Sun Vault Roofing was recently featured in In Business Madison, highlighting our work bringing solar roofing to Wisconsin homeowners. The article captures a shift we’re seeing firsthand. And there are a few key ideas worth expanding on. Pages 6 and 7 of the April 2026 edition of In Business Madison, highlighting Sun Vault Roofing and our approach to solar roofing and integrated solar shingles for Wisconsin homes What is solar roofing in Wisconsin and how is it different from solar panels? Conventional solar panels are mounted on top of your roof using racks and penetrations. That approach works well and has helped drive solar adoption. Integrated Solar shingles (also called solar roofing) takes a different approach: the solar is built directly into the roof system instead of added on top. That means: Fewer penetrations into the roof A lower-profile, more integrated look A system designed to function as one unit A simple way to think about it: built in, not bolted on. The Sun Vault Roofing team on a completed solar roof, built for durability, performance, and a seamless look Is solar roofing better than solar panels in Wisconsin? It depends on your objective. If your goal is the cheapest possible upfront system cost, conventional solar panels are a better option. If you are aiming to optimize for lower long-term risk and maintenance burden, improved home aesthetics and resale value, and maximum roof durability, you should consider integrated solar roofing as a premium upgrade. We are pro-solar in all forms. Conventional solar panels are cost-effective, proven, and often the best option for many homes. Solar roofing isn’t about replacing panels. It’s about expanding solar to homeowners who: Don’t like the look of conventional panels Are concerned about long-term roof durability Want a more integrated solution during a roof replacement Both approaches will always play a role. Why are more homeowners considering solar roofing now? Several trends are converging: Roofs eventually need to be replaced "Premium" roofing materials are gaining popularity (e.g., metal) Utility costs are rising and less predictable More homes are electrifying The economics of solar are transitioning towards long-term investment For many homeowners, the roof replacement moment is when solar finally makes sense. Instead of treating roofing and solar as separate projects, solar roofing combines them into one. Is solar roofing right for every Wisconsin home? No. The right solution depends on factors like: Roof direction and shape Sun exposure and shading Roof obstructions and attic architecture Energy usage In many cases, conventional panels will still be the better fit. In others, solar roofing provides advantages in durability, aesthetics, and integration. Sun Vault Roofing helps homeowners decide whether conventional panels or integrated solar shingles are the right approach for their property. The goal is to choose the right system rather than forcing a single approach. Sometimes Solar Doesn't Make Sense at All Not every home is a good fit for solar. You need sun, space, and a decent electrical bill. Learn about whether Solar is right for your home. If it isn't, you have options. There are batteries, time of use rates, utility programs like community solar, and balcony solar. Your goals dictate your next step. Learn more about which solar alternatives available in Wisconsin. How much does a solar roof cost in Wisconsin? Because a solar roof performs two functions, it’s best to evaluate cost relative to its combined value. In most cases, a solar roof will be somewhat more expensive than replacing your roof and then adding conventional solar panels. This difference comes from specialized materials and installation requirements. The cost of a solar roof depends on many factors, not only the size of your roof. It also depends on energy usage and how much solar is needed to offset that usage. At Sun Vault Roofing, our integrated solar roof projects have typically ranged from $45,000 to $99,000, depending on system size and complexity. Many of our customers begin the process by evaluating whether they should replace and upgrade their current asphalt roof to either a metal roof or a solar roof. Both options often come with similar costs. But only the solar roof option actually provides long-term savings. And ultimately, metal roofs aren't a great fit for residential homes in Wisconsin. The takeaway: solar is becoming part of the roof The biggest shift is conceptual. Solar is moving from something you add to your home to something your home is built around. We’re still early in that transition in Wisconsin, but it’s gaining momentum. Join the transformation by requesting a roofing and solar assessment today.

