a rack-mounted solar system for a few years, and you’ll hear a familiar story: squirrels. The open space beneath conventional rack-mounted panels makes perfect real estate for nesting. You can try to prevent it with "critter guards," but those systems aren't perfect. There is, however, a foolproof ( . . . squirrel-proof?) method. Solar shingles. When the solar sits flush to the roof deck, there's simply no room for unwelcome tenants. If we assume that roughly 10–20% of traditional solar arrays will eventually host a squirrel family, then in 2025, Sun Vault Roofing has statistically prevented at least two pest control calls (and spared those furry tenants the ordeal of eviction). Call it a small act of squirrel justice. How Wisconsin's First Solar Shingle Roof Got Noticed The Madison installation caught attention beyond the neighborhood. Sun Vault Roofing co-owner Mike Mannion was featured in a Clean Jobs Midwest profile covering the project and what it means for renewable energy work in Wisconsin. In Business Madison later profiled the company, and the Better Business Bureau serving Wisconsin named Sun Vault Roofing a 2026 BBB Spark Award for Entrepreneurship recipient. Can I Get a Solar Shingle Roof in Southern Wisconsin? This project is just the beginning. We’re committed to bringing solar shingles to more homes across Wisconsin, making renewable energy accessible and beautiful. As of October 2026, our completed solar roofs across Madison, Evansville, Sheboygan, Oconomowoc, Cambridge, Wauwatosa, Verona, Grafton, Delavan, and Cross Plains add over 135 kilowatts of solar capacity to Wisconsin homes. That’s the environmental equivalent of planting more than 3,000 trees. And it’s not just about energy output. Integrated design means: Zero exposed rack penetrations in your roof. We’ve avoided more than 2,200 rack mounting holes so far. Fewer leaks and lower maintenance risks. Longer-lasting roofs that protect your investment. Drone Photography: A Behind-the-Scenes Challenge Capturing aerial shots wasn’t easy. The home is near long-distance, high-voltage transmission lines, which can interfere with drone navigation due to electromagnetic signals. Despite the challenge, our licensed drone pilot followed all FAA and local regulations to safely capture these stunning views. Frequently Asked Questions Did Sun Vault Roofing install Wisconsin’s first solar shingle roof? Yes. In fall 2025, Sun Vault Roofing completed Wisconsin’s first solar shingle roof, a CertainTeed Solstice installation on a home on Madison’s West Side. The City of Madison inspector reviewed the open roof before the final shingles went on. What is a solar shingle roof? A solar shingle roof uses solar shingles that attach to the roof deck in place of some asphalt shingles and generate electricity, so no racks are bolted through the roof. CertainTeed Solstice shingles go only where they produce meaningful energy, and the rest of the roof is conventional asphalt shingles. Is a Solstice solar shingle roof the same as a Tesla Solar Roof? No, though both are integrated solar roofing. The Tesla Solar Roof replaces the whole roof with proprietary tiles, while CertainTeed Solstice uses solar shingles only where they pay off and asphalt shingles elsewhere. As of 2026, Solstice is the only solar shingle available in Wisconsin. Can squirrels nest under solar shingles? No. Solar shingles sit flush to the roof deck, so there is no open space underneath for squirrels to nest. Rack-mounted panels leave a gap beneath the array, which is why homeowners add critter guards to them. Is there a rebate for a solar roof in Wisconsin? Yes. Focus on Energy pays $600 per kW up to $2,400 for single-family homes with 2026 installs; apply within 60 days of installation and by January 31, 2027, and Sun Vault Roofing files it for customers. The federal 30% credit ended for systems placed in service after December 31, 2025. Interested in solar? Contact Sun Vault Roofing! Ready to transform your roof into a power plant? Request a free inspection today or call 608-608-1082 to learn more about solar shingles. Not sure if your home is a good fit for solar? Or feeling uncertain about whether solar shingles or conventional solar panels are the right choice? Fear not. Sun Vault Roofing can help you with the analysis. Sun Vault Roofing now works from a Verona, WI office at 115 Enterprise Dr, where homeowners can see solar shingle and asphalt shingle samples in person. Sun Vault Roofing exists because we’re passionate about reimagining the future of roofing. If you’re ready to see what a solar roof could look like on your home, we’d be excited to help.

Before you sign, ask any roofing contractor about insurance, ownership, manufacturer certification, what the estimate includes, who pulls the permit, and how long the workmanship warranty lasts. The questions below explain why each one matters and what a good answer sounds like. But not all roofing companies offer the same level of professionalism, service, or value. Before signing your roofing contract, here are the questions to ask your next roofing contractor. A roof in this condition is why contractor selection and a written scope matter before any work starts. Is My Roofing Contractor Licensed and Properly Insured? Ask this question first, as it is one of the most important. If a contractor doesn’t have proper insurance and something goes wrong, like a worker getting injured or a major water intrusion during installation, you, the homeowner, could be held financially