Roofing Materials Compared: What Performs Best in Wisconsin

Architectural (dimensional) shingles are the clear winner for 90% of Wisconsin homes. Here's why:

• Owens Corning Duration® — 130 MPH wind rating, SureNail® Technology, patented design that resists blow-offs
• GAF Timberline HDZ — 130 MPH wind rating, StrikeZone nailing technology, LayerLock design
• CertainTeed Landmark — 110 MPH wind rating, wide color selection, good mid-range option

All three brands offer 25-50 year manufacturer warranties. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, DT Exteriors also provides a Lifetime Workmanship Warranty — the industry's strongest combined warranty package.

Metal roofing is the fastest-growing segment in Wisconsin, especially standing seam:

Advantages in Wisconsin

• Snow shedding — Snow slides off metal, reducing ice dam risk and structural load
• No freeze-thaw degradation — Metal doesn't absorb water, so freeze-thaw has zero effect
• 50-70+ year lifespan — Most metal roofs outlast the homeowner
• Energy efficiency — Reflective coatings reduce summer cooling costs by 10-25%
• Hail resistance — Standing seam metal has excellent impact resistance

Considerations

• Higher upfront cost — 2-3x the cost of asphalt, but lower lifetime cost
• Snow guards needed — Prevents dangerous snow slides over doorways and walkways
• Specialized installation — Not every contractor installs metal properly. Expansion/contraction must be accounted for.

For a detailed comparison, see our Asphalt vs Metal Roofing guide.