It's independence Day in Wisconsin: Cookouts 🍔 Brats 🌭 Sparklers 🎆 And an unspoken contest to see who can light up the neighborhood sky. 🧨 But while you're looking up, your roof is taking the brunt of what comes down. And that can mean unexpected, oft overlooked damage. Firework-related roof damage is less common than storm damage, but when it does occur, it usually involves embers, smoldering debris, or delayed ignition rather than obvious impact damage. That difference matters because many roofing issues caused by fireworks aren’t immediately visible from the ground. Here’s what homeowners and commercial property owners should know about roof and solar panel fire safety during the July 4th holiday. Why Your Roof is at Risk from Fireworks Fireworks are festive, but they’re also unpredictable. Embers, sparks, or whole firework shells can land on rooftops and ignite roofing materials, debris, or gutters. In Wisconsin, dry midsummer conditions can increase the risk that when they fall, those embers land on dry, flammable debris. Why Flat and Low-Slope Roofs Are Especially Vulnerable to Firework Damage Unlike pitched roofs that shed debris, flat surfaces tend to collect it. Including fire hazards. In Wisconsin, it’s common to see flat or low-slope roofs on homes that have: Sunrooms Covered porches Attached garages or carports Mid-century modern vibes Even a small ember sitting on the right patch of dry material can do real damage. Over the years, we’ve seen some strange damage on flat roofs after the Fourth: burn marks from spent fireworks, small holes from smoldering debris, even areas that looked intact from the ground but failed days later. Almost without exception, these incidents happened on flat or low-slope roofs where fireworks could land, sit, and burn instead of sliding off. Why Older Asphalt Roofs Are More Prone to Firework Damage Asphalt shingles are made up of 3 main parts: Asphalt/tar (flammable) Fiberglass (somewhat flammable) Granules, i.e., rocks (not flammable) As shingles age, or if they become damaged, they shed the protective granules, exposing the flammable tar underneath. This inevitably leaves behind a more vulnerable product. When granules are lost, heat and embers have a much easier path to the flammable asphalt layer beneath. If your roof is nearing or at the end of its lifespan, you may be more at-risk. Proper maintenance can help extend the life of your roof. Firework Roof Safety Tips for Homeowners Before festivities begin, prep your roof. Most firework-related roof damage isn’t caused by a direct hit. Rather, it’s the result of embers landing on flammable debris that’s already there. A little prevention goes a long way. Clear roof debris before celebrations. Especially around low-slope roof lines and gutters. Dry leaves, pine needles, even bird nests can catch fire. Clean your gutters before the holiday (dry material + fireworks = risk). Know the wind direction before lighting any fireworks. Be even more cautious in high or inconsistent wind situations. Keep a safe distance from your own roof when lighting. 💡 Not sure your roof or gutters are ready for the 4th? We offer gutter cleaning and quick inspections for peace of mind. Call 608-608-1082 Fireworks and Flat Commercial Roofs: What Property Managers Should Know Commercial roofs don’t get holiday breaks. If you manage a flat-roofed building in southern Wisconsin, especially near neighborhoods, parks, or public event spaces, there’s a good chance it’ll catch some fallout from fireworks on the 4th. Unlike pitched roofs, flat commercial roofs tend to trap debris. Add synthetic roofing materials, HVAC equipment, and a few stray embers, and you’ve got a recipe for damage that might not be discovered until days later. Especially if the building sits empty over the holiday weekend. Even a small scorch mark or blistered membrane can lead to leaks or void your warranty down the line. Many commercial roofing warranties require prompt reporting of heat or fire-related damage, even if leaks are not yet visible. Firework Roof Safety Tips for Business Owners Flat commercial roofs are giant landing pads for spent and smoldering fireworks and flammable debris. Don’t give stray fireworks an open runway. Inspect your flat roof or have a pro do it before the 4th. Secure rooftop signage or equipment that might attract fireworks or blow embers across the roof. Talk to neighboring businesses if you suspect firework activity nearby, especially if your building will be closed. How to Spot Roof Damage After July 4th Fireworks On July 5th, after the smoke clears, walk the perimeter of your property. Look (and smell) for anything unusual. Not all damage is obvious from the ground. Firework-related damage often presents subtly at first, which is why visual and sensory clues matter. Here’s what to watch for: Scorch marks or melted areas on shingles or membranes Charred debris on the roof or in valleys Smoke stains near attic vents or skylights Curling shingles or deformed flashing Gutters clogged with shells, ash, or dry leaves Minor discolorations Unfamiliar smells If you notice anything suspicious, get a free inspection from a roofing pro, rather than climbing up yourself. Rooftop damage may be tricky to spot and risky to inspect alone. Small remnants like this can cause roof fires or surface damage if left unnoticed. Class A Fire-Rated Shingles vs. Fireworks: What You Need to Know Many modern, premium asphalt shingles (including the CertainTeed shingles we use) carry a Class A fire rating, the highest level of fire resistance for roofing materials. That’s