Roofing FAQ
in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, and Menomonie

A local roofing contractor understands Wisconsin's climate, local building codes, and common roofing challenges such as snow loads, ice dams, hail, and high winds. Local companies are also available if you ever need warranty service, repairs, or future inspections.

The cost of a new asphalt roof depends on several factors, including your home's size, roof design, shingle selection, and any repairs needed to the roof deck. A professional inspection and estimate provide the most accurate pricing for your specific home.

Yes. Many asphalt roofs can be repaired if the damage is isolated. However, if the roof has widespread deterioration, multiple leaks, or significant storm damage, replacing the roof may be more cost-effective and provide better long-term protection.

Common signs include:

• Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
• Granules collecting in gutters
• Water stains on ceilings or in the attic
• Frequent leaks
• Storm or hail damage
• A roof that is 20 years old or older

A professional roof inspection can determine whether repairs are sufficient or if replacement is the better long-term investment.

Asphalt shingles are one of the most affordable and versatile roofing materials available. They offer excellent protection against Wisconsin weather, come in a wide variety of colors and styles, and can even mimic the appearance of cedar shake or slate. They also provide dependable performance with relatively low maintenance.

The lifespan of an asphalt roof depends on the quality of the shingles, installation, ventilation, and weather exposure. Wisconsin's snow, ice, wind, and summer heat make professional installation especially important. Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20 to 30 years, while premium architectural shingles can last even longer with proper maintenance. Rock & Tait offers a 50-year non-prorated warranty. 

Yes. Modern asphalt shingles are designed to withstand heavy snow, freezing temperatures, ice, wind, and changing seasonal conditions. When installed correctly with proper ventilation and underlayment, they provide reliable protection throughout Wisconsin's harsh winters.

We install trusted roofing products from leading manufacturers including GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. These manufacturers offer a wide selection of styles, colors, and warranty options to fit different homes and budgets.

Yes. Most asphalt shingles are manufactured with fiberglass and can often be recycled at the end of their service life rather than being sent directly to the dump.

Today's asphalt shingles are available with reflective technology that helps reduce heat absorption. Combined with proper attic insulation and ventilation, an asphalt roof can contribute to improved energy efficiency and indoor comfort throughout the year.

Most residential asphalt roof replacements can be completed in one to two days, depending on the size of the home, roof complexity, and weather conditions. Larger or more complex projects may require additional time.

A GAF Master Elite® contractor has met strict standards for licensing, insurance, reputation, and ongoing professional training. Only a small percentage of roofing contractors earn this certification, allowing homeowners access to enhanced warranty options and factory-backed installation standards.

No. When installed over proper roof decking and insulation, a residential steel roof is typically no louder than an asphalt roof during rain or hail. Modern installation systems include layers that help absorb sound and reduce noise inside the home.

Absolutely. Steel roofs are designed to withstand heavy snow, ice, hail, strong winds, and dramatic temperature changes. They also shed snow more easily than many traditional roofing materials, helping reduce excessive snow buildup during Wisconsin winters.

For many homeowners, yes. Although steel roofing typically costs more upfront than asphalt shingles, it lasts significantly longer, requires less maintenance, improves energy efficiency, and offers excellent protection against Wisconsin's harsh weather. Over the life of your home, a steel roof can provide outstanding long-term value.

A professionally installed steel roof can last 40 to 70 years or more, depending on the product, installation quality, and maintenance. Many steel roofing systems are backed by warranties of up to 50 years, making them one of the longest-lasting roofing options available.

Modern steel roofing is manufactured with protective coatings such as Galvalume® and durable paint finishes that resist rust and corrosion. With proper installation and normal maintenance, a quality steel roof will provide decades of reliable protection

Yes. Today's steel roofing comes in styles that closely resemble asphalt shingles, cedar shake, slate, and clay tile. Homeowners can enjoy the appearance of traditional roofing materials while benefiting from the durability and longevity of steel.

The cost of a steel roof depends on your home's size, roof complexity, product selection, and installation requirements. While steel roofing has a higher initial investment than asphalt shingles, its longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs often make it a smart long-term investment.

Yes. Steel roofing is one of the most sustainable roofing options available. Many steel roofing products are manufactured using recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. In some situations, steel roofing can also be installed over an existing roof, reducing construction waste.

In some cases, yes. Depending on your existing roof, local building codes, and the condition of the roof deck, a steel roof may be installed over one layer of existing shingles. A professional inspection is the best way to determine whether your home qualifies.

