Pros and Cons of Architectural Shingles in Wauwatosa’s Cold Climate
Learn More About Architectural Shingles With Hucke Exterior
If you live in Wauwatosa, you know that winter here is no joke. Between snowstorms, freezing rain, and weeks of subzero temps, your roof works extra hard to protect your home. That’s why so many homeowners ask us whether architectural shingles are a smart choice for our Midwest winters.
At Hucke Exteriors, we’ve worked on all types of
roofs in Wauwatosa in all seasons. Let’s break down the real pros and cons of architectural shingles when it comes to cold climates, so you can feel confident about what’s over your head.
Pros and Cons of Architectural Shingles
What Are Architectural Shingles, Anyway?
Architectural shingles—sometimes called dimensional or laminated shingles—are a step up from basic three-tab asphalt shingles. They’re made with multiple layers of asphalt and fiberglass, giving them a thicker, more textured look. Many homeowners love them because they mimic the appearance of wood shakes or slate without the high price tag.
The Advantages: Why They Work Well in Winter
- Better Durability Against Harsh Weather: Architectural shingles hold up better under snow, ice, and wind than traditional three-tab shingles. Their layered construction makes them heavier and more resistant to strong winter gusts that can blow off weaker shingles.
- Longer Lifespan: In a place like Wauwatosa, roofs deal with a lot of freeze-thaw cycles that can wear down basic shingles. Architectural shingles often last 25 to 30 years or more when installed properly and maintained well—sometimes twice as long as standard shingles.
- Improved Insulation: Thicker shingles add a bit of extra protection. While the shingles alone don’t insulate your attic, their better seal and overlap help prevent wind-driven snow or cold air from sneaking in under loose edges.
- Boost in Home Value and Appearance: The layered look of architectural shingles adds dimension and can boost your home’s curb appeal—a plus if you ever plan to sell. Many Wauwatosa homeowners like the fact that these shingles can mimic the look of wood shakes or slate without the price tag.
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The Downsides: Things to Keep in Mind
- Cold-Weather Installation Challenges: One of the biggest drawbacks of any asphalt shingle in cold weather is how they handle during installation. Below 40 degrees, shingles can become brittle and prone to cracking. Sealant strips may not stick properly until temperatures warm up. This can lead to shingles lifting in heavy winds if they’re not hand-sealed. An experienced roofing team knows how to handle this—by storing shingles in a warm space before installation and using extra adhesive when needed—but it can take longer and cost a bit more.
- Heavier Than Basic Shingles: Because they’re thicker, architectural shingles weigh more than standard three-tab shingles. This isn’t a problem for most homes but can matter if your roof structure is older or needs repairs. A professional roofer should check your roof deck to be sure it’s in good shape to handle the extra weight.
- Cost Considerations: Architectural shingles do cost more up front than basic shingles—sometimes 20 to 30 percent more for materials alone. But for many homeowners, the extra years of service and better protection in Wisconsin winters make up for the higher price over time.
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Tips to Get the Best Results
If you decide on architectural shingles, make sure you work with a roofing company that knows how to install them properly in cold weather. A good contractor will:
- Store shingles in a warm area before installation.
- Hand-seal shingles if needed to make sure they stick.
- Use the right tools to avoid cracking or overdriving nails.
Proper ventilation and attic insulation are also key. Even the best shingles can’t do all the work alone—your attic needs good airflow to keep ice dams from forming.
Are Architectural Shingles Worth It?
When you weigh the pros and cons, architectural shingles are a strong choice for Wauwatosa’s tough winters. They give you more durability, better weather resistance, and a longer lifespan—plus they look great on almost any home style.
They do cost more than basic shingles, and winter installation takes extra care, but the added protection often pays off when the snow starts piling up and the wind starts howling.
Trust Hucke Exteriors to Help You Choose the Right Roof for Your Wauwatosa Home
When you live in Wauwatosa, winter isn’t just a season—it’s a challenge for your home. Between snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, your roof plays a critical role in protecting what matters most: your family, your memories, and your peace of mind. That’s why Hucke Exteriors is here to help you make an informed choice about one of the most popular roofing options for cold climates—architectural shingles.
As a locally owned roofing company in Wauwatosa, we’ve worked on hundreds of Wauwatosa homes, guiding homeowners through the pros and cons of architectural shingles in our Midwest weather. These dimensional shingles aren’t just about curb appeal. Their thicker, layered design offers real benefits in terms of durability, insulation, and lifespan—especially in places where winter can be rough.
Architectural shingles hold up better under wind, snow, and ice compared to basic three-tab shingles. Many Wauwatosa homeowners choose them for their added protection, longer service life, and improved home value. That said, they do come with a higher upfront cost and require careful installation—especially when temperatures drop below freezing.
At Hucke Exteriors, we understand these trade-offs. Our team of professional roofers takes extra care during cold-weather installations, storing shingles in warm spaces, hand-sealing where needed, and making sure your roof is built to handle both the weight of architectural shingles and Wauwatosa’s winter extremes. We’ll also check your attic ventilation and insulation to help prevent ice dams and other winter headaches.
When you’re ready to weigh your options, we’re here to walk you through every step—roof inspection, material recommendations, and a clear explanation of what’s best for your home and budget. With Hucke Exteriors, you can feel confident knowing you’ve made a smart, lasting choice for the roof over your head.