good news for your home. But even Class A shingles can’t prevent damage if debris ignites or sits smoldering on the surface. Especially when combined with summer heat and dry conditions. It’s still smart to prepare and inspect. Are Solar Panels or Solar Roofs at Risk from Fireworks? If your property has conventional rack-mounted solar panels, the exposed wiring or junction boxes can be affected by firework debris. This is rare, but possible. Most modern solar systems are designed with fire resistance in mind, but debris accumulation can still pose a risk. The best way to keep your rooftop solar system safe from fireworks is to: Make sure there is no flammable accumulation (e.g., leaves, twigs) under your panels before fireworks happen. Check that there are no smoldering debris on your rooftop after fireworks happen. However, NEVER attempt to inspect or touch solar components yourself. When in doubt, call your installer or roofing contractor (or us: 608-608-1082). Sun Vault Roofing's solar-integrated roofing systems use low-profile shingles with no exposed wiring, which means fewer points of vulnerability. It’s just one more reason solar roofing can be a smart, safe upgrade . . . especially if you enjoy being the envy of the neighborhood night sky. Is Firework Damage to Your Roof Covered by Insurance? Most policies cover fire damage, but double-check. If you end up needing to file a claim, having a recent inspection and photos can help. Coverage can vary based on cause, documentation, and timing of the inspection. Don’t Want to Worry? Watch a Public Display Instead Lighting your own fireworks can be fun, but if you’d rather leave the sparks to the pros (and spare your gutters), here are some local shows worth checking out: Monona Community Festival DeForest 4th of July Celebration Waunakee Waunaboom Verona Fireworks at Festival Foods Enjoy the show, support your community, and protect your property all at once. Peace of Mind, On the House Fireworks are meant to spark joy, not roof damage. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, a free post-holiday roof inspection can help you rest easy after the celebrations. We offer free post-holiday inspections for homes and businesses. If we spot damage, we’ll explain your options. Trusted expertise, no pressure. Call Sun Vault Roofing 608-608-1082 or Request a Free Inspection!

When you live in Wisconsin, it’s natural to wonder: do solar shingles work during winter? With shorter days, cloudy skies, and plenty of snow, it’s a fair question. The short answer: yes, they absolutely do. At Sun Vault Roofing, we design every solar roofing system to maximize annual economic savings, not just seasonal performance. Our systems account for seasonal swings, so you’ll naturally see higher production during long, sunny summer days and lower output during short, overcast winter ones. But the overall yearly return remains strong and predictable, on average. Even with light snow coverage, solar shingles keep working. Their dark glass surface and the heat generated from electricity production help snow melt and slide off quickly once the sun comes out, and short pauses in production during winter storms have little impact on your system’s annual energy output. After 9+ inches of snow in late November 2025, this solar shingle array on the west side of Madison remained clear and energy-producing despite the remainder of the roof still being covered in snow. Do Shingles Work in Winter? What to Expect from Solar in Cold Weather Lower Sun Hours, Not Lower Performance Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells, including solar shingles, actually operate more efficiently in cold temperatures. The electronics in your solar system perform best in cooler conditions, so the cold isn’t what limits production, it’s the shorter daylight hours, overcast skies, and snow coverage. Solar cells generate power whenever there is sunlight, even if filtered through clouds. On heavily overcast days, they typically still produce up to 25% of their usual output. A cold sunny day, with minimal cloud cover, can still produce up to 80% of clear-sky output, thanks to diffuse light and favorable cell efficiency in cool temperatures. How Snow and Ice Affect Solar Shingles Designed for Wisconsin Winters Solar shingles have a low-profile design that sits flush against your roof, which means less risk of snow overhang or ice dams forming underneath.With conventional, rack-mounted solar panels, these risks can be more severe. The slight warmth generated by the system, combined with the enhanced slipperiness of solar glass, helps snow naturally shed from the surface. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, solar systems can continue to thrive in winter weather, and snow accumulation typically has a negligible impact on annual energy production (Energy.gov). That said, not every storm will melt away instantly. Your solar shingles may stay covered for a few days or even weeks after heavy snowfall, and that’s completely normal. Your system isn’t broken; production simply pauses temporarily until the sunlight returns. Should You Remove Snow from Solar Shingles? No, almost never. The risks to both you and the system are simply too great from the small benefit you may receive. In most cases, it’s best to let nature take its course and wait for the snow to melt naturally. Remember: we optimize our systems for annual performance and winter production makes up only a small percentage of your total annual solar output. Your loss due to snow cover is predicted-for in our modeling and ultimately