Yes. Steel roofing reflects more solar heat than many conventional roofing materials, helping reduce heat absorption during the summer. Combined with proper attic insulation and ventilation, a steel roof can improve your home's energy efficiency and indoor comfort.

We install high-quality steel roofing products from trusted manufacturers, including Unified Steel®, Midwest Manufacturing®, and Hixwood Metal Roofing. These product lines offer a variety of colors, profiles, and styles to complement virtually any home.

Choosing a local roofing contractor means working with a team that understands Wisconsin's climate, local building codes, and the challenges that snow, ice, hail, and wind create for roofing systems. An experienced local contractor can recommend the best steel roofing solution for your home and provide dependable service long after the installation is complete.

A local contractor understands the heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and winter weather common throughout the Chippewa Valley. Experienced professionals can safely remove existing ice dams using steam while identifying the insulation and ventilation improvements needed to help prevent them from returning in future winters.

Insurance coverage depends on your individual policy and the cause of the damage. Many homeowners insurance policies cover interior water damage resulting from sudden ice dam formation, but they may not cover damage caused by deferred maintenance. It's best to contact your insurance provider for details about your coverage.

Ice dams can lead to costly repairs if left untreated. Water trapped behind the dam can damage shingles, roof decking, insulation, drywall, paint, flooring, gutters, and even create conditions for mold growth inside your home.

Common signs of an ice dam include:

• Large icicles hanging from your gutters
• Thick ridges of ice along the roof edge
• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Water dripping into the attic
• Peeling paint or damaged drywall near exterior walls

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to address the problem before water damage becomes more extensive.

Ice dams are typically caused by heat escaping from your attic. The warm roof surface melts snow, which flows toward the colder roof edge where it refreezes. Poor attic insulation, inadequate ventilation, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles all contribute to ice dam formation.

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of a roof, preventing melting snow from draining properly. As water backs up behind the ice dam, it can seep beneath your shingles and into your home, causing damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, and framing.

Professional steam removal is the safest and most effective method. Low-pressure steam melts the ice without damaging shingles or gutters, unlike chisels, hammers, or pressure washers that can permanently damage your roofing system.

Small amounts of roof snow can often be removed safely from the ground using a roof rake. However, climbing onto an icy roof or attempting to chip away ice with tools is dangerous and can damage your roof. If an ice dam is causing leaks or has grown significantly, professional removal is the safest option.

Yes. Proper attic insulation helps keep warm air inside your living space instead of escaping into the attic. Combined with adequate ventilation, insulation is one of the most effective ways to prevent recurring ice dams while improving your home's energy efficiency.

The best way to prevent ice dams is to keep your roof surface at a consistent temperature. This usually involves:

• Improving attic insulation
• Sealing air leaks into the attic
• Installing proper attic ventilation
• Removing excessive snow with a roof rake after major snowfalls

Together, these improvements help reduce melting and refreezing along the roof edge.

Removing the ice dam addresses the immediate issue, but it does not eliminate the cause. If your attic continues to lose heat, ice dams are likely to return during future winters. Improving attic insulation and ventilation is the most effective long-term solution.

As soon as possible. Once water begins backing up under your shingles, every freeze-thaw cycle increases the risk of water intrusion and structural damage. Prompt removal helps minimize costly interior repairs.

A local roofing contractor understands the challenges Wisconsin weather places on roofing systems, including heavy snow, ice, hail, wind, and seasonal temperature changes. Local experience helps ensure repairs are completed correctly and are designed to withstand the region's climate. Choosing a local contractor also means dependable service if you need future inspections, maintenance, or additional repairs.

Not all roof damage is visible from the surface. Water can travel beneath shingles and damage the underlayment or roof decking before leaks become noticeable inside your home. A professional inspection identifies the true source of the problem so repairs address the underlying issue rather than just the symptoms. 

The cost of roof repair depends on the type of damage, the roofing material, the size of the repair area, and whether any underlying roof decking needs to be replaced. A professional inspection is the best way to determine the scope of work and provide an accurate estimate.

Yes. Even a small leak can allow water to penetrate the roofing system, damaging the roof decking, insulation, drywall, and structural framing. Prompt repairs help prevent more expensive repairs later.

Some of the most common warning signs include:

• Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Roof leaks during rain or snow
• Damaged flashing around chimneys or vents
• Loose or missing ridge capsGranules collecting in gutters
• Sagging areas on the roof

If you notice any of these issues, it's best to have your roof inspected before the damage becomes more extensive.