responsible. Always ask for proof of insurance and make sure it’s up to date. In Wisconsin, contractors who work on one- and two-family homes are expected to hold a state Dwelling Contractor credential, which you can look up through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. Is It Better to Hire a Local Roofing Contractor? Local roofing companies have more at stake. They live and work in the same communities as their customers, which means reputation, follow-through, and long-term service actually matter. Roofing is not a one-day transaction. Local contractors understand Wisconsin weather, local permitting, and neighborhood expectations, and they are still around when you need service, documentation, or warranty support years later. This is why we recommend selecting a local roofing company. It is also worth understanding who actually owns the company you are hiring. Many national brands and franchises market themselves as local, but are owned by large holding companies or private equity firms. That ownership structure can influence pricing, sales pressure, and long-term accountability. When evaluating whether a contractor is truly local, ask: Who owns the company? Where is their office located? Will the same team handle service if issues arise later? Sun Vault Roofing is independently owned, Wisconsin-based, a member of Dane Buy Local, and maintains a rating with the Better Business Bureau. What Roofing Certifications Should a Contractor Have? Roofing manufacturers offer certifications to identify contractors who meet high standards for product expertise, installation quality, and business ethics. For example, CertainTeed’s contractor credential program includes: Shingle Quality Specialist™ Master Shingle Applicator™ ShingleMaster™ SELECT ShingleMaster™ (top-tier) Ask what certification level your contractor holds and how that compares to the available options. Sun Vault Roofing is a SELECT ShingleMaster™ - CertainTeed’s highest designation. This allows us to offer CertainTeed’s SureStart™ PLUS 3-Star Warranty with up to 50 years of coverage on materials, labor, tear-off, and disposal, as part of our overall Sun Vault One Vault Warranty protection package. Fewer than 1% of roofing contractors nationally hold this distinction. Installer certification level determines which CertainTeed warranty tiers a contractor can offer. What Roofing Materials and Brands Will Be Used on My Home? Make sure your contractor uses an established brand such as CertainTeed, GAF, or Owens Corning. At Sun Vault Roofing, we use shingles manufactured by CertainTeed, one of the most respected names in the industry, with over 100 years of experience. Many of their products are manufactured domestically. A reliable contractor will also offer strong, long-term warranties that stand behind the materials used. Is Metal Roofing Worth Considering in Wisconsin? Asphalt shingles are the default choice for most Wisconsin homeowners, but roofs can be made from all kinds of materials. That said, if a contractor recommends something other than asphalt, they had better have a good reason. Metal roofing has become something of a marketing phenomenon in the past decade. But our stance is that metal's a poor choice for most Wisconsin roofs when you consider the upfront cost and time value of money. Some of the most expensive roofing failures start in places homeowners never see once the job is finished. The next questions cover those hidden components, which are often skipped in low-cost estimates. Will My Old Shingles Be Removed or Covered Over? Skipping the tear-off step is cheaper, but it comes with serious consequences. Roofs installed over old shingles won’t last as long, and manufacturer warranties are typically invalidated. There are very few situations where skipping the tear-off is recommended, and a trustworthy contractor will explain your best option honestly. Without doing a full tear off, you can't know the condition of your roof deck. Will Flashing and Edge Metals Be Replaced With the Roof? Flashing refers to metal installed around chimneys, vents, and valleys to prevent water infiltration. Edge metals protect the roof's perimeter. These components are essential to a watertight roof. Ask whether your contractor plans to replace these materials. In most cases, the answer should be yes, unless they’ve been thoroughly inspected and are in excellent condition. If a contractor recommends leaving them in place, they should be able to explain why and confirm they’re still expected to last the full lifespan of your new roofing system. Otherwise, you risk premature leaks, costly repairs, and problems with warranty coverage. How Thorough Is Your Roof and Attic Inspection Process? Make sure the contractor will get on the roof for their inspection. A proper inspection should go beyond the surface. In addition to checking shingles and flashing, a reputable contractor will evaluate the attic ventilation, roof decking, and the overall structure for signs of wear, moisture buildup, or poor airflow. Why does attic ventilation matter? Ventilation is especially important. Without it, heat and moisture can build up in your attic, shortening the life of your roof and potentially causing mold or rot. Ask whether your contractor will check intake and exhaust vents, assess airflow, and make recommendations for improvement if needed. Ventilation is not optional, and it is not just a comfort issue. We’ve inspected roofs that failed in as few as 5-10 years because attic airflow was never properly