Top Metal Roofing in Waukesha, Wisconsin Ranked

Choosing the right roofing material for your Waukesha home is a significant decision, directly impacting your property's protection, energy efficiency, and curb appeal for decades. Given the region's distinct four-season climate-with its heavy snow, hail, and dramatic temperature swings-a metal roof stands out as a particularly resilient and long-lasting option. Engineered to withstand the specific challenges of Wisconsin weather, modern metal roofing systems offer a lifespan of 50-70 years, far exceeding traditional asphalt shingles. This guide will explore why metal is a smart choice for local homeowners, the styles available, what to expect regarding performance and investment, and key considerations for your project.

Smart Roofing & Sheet Metal Company

4985 S Sunny Slope Rd, New Berlin, WI 53151

Smart Roofing & Sheet Metal Company is a family-owned roofing contractor serving Milwaukee, WI, and the surrounding areas. With 70 years of experience, they specialize in residential and commercial roofing, including installation, replacement, and repair of asphalt shingles, rubber, and metal roofs. They are certified installers for major manufacturers like CertainTeed, GAF, and Owens Corning, and offer standing seam metal roofing panels manufactured on-site to custom specifications. The company also provides roof inspections, certifications, gutter installation, and maintenance services. Their work includes complete tear-offs to identify underlying issues such as decking or ventilation problems. Smart Roofing backs their craftsmanship with a 10-year workmanship warranty and strong manufacturer warranties.

5.0

237 Reviews

Mighty Dog Roofing of Milwaukee Metro

W220N1500 Springdale Rd, Waukesha, WI 53186

Mighty Dog Roofing of Milwaukee Metro provides a range of roofing and exterior services in Milwaukee, WI. Their offerings include roof installation, replacement, and repair, as well as gutter, window, siding, and skylight services. They serve both residential and commercial properties, focusing on roofing systems suited to Wisconsin's climate, such as asphalt shingles and metal panels. The company uses modern inspection technology to assess roofs and offers detailed evaluations to help clients make informed decisions. As part of a national franchise, they combine local expertise with premium materials to meet building codes and industry standards. Their process includes thorough inspections, clear communication, and careful installation with attention to safety and warranty compliance.

5.0

148 Reviews

Four Leaf Roofing & Windows

2875 S Moorland Rd, New Berlin, WI 53151

Four Leaf Roofing & Windows is a roofing contractor based in Milwaukee, WI, offering services such as roof installation, replacement, repair, leak repair, roof inspection, and certification. They specialize in various roofing materials including asphalt shingles, cedar shingles, slate tiles, and metal roofing with standing seam options. The company emphasizes quality workmanship with a lifetime workmanship warranty, thorough 50-point inspections, and annual roof assessments to maintain roof condition. They are fully licensed and insured, equipped with specialized tools, and follow strict safety protocols to ensure compliance with building codes and permit requirements.

4.9

150 Reviews

Infinity Exteriors

16600 W Cleveland Ave, New Berlin, WI 53151

Infinity Exteriors is an exterior remodeling company serving Milwaukee, WI, and the surrounding areas. Since 1997, they have completed over 16,500 projects, specializing in roofing, siding, windows, doors, and gutters. Their roofing services include installation, replacement, and repair using materials such as asphalt, wood, slate, and metal, including standing seam metal roofing. They also provide roof inspections and certifications. Infinity Exteriors uses high-quality products from well-known brands and offers a lifetime workmanship warranty on their installations.

4.8

2.3k Reviews

Great Lakes Roofing Corporation

W194N11055 Kleinmann Dr, Germantown, WI 53022

Great Lakes Roofing Corporation is a family-owned commercial roofing contractor based near Milwaukee, WI, serving Wisconsin and surrounding Midwest states since 1983. They provide a range of roofing services including installation, replacement, repairs, inspections, and certifications for various commercial buildings. Their expertise includes specialized capabilities such as metal roofing fabrication, skylight installation, and safety system integration. The company offers 24/7 availability for commercial roof repairs to address urgent needs promptly.

4.9

98 Reviews

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Why Metal Roofing Excels in Waukesha's Climate

Waukesha's weather presents a unique set of challenges for any building exterior. With average temperatures ranging from 11°F in winter to 82°F in summer, moderate annual snowfall (around 37 inches), and the potential for high winds and hail, your roof needs to be exceptionally durable. ^{1 2} Metal roofing is specifically suited to handle these conditions.

