The Pros and Cons of Different Roofing Materials – A Guide by Rooster Roofing
Choosing the right roofing material for your home in Janesville, WI, or nearby areas like Beloit, Evansville, Madison, or Lake Geneva, can be tough. Your roof protects your home from Wisconsin’s harsh winters, heavy rains, and summer storms. Picking the best material depends on cost, durability, and looks.
At Rooster Roofing, we help homeowners in 53545 (Janesville), 53516 (Beloit), 53536 (Edgerton), and surrounding areas make the best choice. Whether you need a roof replacement in Milton, a repair in Monroe, or new gutters in Delavan, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s compare the three most popular roofing materials:
- Asphalt Shingles
- Metal Roofing
- Wood Shakes
We’ll break down the pros, cons, cost, and lifespan of each so you can make an informed decision.
1. Asphalt Shingles – Affordable & Popular
Best for: Homeowners in Janesville, WI, looking for a budget-friendly, low-maintenance option.
Pros:
✅ Low Cost – Cheaper than metal or wood ($3-$5 per sq. ft.)
✅ Easy Installation – Faster to install, great for emergency roof repairs
✅ Variety of Styles – Architectural shingles look like wood or slate
✅ Good Lifespan – Lasts 15-30 years (depending on quality)
✅ Weather-Resistant – Handles Wisconsin snow and wind well
Cons:
❌ Shorter Lifespan – Needs replacement sooner than metal or slate
❌ Less Eco-Friendly – Ends up in landfills
❌ Can Crack in Extreme Cold – Harsh winters in Brodhead or Evansville may wear them faster
Best For:
- Residential roofing in Madison, Lake Geneva, or Janesville
- Homeowners who want a quick, affordable roof replacement
2. Metal Roofing – Durable & Energy-Efficient
Best for: Wisconsin homes needing long-lasting, weatherproof roofs.
Pros:
✅ Super Durable – Lasts 40-70 years (great for Wisconsin’s snow & hail)
✅ Energy Efficient – Reflects heat, saving on cooling costs
✅ Fire & Wind Resistant – Handles high winds in Monroe or Edgerton
✅ Low Maintenance – No rotting or insect damage
✅ Eco-Friendly – Often made from recycled metal
Cons:
❌ Higher Upfront Cost – ($7-$14 per sq. ft.)
❌ Noise in Heavy Rain – Needs proper insulation
❌ Denting Possible – Large hail in Beloit or Janesville can cause dings
Best For:
- Commercial roofing in Madison or Janesville
- Farmhouses in Evansville or Brodhead
- Homeowners wanting a lifetime roof
3. Wood Shakes – Natural & Beautiful
Best for: Historic homes or cabins in Lake Geneva or Delavan.
Pros:
✅ Aesthetic Appeal – Gives a rustic, high-end look
✅ Good Insulation – Keeps homes warm in winter
✅ Eco-Friendly – Made from cedar or redwood
Cons:
❌ Expensive – ($6-$10 per sq. ft.)
❌ High Maintenance – Needs sealing to prevent rot (common in humid WI summers)
❌ Fire Risk – Not ideal unless treated with fire-resistant coatings
❌ Shorter Lifespan – Lasts 20-30 years (less than metal)
Best For:
- Luxury homes in Madison or Janesville
- Cabins in Monroe or Lake Geneva
Signs You Need a Roof Repair or Replacement
No matter what material you choose, roofs don’t last forever. Here are warning signs you need a roof repair or replacement in Janesville, WI:
🔹 Missing or Curled Shingles – Common after strong Wisconsin storms
🔹 Leaks or Water Stains – Check attics after heavy rain
🔹 Granules in Gutters – Means shingles are wearing out
🔹 Sagging Roof – Could mean structural damage
🔹 Age – If your roof is over 20 years old, it’s time for an inspection
If you see these signs, call Rooster Roofing for a free inspection!
Roofing Services We Offer in Janesville & Surrounding Areas
1. Residential Roofing
We install and repair roofs for homes in Janesville (53545), Beloit (53511), and Edgerton (53534).
2. Commercial Roofing
Flat or low-slope roofs for businesses in Madison and Monroe.
3. Roof Repair
Fast fixes for storm damage, leaks, or missing shingles.
4. Roof Installation
New asphalt, metal, or wood shake roofs installed professionally.
5. Roof Maintenance
Regular check-ups help avoid costly repairs later.
6. Roof Replacement
If your roof is old or damaged, we’ll replace it quickly & affordably.
7. Gutter Installation
Proper gutters protect your roof from water damage.
8. Siding Installation
Boost curb appeal with durable, weather-resistant siding.
Final Thoughts: Which Roofing Material is Best for You?
- Budget-Friendly? → Asphalt Shingles
- Long-Lasting? → Metal Roofing
- Natural Look? → Wood Shakes
At Rooster Roofing, we help homeowners in Janesville, Evansville, Brodhead, and beyond choose the best roofing material for their needs.
📞 Need a free estimate? Call us today! We serve Janesville, Beloit, Madison, Lake Geneva, and all surrounding areas.
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense—make sure it’s strong! 🏠🔨