evaluated during replacement. When heat and moisture are trapped, it can lead to condensation on attic framing, mold growth, ice damming, and premature shingle failure, even when high-quality materials were used. Most roofs don't fail because of the shingles. They fail because of ventilation. Ask your contractor to explain how they evaluate intake and exhaust balance, not just whether vents exist. A new roof installed over a poorly ventilated attic is still a compromised system. Should the inspection include soffit and fascia? A truly thorough inspection should also include soffit and fascia. These areas support your gutters, influence attic ventilation, and are common entry points for moisture and pests. If soffit or fascia boards are rotted, sagging, or compromised, installing a new roof on top of them can shorten the lifespan of the entire system. A reputable contractor should identify these issues early and explain whether repairs are necessary before roofing work begins. What Should a Roofing Estimate and Contract Include? A professional roofing estimate should clearly explain what is being done, how it will be done, and what happens if conditions change. Anything less creates room for confusion or unexpected costs. At a minimum, your written estimate should include a detailed scope of work, specific materials and product lines, tear-off and disposal plans, ventilation and flashing details, permit handling, project timeline, and payment structure. Vague one-page quotes or verbal estimates often leave out critical components that later reappear as added charges. The contract should also explain how change orders are handled, what warranties apply, and who is responsible if issues arise after installation. If a contractor can’t walk you through their estimate line by line, that’s a sign they may be cutting corners elsewhere too. What Roof Replacement Financing Options Do You Offer? If you’re not paying cash, ask how financing works and who is actually providing the loan. A reputable contractor should be transparent about whether prequalification affects your credit score, whether there are prepayment penalties, and what steps trigger a hard inquiry. At Sun Vault Roofing, homeowners can quickly and conveniently explore roof financing options and prequalify online in only minutes with an entirely digital experience. We also encourage customers to compare that convenience against alternatives like a HELOC through their local bank or credit union, as lower rates may be available and there are potential tax advantages. What Does My Roofing Warranty Actually Cover? Roofing warranties vary widely. And honestly . . . a lot of it is just marketing jargon. For something as critical as your roof, the terms matter far more than the headline. A meaningful roofing warranty should clearly define what is covered, for how long, and who is responsible if something goes wrong. Homeowners should expect a complete warranty discussion to address three distinct areas: 1. Roofing manufacturer coverage (materials and defects) This covers manufacturing defects in the shingles themselves. Many warranties marketed as “lifetime” are limited and prorated over time, meaning coverage decreases as the roof ages. Others may cover materials only, excluding labor, tear-off, or disposal. 2. System coverage (how components work together) A roof is a system, not just shingles. Coverage may or may not include underlayment, flashing, starter strips, ridge caps, and ventilation. If these components fail or were installed incorrectly, some warranties offer no protection at all. 3. Workmanship coverage (installation quality) Manufacturer warranties do not cover installation errors. That responsibility falls entirely on the contractor. Most roofing companies offer 5–10 years of workmanship coverage, and some offer none at all. Once that period expires, any installation-related issues become the homeowner’s responsibility. When reviewing warranties, always ask: Is coverage prorated or non-prorated? Does it include labor, tear-off, and disposal? How long is it transferable to a future homeowner? What conditions (ventilation, inspections, certifications) are required to keep it valid? A strong warranty is specific, written, and balanced between manufacturer protection and installer accountability. For comparison, the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty includes: CertainTeed SureStart™ PLUS 3-Star system warranty Up to 50 years of non-prorated coverage on materials and labor for manufacturing defects Tear-off and disposal included if shingles must be replaced due to a covered defect Transferable coverage for 15 years to the next homeowner A 20-year Sun Vault Roofing workmanship warranty, covering installation-related issues This level of coverage is not typical across the industry, particularly for workmanship, where most contractors limit coverage to 5–10 years. Learn more about the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty and how to read any roofing warranty. Will You Pull Roofing Permits and Schedule Inspections? Roofing permits protect homeowners, even when they feel like paperwork. In Madison and many other Wisconsin communities, roof replacements require a permit and inspection. A reputable contractor should always pull the permit for you and close it out properly. We’ve seen what happens when that doesn’t occur. A friend of ours backed out of buying a Madison home after discovering a recently replaced roof had no permit on file. With no inspection or