• Snow and Ice Management: One of the most significant advantages of a metal roof in Wisconsin is its ability to shed snow and ice quickly. The slick, non-porous surface allows snow to slide off before it can accumulate and form dangerous ice dams at the eaves. Ice dams are a common cause of water damage with traditional shingle roofs, as melting snow refreezes, creating a barrier that traps water underneath. ^{3 4}
• Resistance to Freeze-Thaw Cycles: The constant expansion and contraction caused by freezing and thawing can cause traditional roofing materials to crack and degrade prematurely. High-quality metal roofing systems, especially standing seam designs with concealed fasteners, are engineered to accommodate this thermal movement without compromising their weather-tight seal or structural integrity. ^{5 6}
• Superior Hail and Wind Resistance: Metal roofs offer exceptional impact resistance. Many systems are rated Class 4, the highest rating for hail resistance, meaning they can withstand severe hailstorms without sustaining functional damage. ⁷ Their interlocking panel systems and secure fastening methods also make them highly resistant to wind uplift, a crucial feature during the strong storms that can sweep through the region. ⁸

Popular Metal Roofing Styles for Waukesha Homes

Today's metal roofing is far from the industrial-looking corrugated panels of the past. Homeowners can choose from a variety of profiles and finishes that complement any architectural style, from historic to contemporary.

• Standing Seam: This is the premium choice for residential applications. Panels feature raised seams that interlock vertically, with fasteners concealed beneath these seams. This design provides a clean, sleek appearance and offers the best protection against weather infiltration, making it ideal for managing Waukesha's climate. The concealed fasteners also eliminate potential leak points and allow for natural thermal expansion and contraction. ^{9 10}
• Exposed Fastener Panels (Corrugated or R-Panel): Often a more economical option, these panels are secured with screws that penetrate the face of the metal. While perfectly suitable for many agricultural, workshop, or residential applications, the exposed fasteners may require more maintenance over time as gaskets can degrade. They are a popular choice for outbuildings or homes seeking a rustic aesthetic. ^{11 12}
• Metal Shingles and Tiles: For homeowners who love the look of traditional materials but want the durability of metal, stamped metal shingles are an excellent solution. These panels are formed to mimic the dimensional texture of wood shakes, the elegance of slate, or the charm of clay tiles. They provide all the performance benefits of a metal roof while seamlessly blending with the neighborhood's character. ^{13 14}

Performance, Maintenance, and Common Concerns

Understanding how a metal roof performs daily and over the long term is key to making an informed decision.

Addressing the Noise Myth A common concern is that metal roofs are noisy during rain or hail. In reality, when installed correctly over a solid roof deck with proper underlayment and attic insulation, the sound level inside the home is comparable to that of an asphalt shingle roof. The "loud drumming" sound is typically only associated with metal installed over open purlins, as in a barn or pole building. For a residential home, the noise is generally not noticeable in living areas. ^{15 16 17}

Maintenance Requirements Metal roofing is remarkably low-maintenance. Routine care primarily involves:

• Periodic visual inspections, especially after severe weather events, to check for any debris, loose trim, or damaged sealant.
• Keeping the roof surface and gutters clear of excessive leaf litter and branches from overhanging trees.
• Occasionally rinsing the roof with water to remove dirt or organic growth, which is more about aesthetics than necessity. ^{18 5}

This minimal upkeep stands in stark contrast to the periodic replacement cycle of asphalt shingles.

Understanding the Investment in a Metal Roof

The initial cost of a metal roof is higher than that of a basic asphalt shingle roof. However, it's essential to view this as a long-term investment. In the Waukesha area, the average installed cost for a residential metal roof typically ranges from $7 to $29 per square foot, with the final price heavily dependent on the style, material (steel, aluminum, copper), and complexity of your roof. ¹⁹

For a typical home, total project costs often range from approximately $8,500 to $17,000, with an average around $12,700. ¹⁹ On a per-square-foot basis for a standard installation, homeowners can expect averages often falling between $10.00 - $14.00. ²⁰

Factors influencing cost include:

• Material and Style: Standing seam systems are generally more expensive than exposed fastener panels. Premium metals like copper or zinc command a higher price than painted steel or aluminum.
• Roof Complexity: Steep pitches, multiple valleys, dormers, skylights, and chimneys increase labor and material time.
• Existing Roof: Whether the old roofing material needs to be removed (tear-off) or can be covered over.

While the upfront investment is significant, the longevity of a metal roof-often lasting two to three times longer than asphalt-combined with its minimal maintenance and potential energy savings, results in a lower lifetime cost. ^{21 22 23} It also adds to the resale value and curb appeal of your home.

Choosing a Qualified Installer in Waukesha

The performance and lifespan of your metal roof are profoundly dependent on the quality of its installation. Proper installation is non-negotiable for ensuring the system handles thermal movement, sheds water effectively, and remains secure in high winds.

When evaluating metal roofing contractors in the Waukesha area, look for:

• Specific Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record of installing the specific type of metal roof you desire.
• Licensing and Insurance: Verify they carry proper Wisconsin licensing and full liability and workers' compensation insurance.
• Manufacturer Certification: Many top metal roofing manufacturers offer training and certification programs for installers. A certified installer is trained on the specific requirements of that product system.
• Detailed Quotes and Warranties: Request a detailed, written estimate that outlines materials (including underlayment and fasteners), labor, and warranty coverage for both materials and workmanship.
• Local References and Portfolio: Ask for references from recent local projects and view photos of their completed work.

Frequently asked questions

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