negligible on an annual basis. If heavy snow ever becomes a concern or you’re unsure about whether it needs to be removed, contact the Sun Vault Roofing team at 608-608-1082. We can inspect your system, offer professional guidance, and in extreme circumstances recommend safe snow-removal options to protect both your roof and your solar shingles. Hail Resistance and Durability Wisconsin weather is tough, but solar shingles are tougher. They’re hail-resistant, tested to withstand significant impact without compromising performance. CertainTeed’s Solstice solar shingles are Class 3 impact-rated. This means they remain unscathed after being struck head-on by a 1.75-inch steel ball dropped from a height of almost 18 feet. Our standard asphalt shingles carry the exact same impact rating, so you can know that you are not sacrificing durability or protection by your decision to go solar. Even if hail cracks the outer glass surface, the underlying waterproof layer protects your roof from leaks. Most systems continue to function with only slight efficiency loss until a replacement shingle is installed. And in the unlikely event that the glass of your solar shingles does crack, fret not, for the roof will remain watertight. The waterproofing elements of the integrated solar roof system are separate from and not reliant on the photovoltaic glass. Understanding Sun Angles and Roof Pitch To generate the most solar energy, sunlight should hit your roof as close to perpendicular (90°) as possible. But since the sun’s angle changes throughout the year, your roof pitch affects how much light your solar shingles can capture during each season. Roof Pitch and Seasonal Production Your roof’s slope, known as its pitch, plays a big role in how efficiently your solar shingles capture sunlight throughout the year. Roof pitch is typically measured in “rise over run.” For example, a 4/12 roof means it rises 4 feet in height for every 12 feet it travels horizontally. The steeper the pitch, the more upright your roof surface is, and that angle changes how sunlight hits your solar shingles through the seasons. The ideal pitch depends on your home’s design and location, but since you can’t tilt your roof to follow the sun, finding the right balance for year-round performance is key. Shallow Roofs (4/12 pitch, ~18° tilt) Shallow roofs perform great in the summer when the sun is high overhead, maximizing solar production during long, sunny days. In winter, output naturally drops because the low-angle sun hits the roof less directly. However, the seasonal difference between summer and winter production is less dramatic compared to steeper roofs. Moderate Sloped Roofs (8/12 pitch, ~34° tilt) A moderately sloped roof delivers the best year-round balance. This pitch provides strong summer output while also capturing more of that hard-to-reach winter sunlight. You’ll still see reduced production in the cold months due to shorter days and lower sun angles, but this middle-ground slope helps maximize energy generation across the calendar. Steep Roofs (12/12 pitch, ~45° tilt) Steep roofs shine in winter, with solar shingles positioned to soak up low-angle sunlight more effectively than flatter roofs. Expect a larger seasonal swing: winter production improves, but summer output may be slightly lower compared to shallower roofs. Here’s a quick comparison at a glance: Roof Pitch Winter Performance Summer Performance Seasonal Swing (Difference) 4/12 (~18°) Fair (shallow sunlight impact angle) Excellent Large (big drop from summer to winter) 8/12 (~34°) Good Very good Moderate (best year-round balance) 12/12 (~45°) Strong (impact angle near perpendicular with low sun) Less idea Smallest (most even performance across seasons) Wisconsin’s Winter Sun Angle Most of Wisconsin sits between 43° and 45° north latitude (Madison is around 43.1°N). That position means the sun’s height in the sky changes dramatically throughout the year, and this shift is one of the main reasons solar output varies by season. Time of Year Sun Elevation at Solar Noon Summer Solstice (June 21) ~70° above the horizon Winter Solstice (Dec 21) ~23° above the horizon During winter, the sun stays lower on the horizon all day. This means sunlight travels through more atmosphere before it reaches your roof, reducing intensity and duration. It’s a normal part of Wisconsin’s solar cycle, and one that Sun Vault Roofing’s solar design and engineering process accounts for to optimize your system for steady, reliable performance year-round. Why Winter Is the Perfect Time to Go Solar Even though climbing on roofs is trickier during winter, solar system design, permitting, and planning happen year-round. In fact, winter is an ideal time to start the process. When you reach out early, our team can: Complete design and permitting before spring Collaborate with utility companies on interconnection processes during their slow period Schedule your installation before the busy season Ensure your system is live by the time long, sunny summer days arrive Final Answer: Do Solar Shingles Work in Winter? Cold weather isn’t the enemy of solar power, lack of sunlight hours is. Solar shingles and integrated solar roofing systems are designed and engineered for year-round performance, with high efficiency in cold temperatures, strong hail resistance, and natural snow-shedding properties. If you’re considering solar for your Wisconsin home, winter is the perfect time to get started. That way, by the time summer rolls around, your roof will already be generating clean, renewable energy and maximizing your savings.