public record, there was no way to verify the work. Unpermitted roofing can complicate home sales, insurance claims, and warranties. The correct answer to this question should be simple: “Yes, we’ll pull the permit and handle the inspections.” Anything else exposes you to unnecessary risk. Many Wisconsin municipalities use roofing permits to populate public records like the roof replacement year. If no permit is pulled, there may be no official record the work ever happened. This screenshot is from public property tax records in the City of Madison. How Will My Roofer Communicate During the Project? Roofing projects in Wisconsin rarely go exactly as planned. Weather shifts, material availability, and hidden conditions can affect timelines or scope. That’s why communication matters just as much as craftsmanship. Why can decking replacement change the price? One of the most common surprises during a roof replacement is plywood decking replacement. Beneath your shingles is waterproof underlayment, and beneath that are sheets of plywood fastened to your attic rafters. Over time, especially near the end of a roof’s life, that decking can become damp or rotten. Shingles cannot be installed on wet or deteriorated plywood. Doing so violates building code, voids manufacturer warranties, and puts contractor certifications at risk. The challenge is that decking condition cannot be confirmed with 100% certainty until the old shingles are removed. Even a thorough attic inspection may miss damage that exists on the top side of the plywood, directly under the shingles. That means a roof may be quoted at price X, then legitimately require additional decking once the roof is opened. At that point, replacement isn’t optional. The roof must be made sound before work can continue. Where contractors differ is how this is handled. Some crews replace decking as needed and inform the homeowner of the added expense only after the fact. At Sun Vault Roofing, we take a more transparent approach. We do our best to estimate potential decking replacement in advance, using roof walkability and inspection clues, and include that estimate in your proposal. We also explain upfront that additional decking may be required due to conditions that can’t be fully predicted. If more decking is discovered beyond the estimate, we communicate before costs escalate. What should I ask my roofer about communication? Ask your roofer: Who is my point of contact once work begins? How will you communicate unexpected findings? How are change orders approved and documented? Clear answers protect your budget, your roof, and your peace of mind. Does My Roof Need to Be Replaced Now or Can It Wait? Deciding whether to repair or replace your roof isn't always straightforward. Like getting a second opinion from a dentist, you can ask five roofers and get five different answers. And while many contractors strive to be objective, roof replacements are more profitable than repairs, which can subtly bias recommendations of commissioned salespeople. In most cases, it’s in a homeowner’s best interest to extend the life of a roof as long as it can be done safely. Not every aging roof needs immediate replacement. A knowledgeable, local contractor should be able to tell you whether your roof can make it through another Wisconsin winter and, if so, what short-term repairs or maintenance could reduce risk and buy time. That said, there are situations where replacement is the responsible option. If a roof has reached the end of its serviceable life, shows widespread failure, or poses a high risk of leaks or structural damage, patching may no longer be viable. When that’s the case, your contractor should clearly explain why, pointing to specific conditions or failure points, not just offering a blanket recommendation. If replacement is the right call, our roof replacement preparation guide walks through what to expect before work begins. How Long Does a Roof Last in Wisconsin? Knowing when to repair versus replace depends partly on where your roof is in its lifespan. Understanding roof lifecycle by year helps you evaluate a contractor's recommendation against objective benchmarks, not just their estimate. How Do I Spot Storm Chasers After a Wisconsin Storm? After a major storm, out-of-state crews often go door to door offering quick, low-cost repairs and asking you to sign before you have had time to compare. Ask for a local address, proof of insurance and a written estimate, and do not sign anything on the spot. Our post-storm roofing guide covers what to watch for. How Do Wisconsin Homeowners Spot Roofing and Solar Scams? Dishonest contractors do not only show up after a storm. Some use high-pressure sales tactics, manufactured urgency or misleading warranty language year-round. Our guide to the most common roofing and solar scams explains how to protect yourself before you sign. Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor: FAQ What questions should I ask a roofing contractor before signing in Wisconsin? Ask for proof of current insurance, who owns the company, which manufacturer certification they hold, what the written estimate includes (tear-off, flashing, ventilation, permits), and how long their workmanship warranty lasts. A contractor who answers each of these in writing is worth a second look. What license should a Wisconsin roofing contractor have? Wisconsin contractors who work on one- and two-family homes are expected to hold a state Dwelling Contractor credential, which you can look up through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. Also ask for proof of insurance. Permits are handled separately by your city or village, so ask who will pull yours. Should old shingles be torn off before a new roof is installed? In almost every case, yes. Roofs installed over old shingles do not last as long, manufacturer warranties are typically invalidated, and the decking underneath cannot be inspected. A trustworthy contractor will explain honestly if an exception applies. Does a roof replacement need a permit in Madison? In Madison and many other Wisconsin communities, yes. Your roofer should pull the permit and close out the inspection, because unpermitted work can complicate home sales, insurance claims and warranties. How long should a roofing workmanship warranty last? Most contractors limit workmanship coverage to 5–10 years. Sun Vault Roofing's workmanship warranty is 20 years, and it is part of the Sun Vault One Vault Warranty alongside CertainTeed's non-prorated SureStart PLUS 3-Star coverage. Why Choose Sun Vault Roofing? Sun Vault Roofing is an independently owned, Wisconsin-based roofing contractor and CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster offering both traditional roofing and solar-integrated roofing systems. We pride ourselves on honesty, craftsmanship, and clear communication. Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, normal wear and tear, or planning a full solar upgrade, we guide you every step of the way. 📞 Call 608-608-1082 or Schedule a Free Inspection to meet with a trusted roofing contractor today.

A roof moves from settling in to peak performance, gradual aging and replacement. A new roof is a major investment. Like any major system in your home, your roof follows a predictable life cycle with clear phases: installation, peak performance, gradual aging, and eventual replacement. At Sun Vault Roofing, we help Wisconsin homeowners make informed decisions at every stage. Most asphalt shingle roofs in Wisconsin last 20–30 years. Older 3-tab shingles typically reach end of life at 20–25 years, and newer architectural shingles may last 30–40+ years with proper installation, ventilation and maintenance. Key takeaways: Most Wisconsin asphalt roofs last 20–30 years; 3-tab shingles are closer to 20–25. Installation quality and maintenance matter more than the shingle label. Inspect every 2–3 years from year 6, and annually from year 11. Budget for replacement toward the end of years 11–20. This roof lifecycle guide outlines what to expect during each phase, how to maintain your roof proactively, and when to consider value-adding upgrades like solar shingles. How long does a roof last? Asphalt shingle lifespan in Wisconsin In real-world Wisconsin conditions, most asphalt shingle roofs last 20–30 years. Older 3-tab shingles typically reach end of life closer to 20–25 years. Newer architectural shingles are expected to last longer, potentially 30–40+ years, but those projections assume proper installation, ventilation, and ongoing maintenance. In practice, workmanship and care matter more than the shingle label itself. The majority of roofs we replace today are an older generation of 3-tab shingle technology, which typically reach end of life closer to 20–25 years, and only rarely make it past 30 years. Newer architectural shingles are engineered to last longer. The roofing industry anticipates that these will last 30-40+ years, with manufacturer warranties now extending up to 50 years. However, these longer lifespans are just estimates, and have not yet been proven in real-world conditions. The single biggest factor in how long a roof actually lasts isn’t the shingle. It’s the quality of the installation and regularity of the maintenance. Maintenance plays an outsized role in roof longevity. Simple issues like clogged gutters, trapped debris, or failing sealant can allow water to back up, wick under shingles, or sit against flashing for months at a time. Left unchecked, those small problems accelerate rot, fastener failure, and shingle breakdown. On the flip side, roofs that are inspected periodically, kept clear of debris, and repaired early often outperform their expected lifespan by many years. Shingle Technology Impacts Roof Lifespan The roof lifecycle guide below assumes we’re talking about the most common shingle type on older Wisconsin homes: basic 3-tab asphalt shingles. These were the standard for decades but have a shorter real-world lifespan and simpler construction than newer technologies. Most Wisconsin homes built before the mid-2000s still have 3-tab shingles, which behave very differently over time than modern architectural products. At Sun Vault Roofing, we only install premium architectural shingles. These are a thicker, layered product designed to better withstand wind, weather, and sun. If you’ve had your roof replaced in the last 10-15 years, you may already have these on your home. If you do, the timelines we describe may stretch longer. CertainTeed and other manufacturers have extended architectural shingle warranties up to 50 years based on material improvements, but real-world performance still depends heavily on installation quality, ventilation, and maintenance. Flashing that hasn’t relaxed yet (right side). It may look buckled like this for a few days or weeks after installation Even so, Wisconsin’s harsh seasons and weather conditions shorten every roof’s lifespan to some degree. Whether your shingles are 3-tab or architectural, regular inspections (especially after