Frequently Asked Questions

If your roof is over 20 years old, has widespread shingle damage, or requires frequent repairs, replacement typically makes more financial sense. Multiple leaks, granule loss across large sections, and sagging areas indicate structural issues that repairs won't solve long-term.

Freeze-thaw cycles cause water trapped under shingles to expand when frozen, lifting nails and breaking seals. This creates gaps where moisture enters, leading to rot in fascia and soffit. Metal roofing handles these temperature swings better than asphalt shingles because it doesn't absorb water.

Vinyl resists moisture but can crack in extreme cold and fade over time, while fiber cement withstands Wisconsin winters without warping and holds paint longer. Fiber cement costs more upfront but lasts 50+ years compared to vinyl's 20-30 year lifespan. Both improve energy efficiency when installed with proper insulation backing.

Downspouts that dump water near the foundation cause soil erosion, basement seepage, and foundation settling. Proper drainage extensions move water at least 6-10 feet away from the house, preventing moisture damage to basement walls and reducing hydrostatic pressure against the foundation.

Clogged gutters overflow onto fascia boards, and poor soffit ventilation traps moisture against the wood. Rot starts where water sits longest—typically behind gutter brackets and at seams. Ventilated soffit installation and gutter guards prevent the moisture accumulation that leads to wood decay.

Insurance typically covers wind-lifted shingles, hail dents visible on vents and flashing, and damage from fallen branches. An inspection documents missing shingles, creased shingles from impact, and compromised flashing. Most policies require filing within one year of the storm event.

Complete tear-off removes all existing shingles down to the roof deck, exposes any rotted decking for replacement, and installs new underlayment before shingles go down. This process reveals hidden damage that overlay installations miss and ensures proper ventilation system installation.

Composite resists rot, won't splinter, and doesn't require annual staining or sealing like wood decks. It costs more initially but eliminates maintenance expenses over time. Wood offers a traditional look and lower upfront cost but needs regular treatment to prevent moisture damage and insect issues.

Ice dams forming along roof edges, attic temperatures significantly higher than outdoor temps, and moisture stains on attic insulation indicate blocked or insufficient soffit vents. Proper ventilation requires intake at soffits and exhaust at the ridge to create continuous airflow that prevents heat and moisture buildup.

Seamless gutters are formed on-site from a single piece of material with no joints except at corners, eliminating the leak points common in sectional systems. Sectional gutters use multiple pieces connected with brackets and sealant, creating weak points where debris catches and seals eventually fail.

Material choice—vinyl versus fiber cement—creates the biggest price difference, followed by removal and disposal of old siding. Two-story homes cost more per square foot due to scaffolding requirements. Trim replacement, corner detailing, and soffit work add to base siding installation costs.

Trim at ground level wicks moisture from soil contact, and joints where trim pieces meet trap water that doesn't dry. Paint failure allows water into end grain, which absorbs moisture fastest. Even with functioning gutters, splash-back from hard surfaces and sprinkler overspray cause rot at vulnerable connection points.