Roofing problems don’t always wait for ideal weather. Wisconsin winters can be harsh. If you're dealing with a damaged or aging roof in December or January, you might be wondering: Can you replace a roof in winter? The short answer is yes, but there are a few key caveats. At Sun Vault Roofing, we’ve seen everything from January ice dams to sudden March thaws, so we know how to judge when winter work is smart and when it’s better to wait. Let’s explore when winter roofing is possible, when it's not ideal, and how to make the best decision for your home. The Best Winter Roof Care Happens Before Winter Most winter roofing problems are not caused by snow or ice alone. They start as small weak points months earlier: worn flashing, aging shingles, clogged gutters, and attic ventilation issues that don’t show up until freeze-thaw cycles and ice dams remove your margin for error. If you can plan ahead, the smartest “winter roofing strategy” is simple: inspect and maintain your roof in early fall, before the first snow. Small fixes are easier, safer, and cheaper when the roof is dry, materials seal properly, and crews can work without ice hazards. If you’re reading this in December or January, don’t panic. Winter work is sometimes necessary, and we’ll cover when it’s possible. But in most cases, the goal is to avoid needing a winter roof replacement at all. Can You Replace a Roof in Winter? Winter Roof Replacement in Wisconsin explained Yes, but only under the right conditions. Most reputable roofers in Wisconsin can perform winter roof replacements when necessary, but it's not always recommended unless it's an emergency or unavoidable. Cold temperatures, snow, and unpredictable weather introduce several challenges to roofing projects. Roofing Temperature Limits and Manufacturer Guidelines Most asphalt shingles require a minimum temperature of 40°F for proper installation. This is often a condition for the manufacturer warranty to remain valid. In cold temps, shingles can become brittle and more prone to cracking Sealant strips may not adhere properly unless warmed by the sun or heated with special techniques Fasteners can crack shingles if installed while they're too rigid In emergency situations, skilled roofers may perform installations in temps as low as 25-35°F using specialized methods, including: Hand-sealing shingles with roofing cement Storing shingles in a heated area until use Installing under direct sunlight to help warm materials However, these methods require experience and precision, and they aren't always practical for full roof replacements. Risks of Improper Roof Installation in Cold Weather Attempting a winter roof replacement without proper precautions can result in: Shingles becoming brittle and cracking during handling or fastening Sealant strips failing to bond, leaving shingles poorly sealed Shingles not laying flat, increasing the chance of blow-offs Greater risk of wind uplift and moisture intrusion Voided manufacturer warranty if cold-weather guidelines aren’t followed This is why it's crucial to work with certified contractors who understand winter-specific protocols and materials. How Professional Roofers Manage Winter Roof Replacements Experienced roofing contractors in Wisconsin can adapt to cold-weather installations using: Synthetic underlayment designed for flexibility and traction in freezing temps Cold-weather-rated shingles that are less prone to cracking Heated storage for materials Careful scheduling around warmer days or sunny windows Snow and ice removal ahead of time to ensure safe, dry working surfaces At Sun Vault Roofing, we only proceed with winter work when conditions allow us to meet or exceed manufacturer and safety standards. When winter inspections need to wait (and why that’s okay) Even scheduling a roof inspection in winter can be tricky. This is exactly why pre-winter inspections matter: once the roof is buried in snow and ice, even good roofers are forced to make decisions with limited visibility. Frozen shingles, iced-over valleys, and snow-packed gutters can hide damage and make inspections incomplete or unsafe. Gutter inspections are often even more challenging. Gutters that haven’t been cleaned before winter can freeze solid and stay partially frozen for weeks, even after snow has melted from the roof and the ground. In practice, if you call us and your issue isn’t an emergency, we may recommend waiting for a few warmer