major storms) remain the smartest way to protect your home and avoid surprises. Year 0–1: What to Expect from a Brand-New Roof Roofs in their first year rarely show problems unless there was poor workmanship or skipped steps during installation. That said, even brand new roofs are vulnerable to storm damage, clogged gutters, or installation-related issues that only reveal themselves after the first few heavy rains or freeze–thaw cycles. This is the period when installation quality matters most, and when early corrections are easiest to make. Performance & Settling: In the first few weeks, your roof is still “settling in.” Flashing, sealant materials, and shingles may naturally relax and shift as they adjust to sun exposure and temperature changes. Sealant lines around vents and flashing may harden. This is completely normal. Early storms will put your roof’s installation quality to the test. It’s important to note any lifted shingles, water infiltration, or flashing concerns and report them immediately while warranties are active. Your roofer should walk you through the finished roof before you pay the final invoice. This is your chance to ask questions and have them point out areas, like flashing or sealant, that may relax in the first few weeks What to Check: Inspect your gutters if they weren’t replaced. Look for sagging, improper slope, or leftover debris from the install Organize and register your warranty paperwork. This makes any future warranty and insurance claims smoother. Remember your roof is a multi-decade investment. After a major storm, conduct a visual inspection or schedule a professional storm damage inspection to catch small issues early Warranties: Manufacturer: Full, non-prorated coverage for material defects typically begins now Workmanship: Most valid during this period—report issues early for easiest resolution Solar Tip: If you’re considering solar shingles, it’s best to install them at the same time as your new roof. Doing both together ensures optimal performance and protects your warranties. Years 2–5: Early Maintenance and Storm Resilience During years 2–5, most roofs are in their strongest performance window. Materials are intact, sealants are still flexible, and failure is uncommon. The biggest risks in this phase come from storms, debris buildup, or aging components that were reused during installation, such as flashing, pipe boots, or vents. Performance: Most roofs perform exceptionally well during these “easy years” Watch for signs of storm damage or algae/moss growth in shaded or humid areas Maintenance Tips: Clean gutters regularly, especially before and after winter. Clogged gutters or downspouts are a major risk to your home and its foundation. If soffit, fascia, or flashing were not replaced during your install, inspect them by year 5. They age independently Look for corrosion, rust, or gaps around reused flashing and vents If your last roof install reused existing flashing or vents (common for reducing upfront costs) it’s especially important to have those areas inspected by year 5. Even durable metal flashing can corrode or loosen over time, and older sealants may fail, creating hidden weak spots that simple patch jobs might not fully address. Many roofing warranties (workmanship and manufacturer) can be voided if someone other than your original roofer modifies your roof. This includes solar panel installation or repairs! To protect your coverage, always contact your original roofer for any repairs. If they’re no longer in business, reach out to your shingle manufacturer, like CertainTeed. They can help connect you with a certified contractor to keep your warranty intact. Warranties: Manufacturer: Often still within strongest coverage window Workmanship: May still be active depending on your contractor. Some contractors’ workmanship warranties expire within this window. At Sun Vault Roofing, you’re still covered here. Solar Tip: This is one of the best times to install solar panels. You’re early in your roof’s life, and most systems typically reach payback long before replacement is needed. A roof this age can still look great without a close inspection, which is why periodic checks matter. Years 6–10: Early Signs of Wear Begin to Appear By years 6–10, small signs of aging often begin to surface, even on well-installed roofs. Granule loss, sealant cracking, and minor flashing movement are common at this stage. These issues are usually manageable if addressed early, but ignored problems can quietly shorten the roof’s overall lifespan. Performance: Wear becomes more noticeable Granule loss may appear around downspouts or in rain barrels Sealant around vents or flashing may show small cracks Recommended Actions: Get a professional inspection every 2–3 years to catch developing issues early and track how long your roof will last Address minor repairs early to prevent larger failures Watch for signs of wood decay in soffit/fascia: peeling paint, moisture stains, visible soft spots Warranties: Manufacturer: Often still active, though likely prorated or covered for materials only Workmanship: Most contractor warranties expire before the 10-year mark, with the exception of some premium contractors. At Sun Vault Roofing, our 20-year workmanship warranty still applies after this period, and the non-prorated CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star coverage in our One Vault Warranty is still in force. Solar Tip: Some solar companies won’t install on roofs over 10 years old. You might still qualify