Many roofing problems can be repaired if the damage is limited to a small area. Missing shingles, minor leaks, damaged flashing, and isolated storm damage are often good candidates for repair. However, if your roof has widespread damage, multiple leaks, or is nearing the end of its lifespan, a roof replacement may be the better long-term solution.

In many cases, yes. If the surrounding shingles and roof decking are still in good condition, replacing a few missing or damaged shingles can restore your roof's protection and extend its lifespan.

Most residential roof repairs can be completed in just a few hours or within a single day, depending on the extent of the damage and weather conditions. Larger or more complex repairs may require additional time.

That depends on the age of your roof and the extent of the storm damage. If the damage is isolated and your roof is otherwise in good condition, repairs are often the most cost-effective solution. If your roof has widespread deterioration or recurring leaks, replacing the roof may provide better long-term value.

It depends on the cause of the damage and your insurance policy. If it's storm damage, caused by hail, wind, or fallen trees is often covered, while repairs resulting from normal wear and aging typically are not. Your roofing contractor can help document the storm damage for your insurance claim if needed.

Yes. Rock & Tait is a professional roofing company that can repair both asphalt shingle and steel roofing systems. The repair method depends on the roofing material, the extent of the damage, and the condition of the existing roof.

Yes. Hail, high winds, falling branches, and heavy rain can damage shingles, flashing, and other roofing components. Even if you don't see obvious storm damage from the ground, a professional inspection can identify hidden issues before they lead to leaks.

Choosing the right roofing contractor means choosing a company with experience, training, and a commitment to doing the job right. Rock & Tait has served homeowners throughout the Eau Claire area since 2002 and takes a whole-home approach by evaluating your roofing system, attic insulation, and ventilation-not just the shingles. Our experienced, licensed, insured, and certified team is dedicated to providing quality workmanship, honest recommendations, and dependable service from the initial inspection through the completed project.

Proper attic ventilation helps regulate attic temperatures and moisture levels. Good ventilation can extend the life of your roof, improve energy efficiency, reduce the risk of ice dams, and help prevent moisture-related damage inside your attic.

GAF Master Elite® Certification is awarded to roofing contractors who meet strict standards for licensing, insurance, reputation, and ongoing professional training. Only a small percentage of roofing contractors earn this certification, giving homeowners added confidence in the quality of workmanship and access to enhanced warranty options.

Yes. A reputable roofing contractor should carry the appropriate licensing, liability insurance, and workers' compensation coverage to protect both homeowners and employees throughout the roofing project.

A local roofing contractor understands Wisconsin's climate, building codes, and the roofing challenges caused by heavy snow, ice, hail, and high winds. Local companies are also easier to reach if you need warranty service, future repairs, or additional inspections.

When choosing a roofing contractor, look for a company that is licensed, insured, experienced, and has a strong reputation in your community. Ask for references, read customer reviews, verify certifications, and make sure the contractor provides a detailed written estimate before any work begins.

Yes. Comparing estimates from multiple qualified contractors helps you understand the scope of work, materials being used, warranty coverage, and overall value. Be cautious of unusually low bids, as they may indicate lower-quality materials or shortcuts during installation.

A professional roofing estimate should clearly outline:

• The scope of work
• Roofing materials being installed
• Labor costs
• Cleanup and debris removal
• Project timeline
• Warranty information
• Payment schedule

A detailed estimate helps prevent misunderstandings once the project begins.

We provide a full range of residential roofing services, including:

• Roof inspections
• Roof repairs
• Asphalt shingle roofing
• Steel roofing
• Roof replacementIce dam removal
• Storm damage assessments

Our goal is to recommend the solution that's best for your home-not simply replace your roof if repairs are a better option.

Yes. If your roof has been damaged by hail or wind, we can inspect the damage, document our findings, and work with your insurance adjuster to help ensure all covered damage is properly evaluated before repairs begin.

Yes. Your roof is part of a complete roofing system. During an inspection, we evaluate the roofing materials along with attic insulation and ventilation to identify the root cause of roofing problems and recommend solutions that improve your home's long-term performance.

Experience matters when choosing a roofing contractor. Rock & Tait has been installing residential and commercial roofs throughout the Eau Claire area since 2002 and has completed thousands of roofing projects across the Chippewa Valley.