days before inspecting your roof. That allows us to evaluate everything accurately, not guess through ice. Of course, if your issue is an emergency, we do offer winter services like snow removal, ice dam prevention, and urgent repair. When that happens, we don’t leave you hanging. We’ll take down your information and proactively reach out once conditions improve and a thorough inspection is possible. That way, the issue stays on our radar and off your to-do list. If there’s an active leak in the middle of winter or an urgent risk, we’ll act immediately. If not, waiting a short time often leads to better answers, safer work, and fewer surprises. When Winter Roof Replacement Makes Sense There are times when you simply can't wait until spring and you may need emergency roofing services in winter: Active leaks that threaten your interior Storm damage that compromised your roof's integrity Mold or rot detected in the attic Real estate transactions that require a new roof prior to closing In these cases, winter roof replacement is not only possible, it's necessary. Just know that the process may take longer due to weather-related delays. If you’re not sure whether your roof’s issues require immediate action, check out our guide on common roof damage signs so you can spot problems before they become emergencies. Delays to Expect with Winter Roofing Unlike summer installs, winter roof replacements face several unpredictable variables: Snow or freezing rain can delay work by days or weeks Shoveling and ice removal add prep time Shorter daylight hours mean slower progress Madison winters can be unpredictable. In February 2025 we saw temperatures swing from 10°F to nearly 50°F in a single week. These wild swings can open short, warmer windows for work, and many homeowners appreciate that off-season scheduling is often faster than the spring rush. How Madison Weather Damages Roofs Year-Round Wisconsin's freeze-thaw cycles, ice dams, and heavy snow loads don't just create winter emergencies. They wear down your roof across every season. Understanding Madison weather and roof damage helps you plan maintenance before conditions force your hand. When You’re Better Off Waiting for Spring In non-emergency situations, waiting until warmer weather is often the smarter, safer choice: Materials install more easily and adhere properly Roofers can work more efficiently and safely Your new roof is more likely to perform at its best from day one Temporary repairs may bridge the gap until spring. These might include: Emergency tarping Flashing reinforcement Spot sealing to control active leaks Our team at Sun Vault Roofing can assess your roof and recommend the best course of action based on condition, forecast, and urgency. When to Start Budgeting for a Roof Replacement If you decide (or are forced) to wait until spring for a full replacement, you can still start the financial planning immediately. Winter weather can delay accurate inspections, material handling, and full installs, but it doesn’t prevent you from getting a ballpark replacement budget range and comparing options. Planning ahead is how you avoid the “first warm week panic,” when schedules book up and homeowners feel rushed. One practical step you can take right now is to price out a full roof replacement based on your home’s roof geometry and material type. That gives you a baseline number to work with while you wait for a weather window or a spring install date. Final Tips for Homeowners If you're considering roof replacement during winter: Ask your contractor about temperature limits and installation methods Make sure all products and techniques are warranty-compliant Don’t delay emergency repairs as they often get worse with time Always work with a team familiar with Wisconsin winters At Sun Vault Roofing, we follow all of these best practices, because protecting your home comes first. Whether you need an emergency repair now or want to plan ahead for spring, we’ll provide a thorough inspection and recommend the safest, most cost-effective solution for your situation. Wisconsin winters are for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and catching up on that favorite series. Roofing isn’t usually on the list. But with the right contractor and conditions, it can be. 📞 Still wondering, ‘Can you replace a roof in winter?’ Call us today at 608-608-1082 or fill out our quick online form to schedule your free consultation.