with an inspection, and may need to sign a waiver. A roofing expert’s opinion matters more than a solar rep’s when assessing roof integrity. Debris in valleys holds moisture against shingles and is easy to clear during a routine inspection. Years 11–20: Aging Shingles and Replacement Planning This is the phase when aging becomes harder to ignore. Shingles may stiffen, crack, or curl, sealants lose elasticity, and flashing failures become more likely. Some roofs can safely continue with targeted maintenance, while others are approaching the point where repairs become less reliable. Regular inspections and honest assessments are critical during this window. Performance Indicators: Shingles may curl, crack, or become brittle Sealant may deteriorate and flashing could shift or corrode Interior signs such as attic moisture or ceiling stains can indicate deeper issues Smart Planning: Start budgeting for replacement toward the end of this window Conduct annual inspections to help determine how long your roof will last Act promptly. Many insurance policies deny claims due to long-term neglect Targeted repairs and maintenance activity can extend and maximize the lifetime of your roof, deferring costly replacements If you need repairs that involve replacing shingles after the 10-year mark, it’s common for your original shingle color to be discontinued or noticeably faded from sun exposure. Contractors may not be able to achieve a perfect color match. It’s good to know this upfront to set realistic expectations, especially in visible areas. Warranties: Manufacturer: Materials are often still covered against defects, but most defects would have presented themselves before this time. Workmanship: Almost every contractor’s workmanship warranty has expired long before the 20-year mark. The Sun Vault One Vault Warranty keeps our 20-year workmanship coverage in place until the 20-year mark and includes non-prorated CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star coverage, which is stronger than the prorated coverage many other contractors provide. Solar Tip: At this stage, solar panel installation is typically not recommended unless paired with roof replacement. Uninstalling and reinstalling panels later is costly and complex. Instead, consider upgrading to solar-integrated shingles during your next roof replacement. Cracking and surface breakdown are common past the 20-year mark, when replacement is usually the safer option. How much does a roof replacement cost in Wisconsin? Knowing roughly what a replacement may cost helps you decide when to act. Some homeowners are ready to move forward soon. Others use the number to plan, budget, or extend their roof’s life a season or two with targeted maintenance. If you didn’t plan ahead, there’s always roof financing to spread the cost of a new roof. A full inspection and written proposal will always provide the most accurate pricing. But if you’re not there yet and simply want a realistic starting point, an instant online estimate can help you understand the range before scheduling a full evaluation. When to Repair vs. Replace Your Roof in Wisconsin? As your roof moves through its middle and late years, targeted maintenance and repairs can help you extend the life of your current roof. Our guide to roof repair vs. replacement lays out exactly which signs point toward a targeted fix and which point toward a full replacement, so you're not guessing when a contractor gives you a quote. We also have a guide on the predicted costs of many common roof repairs so you can weigh the costs of targeted repairs against the anticipated impact on the increased lifetime of your roof. 20+ Years Marks End of Life for Most Asphalt Shingle Roofs For most asphalt shingle roofs in Wisconsin, 20+ years marks the end of their reliable service life. Leaks, granule loss, and widespread material fatigue become increasingly common, and insurance concerns often enter the picture. While short-term patches may still be possible, full replacement is usually the smartest long-term decision at this stage. Performance: Leaks, missing shingles, granule loss, and general roof fatigue are common Increased risk of interior damage and costly emergency repairs Minor holes and leaks can be repaired, but keep in mind that as patch repairs add up, it becomes harder to pinpoint the source of new leaks. Water travels in unpredictable ways, and overlapping fixes can create more confusion than protection. At a certain point, investing in full replacement is the smarter, longer-term solution. Very old roofs may incur ultimatums from your home insurance company. They may tell you that you need to replace it by a certain date or you will lose your coverage Next Steps: Schedule a replacement consultation Consider combining roof replacement with solar upgrade for long-term savings Warranties: Original coverage is likely expired New manufacturer and workmanship warranties begin with a fresh install A new roof from Sun Vault Roofing comes with the One Vault Warranty, including non-prorated CertainTeed SureStart PLUS 3-Star coverage that can be transferred to a new homeowner within the first 15 years. Solar Tip: This is the best moment to install CertainTeed Solstice Shingles. One project, two solutions: energy and protection. Roof Longevity is Heavily Impacted by Workmanship and Maintenance The timelines discussed here are averages and assume a baseline level of quality and maintenance. We frequently see examples where under or over-performance in these areas