Wisconsin Roof Replacement Cost Guide (2025 Update)

Introduction

In this article, I’ll give you the typical costs for installing a new roof in Wisconsin in 2025, for both residential and commercial buildings. I’ve spent years reviewing contractor bids and researching roofing costs for my clients around the country. The roof cost estimates I provide here were produced by analyzing current material prices, Wisconsin labor costs, and other relevant factors, including roofing project values from actual Wisconsin building permit data. The roof systems covered here include asphalt shingles, metal roofing, slate, tile, synthetic composite, cedar shakes and shingles, and all of the common types of low-slope commercial roofing.

Construction costs in Wisconsin are above the national average, with statewide roof replacement costs averaging about 10% to 15% more than the U.S. average. Prices tend to be higher in the Milwaukee and Madison metro areas and somewhat lower in smaller towns and rural parts of the state. (Compare with national average roof replacement costs.)

Actual roof prices will vary depending on location, roof size, roof slope, complexity, and, of course, the type of roof system installed. Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular residential roof covering in Wisconsin, but alternatives like standing seam metal, synthetic composite, and cedar shakes are also used. Commercial “flat” (low-slope) roofs typically use single-ply membranes (EPDM, TPO, and PVC), modified bitumen, or spray-applied polyurethane foam roofing systems.

On average, Wisconsin residential roof replacement prices in 2025 typically range from around $6.50 per square foot for basic asphalt shingles to around $40 per square foot for high-end copper roofing. This means a typical 1,700-square-foot pitched roof may cost between $11,000 and $68,000, depending on the type of material you choose.

Commercial roofing generally costs less per square foot, with commercial roof replacement prices ranging, on average, from around $5.50 per square foot for a ballasted EPDM overlay system with no insulation included to around $20 per square foot for a 2-ply modified bitumen roofing system with enough insulation to meet the R-30 energy code requirements for Wisconsin commercial roofs with above-deck insulation.

The tables below provide cost information for all roof types and systems.

Climate Considerations for Wisconsin Roofs

Wisconsin’s climate is classified as humid continental across the entire state, with four distinct seasons. Winters are long and cold, with significant snowfall especially in the north, while summers are generally warm to hot with periods of humidity. Annual precipitation averages between 30 and 36 inches, with thunderstorms and occasional hail common in late spring and summer. Severe winter storms and heavy snow loads are a major consideration, particularly in northern and central Wisconsin.

Heating degree days far exceed cooling degree days, and heating costs exceed cooling costs in Wisconsin. This means reflective “cool” roofing is generally less important, and darker roofing materials may actually help by absorbing solar heat in the winter instead of reflecting it. Asphalt shingles in Wisconsin are also susceptible to roof algae (Gloeocapsa magma); dark-colored shingles can help high the resulting black streaks more effectively than lighter colors.

Given these conditions, homeowners and property managers in Wisconsin should consider the following:

• Asphalt shingles are popular and affordable. Algae-resistant shingles are recommended to minimize roof discoloration in Wisconsin. Impact-resistant shingles can be worthwhile in regions prone to hail.
• Ventilation and underlayment are essential. Proper attic ventilation and code-compliant underlayments help reduce the risks of ice dams, which are common in Wisconsin’s snowy winters, as well as moisture buildup and heat stress during summer. Note that improper roof/attic ventilation can void your roof warranty.
• Metal roofing is highly reliable statewide. PVDF-coated steel and aluminum panels offer excellent long-term durability, color stability, and resistance to snow and ice sliding. Consider standing seam metal roofs with snow retention systems in the north.
• Slate, tile, and cedar can perform well when properly detailed. Adequate flashing and drainage design are important. Cedar shakes and shingles should be used only as part of a Class A fire-rated assembly, and copper or zinc strips can help limit moss and algae growth.
• Insulation and air sealing are crucial throughout the state. A well-insulated and tightly sealed attic improves energy efficiency, reduces heating costs, and helps prevent the formation of ice dams during prolonged freezing conditions.

Things to Keep in Mind

These roof cost estimates should be fairly accurate; I make an effort to update them regularly using current material prices and labor data specific to Wisconsin. Keep in mind that the costs listed below are averages, and actual costs can vary significantly depending on your specific location and the size, configuration, accessibility, and condition of your particular roof.

The residential roof cost estimates provided here are for roof replacements on roofs with a 6/12 pitch and include all standard roof components (underlayment, ice & water shield, fasteners, flashing, etc.). Steeper roofs or roofs with complex designs can increase costs by as much as 30%.

Removal of an existing commercial or residential roof typically adds between $1 and $3 per square foot. For the estimates in the tables below, $1.50 per square foot for tear-off and disposal has been included in all pricing except for the “no additional insulation” commercial roof pricing, which generally indicates a roof recover project.

Table 1: Residential Roof Costs in Wisconsin

Table 2: Commercial Roof Costs in Wisconsin

For energy code purposes, Wisconsin spans IECC Climate Zones 5 and 6, both of which require commercial roofs with insulation entirely above the deck to meet a minimum of R-30 continuous insulation (R-30ci). These requirements are established by the 2021 Wisconsin Commercial Building Code, which is based on the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) with state-specific amendments and takes effect on September 1, 2025. The minimum R-value requirements apply both to new construction and to roof replacements on existing buildings.

Always verify current R-value requirements with your local code authority, as energy codes are periodically updated.

When performing a roof recover (installing a new roof membrane over an existing one), these insulation requirements generally do not apply. Roof recover projects usually involve adding a layer of cover board over the existing roof system to provide a suitable substrate, followed by the new roof membrane. Keep in mind that roof recovery is not always permitted or advisable.

Further Reading: Roof Cost Details by Roofing Type

• Asphalt Shingle Roof Cost Guide
• Cedar Shake & Shingle Roof Cost Guide
• Copper Roof Cost Guide
• EPDM Rubber Roof Cost Guide
• Metal Roof Cost Guide
• Modified Bitumen Roof Cost Guide
• PVC Membrane Roof Cost Guide
• Shingle Roof Cost Guide
• Single-Ply Roofing Cost Guide (EPDM, PVC, TPO)
• Slate Roof Cost Guide
• Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing Cost Guide
• Standing Seam Metal Roofing Cost Guide
• Tile Roof Cost Guide
• TPO Membrane Roof Cost Guide

About the Author

Jack Gray spent 20 years as a principal roof consultant with the Moriarty Corporation, an award-winning building enclosure consultant firm founded in 1967. Mr. Gray has worked in the roofing industry for over 25 years, with training and practical experience in roof installation, roof inspection, roof safety, roof condition assessment, construction estimating, roof design & specification, quality assurance, roof maintenance & repair, and roof asset management. He was awarded the Registered Roof Observer (RRO) professional credential in 2009. He also served as an infantry paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division and has a B.A. from Cornell University.