Wisconsin Building Codes For Roofing: What You Need To Know

Knowing the building codes set by your town or city is important before starting new construction on your home or building. With so many building code variations, knowing where to start can be difficult. 

At Kickapoo Roofing, we always aim to provide our community with the best roofing insights and services. In this blog post, we will provide a brief overview of Wisconsin’s building codes so you can have a better understanding of the guidelines you’ll be expected to follow.

What Are The Wisconsin Building Codes For Roofing?

When it comes to roofing projects in Wisconsin, it’s crucial to understand the building codes that govern these constructions. Wisconsin’s building codes for roofing are a combination of state regulations and local ordinances. 

We’ll break down the key aspects of these codes to help you get a better understanding.

#1 State Regulations

The Wisconsin Administrative Code is the foundation of the state’s building regulations. It includes the Uniform Dwelling Code, which has specific provisions for roofing. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

1. Roof Sheathing (Decking)

The thickness of your decking will depend on the space between rafters. For example, if your rafters are 24 inches apart or less, you’ll need at least 5/8 inch thick solid roof decking material.

2. Ice Dam Protection

In Wisconsin’s cold climate, ice dam protection is crucial. If your roof slope is 4:12 or less, and extends over heated areas within the building, you’ll need metal, or other forms of ice dam protection installed 30 inches up the roof’s slope from the edge.

3. Flashing Requirements

Proper flashing is essential to prevent leaks. The Wisconsin building code requires flashing at chimney-roof junctions, along valleys, and around roof openings.

4. Re-Roofing Rules

You can’t add new roofing materials over old ones if the existing roof is severely damaged by water, or deteriorated. This is part of the Wisconsin building codes to ensure structural integrity.

#2 Local Regulations

While state regulations provide a framework, local laws can add more specific requirements. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Building Permits

Requirements vary by municipality. In most cases, you won’t need a permit for simple repairs or replacements using the same materials. However, if you’re making structural changes or using different materials, you’ll likely need a permit.

2. Local Code Variations

Specific areas have additional requirements beyond Wisconsin commercial and residential codes, so it’s always best to check with your local building department.

#3 Material Standards Are Important For Your Roof’s Quality & Performance

The Wisconsin building codes for roofing also specify material standards. For example, fiberglass asphalt shingles must meet certain national standards to ensure they can withstand the weather in Wisconsin.

Tips On How To Understand Local Building Codes 

Many of these codes are technical, and understanding them can be quite difficult. However, it’s important to have a thorough understanding of these codes, as they’re in place to make sure your roof is safe, durable, and works in good condition.

Here are some tips to help you understand or confirm these building codes for roofing in Wisconsin:

1. Consult Local Authorities 

As mentioned before, when you start your roofing project you should reach out to your local building department since it’s possible that your area may or may not have some additional requirements along with the state of Wisconsin’s building codes. 

2. Hire Professional Roofers

Experienced roofers, like our team at Kickapoo Roofing, are familiar with the Wisconsin building codes for roofing. Our professionals have a deep understanding of these building codes, along with the important nuances for different municipalities.

3. Consider Credible Sources For Further Information

Here are some reliable sources that you can consider to learn more about the guidelines you need to follow for your roofing project:

• Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services
• Local Building Department
• Roofing Contractors Associations/ Best-Rated Roofing Contractors in Your Area

4. Consider Energy Efficiency

While not specific to roofing, the Wisconsin building code and other regulations often include requirements involving energy-efficient materials. This may impact your roofing choices, especially in terms of insulation.

5. Stay Updated

Building codes can change frequently. It’s important to make sure that you’re working with the most current version of Wisconsin’s building codes.

How Do Building Codes Differ For Residential And Commercial Roofing?

Here’s how Wisconsin’s building codes affect residential and commercial properties differently:

Residential Roofing Codes in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin building code for residential roofing primarily falls under the Uniform Dwelling Code. This code sets standards for single-family, and two-family dwellings. 

1. Structural Requirements: Residential roofs must be designed to handle Wisconsin’s snow loads and wind speeds. The code specifies minimum roof deck thickness based on rafter spacing.

2. Materials: While homeowners have flexibility in choosing roofing materials, all products must meet specific standards for fire resistance and durability.

3. Ice Dam Protection: With Wisconsin’s harsh winters, ice dam protection is mandatory for roof slopes of 4:12 or fewer, that extend over heated spaces of the building.

4. Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation is required to prevent moisture buildup and extend the roof’s life.

Commercial Roofing Codes in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin commercial building code is typically more complex due to the bigger scale and diverse purposes of commercial structures. Some of the important points to note before starting your commercial roofing project include:

1. Load-Bearing Capacity: Commercial roofs often need to support heavier loads from HVAC equipment, solar panels, or even rooftop gardens. The Wisconsin building codes for roofing in commercial settings specify stricter requirements for structural support.

2.  Fire Resistance: Commercial buildings generally require higher fire-resistance ratings for roofing materials, especially in densely populated areas.

3.  Energy Efficiency: The state of Wisconsin’s building codes often include stricter energy efficiency requirements for commercial roofs, including insulation R-values and reflective coatings.

4. Drainage Systems: Given the typically flat design of commercial roofs, the codes mandate specific drainage solutions to prevent water pooling.

You might also like: How Long Does It Take To Replace A Roof?

Call Kickapoo Roofing For Roof Installation In La Crosse, Wisconsin

We are one of the best-rated roofing contractors in Wisconsin, and our professionals only aim to serve homeowners in our community with quality results. 
If you are looking for roof installation in La Crosse, WI, or the surrounding areas, then we are here to assist you! Trusting us as your reliable roofing contractor means ensuring that you get the results you want. To learn more about our services or to get a custom quote, feel free to reach out to us at (608) 352-8688.