can dramatically change a roof's lifespan. For example, we recently inspected a 5-year-old roof in the Wisconsin Dells that was already at the end of its serviceable life. Not because of weather, but because of shortcuts during installation: The shingles were nailed with an improper pattern, original flashing and pipe boots were never replaced, and no ice-and-water shield (a self-sealing waterproof membrane that goes under shingles in the most leak-prone areas) was installed beneath critical areas. The result was widespread failure in a roof that should have lasted decades. This is an extreme case, but it illustrates an important truth: poor workmanship can shorten a roof’s lifespan by decades, regardless of the shingle brand or warranty. On the other end of the spectrum, we’ve also seen 3-tab shingle roofs exceed 40 years when installation was meticulous and the homeowner stayed on top of inspections and maintenance. These cases are rare, but they prove that workmanship and care can matter more than the product label alone. We’ve noticed a similar pattern with entry-level new construction in Madison: roofs on homes built in the last five years are not lasting very long. In the March 2026 windstorm, the majority of homes that lost shingles were built within the past five years, which were roofs that should have had decades left. Cheaper materials and rushed installation may be shortening some of these roofs to 10–15 years. If you bought a newly built home in the Madison area, don’t assume a new roof means a trouble-free roof. An independent inspection in the first year or two can catch shortcuts before they become leaks. Who Installs Your Roof Matters as Much as What Goes on It Workmanship is the single biggest variable in how long your roof lasts, which makes choosing the right contractor a decision worth researching. Large national roofing chains backed by private equity have expanded aggressively into Wisconsin markets, and their incentive structures don't always align with long-term quality. Understanding private equity in roofing helps you ask the right questions before signing a contract. Replacing your roof also often means vetting contractors at a vulnerable moment, right after a storm or when damage is already visible. Wisconsin homeowners are frequent targets for high-pressure tactics and low-quality work. Read about Roofing and solar scams to watch for before you sign anything. How Wisconsin Weather Events Can Shorten Your Roof's Lifespan Wisconsin's seasonal extremes already push roofs harder than manufacturer timelines account for. The 2026 Super El Niño forecast points to conditions that could accelerate wear on roofs already in the middle or late stages of their lifecycle. What Happens During a Roof Replacement in Wisconsin? If your roof is approaching end of life, knowing what to expect helps you plan with confidence. Our roof replacement process walks through each step from initial inspection to final walkthrough, so there are no surprises on installation day. Do You Need to Remove a Solar Hot Water System Before Roof Replacement? If your home has a solar hot water system mounted on the roof, it needs to come off before replacement work begins. Our guide to solar hot water system removal covers what to expect, who coordinates the work, and how to avoid delays on installation day. Ready to Understand and Extend How Long Your Roof Lasts? Whether you’re in year one or twenty, Sun Vault Roofing helps you protect your investment. We offer roof inspections, long-term warranties, and premium solar roofing backed by top manufacturer credentials. 📞 Call 608-608-1082 or schedule your free consultation. Frequently Asked Questions about How Long Roofs Last Does Shingle Color impact roof longevity in Wisconsin? Not really. You should select a color based on curb appeal. Dark colors tend to hold their color and age better in Wisconsin's climate. Some folks believe that choosing a lighter shingle color can save on energy bills, but that is not true. You can read about why in how shingle color and roof temperature interact. Is Metal Roofing Worth Considering Instead? Asphalt shingles are the right call for most Wisconsin homes, but some homeowners replacing an aging roof ask whether metal roofing in Wisconsin makes more sense for their situation. The comparison comes down to upfront cost, expected lifespan, and how each material holds up through freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snow loads. Asphalt usually wins. Why Choose a BBB-Accredited Roofing Contractor in Wisconsin? When you're making a 20- to 30-year investment in your roof, the contractor's track record matters as much as the shingles. Sun Vault Roofing's 2026 BBB Spark Award recognizes our commitment to ethical business practices and customer service, the same standards that back every warranty and inspection we offer Wisconsin homeowners. How often should I have my roof inspected in Wisconsin? Every 2–3 years from about year 6, and annually once your roof passes year 11. Also schedule an inspection after any major storm, since small storm damage is cheapest to fix early. When should I start budgeting for a new roof? Toward the end of years 11–20, when shingles begin to stiffen, crack or curl. Most 3-tab roofs reach end of life around 20–25 years, so a roof past year 15 should already be on your plan. Does workmanship matter more than the shingle? Yes. Installation quality and maintenance are the biggest factors in how long a roof lasts, more than the shingle label.