When it comes to safeguarding your Wisconsin home, understanding building codes is essential, especially for roofs. Given the state’s diverse climate, your roof must be built to endure both intense summer heat and heavy winter snowfall. Ensuring your roof meets local building codes not only keeps your home safe but also maximizes the structure’s durability and energy efficiency. Here, we’ll guide you through the essentials of Wisconsin’s roofing codes so you can make informed decisions when it’s time for roof repairs or replacements.
What Are Building Codes?
Before getting into Wisconsin building codes, you must understand what exactly building codes are. Building codes are official government rules that define how buildings should be constructed for a long-lasting, durable, and safe space. Basically, they are a rulebook for construction that defines all required safety measures.
What Is The Purpose Of Building Codes?
👉They protect public health and the safety of the people.
👉They define a set of minimum standards for construction that is required to build a safe and sound structure.
👉They help to ensure buildings can handle natural hazards or emergencies like fires or earthquakes.
What Do They Cover?
👉Structural safety
👉Fire protection
👉Electrical systems
👉Plumbing (clean water, proper drainage)
👉Ventilation and air quality
👉Energy efficiency
👉Accessibility for people with disabilities
Why Do Building Codes Matter?
👉Safety
These building codes help both the contractor and the homeowners prevent any accidents or disasters in the future.
👉Insurance
If you ignore the building codes during construction, it is possible that your insurance may not cover damage after any hazard.
👉Legal
If you are constructing a building without following building codes, you might need to re-construct or face a penalty for ignoring the housing codes.
👉Resale
Violating building codes can also cause difficulty if you choose to sell your house, as it automatically de-values your building.
You also need to keep in mind that these building codes aren’t the same for every state or city, so go through the housing codes of your specific area before beginning any construction. Now, let’s learn about the housing codes for the state of Wisconsin.
An Overview of Wisconsin’s Roofing Codes
Roofing codes establish standards for the construction, installation, and maintenance of roofing systems tailored to local conditions. In Wisconsin, these codes are primarily based on guidelines from the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and are carried out by local authorities.
Safety
They ensure roofs can withstand regional weather, including snow and wind.
Durability
They promote high-quality materials and methods to extend roof life.
Energy Efficiency
They encourage practices that reduce energy consumption in homes.
Important Wisconsin Building Code Requirements for Roofs
While installing, replacing, or building a home in Wisconsin, homeowners must remember to adhere to the following housing codes.
1. Roof Drainage and Pitch
Efficient drainage is essential to prevent structural damage from water accumulation. Wisconsin’s roof codes mandate the use of gutters and downspouts to direct water safely away from the foundation.
👉Gutters and Downspouts: Properly installed gutters and downspouts prevent water damage and basement flooding.
👉Roof Pitch: The minimum slope for asphalt shingles is 2:12. Steeper roofs, especially those with a slope over 12:12, require specific installation techniques to ensure longevity.
2. Corrosion-Resistant Fasteners
Considering the everchanging climatic conditions of Wisconsin, the fasteners used in roofing systems must be corrosion-resistant to withstand moisture and temperature shifts. Using high-quality, durable fasteners prevents rusting and structural failure, keeping your roof secure.
3. Ice Dam Protection
For asphalt shingle roofs with slopes up to 4:12 installed over heated areas of the home, ice dam protection is required. This includes installing ASTM D 1970-compliant materials that prevent ice buildup at the edges, which can lead to leaks and water damage.
👉Coverage: Protective material must extend 30 inches from the roof’s edge and 12 inches beyond the exterior wall to protect against ice dams.
4. Roof Underlayment
Underlayment serves as a secondary moisture barrier, providing extra leak protection. Wisconsin’s codes specify allowable underlayments, including:
- Felt Underlayment
Traditional, but must be installed correctly for effectiveness.
- Synthetic Underlayment
Offers greater moisture resistance and longevity, making it ideal for Wisconsin’s climate.
Approved Roofing Materials
Wisconsin allows several types of roofing materials, some of which are listed below, each with distinct advantages:
- Asphalt Shingles
- Metal Roofs
- Wood Shakes and Shingles
- Slate and Tile Roofs
- Synthetic Roof Products
Structural Requirements for Wisconsin Roofs
Here are some of the structural requirements that need to be remembered when installing or replacing a roof in Wisconsin.
1. Load-Bearing Standards
Roofs in Wisconsin must support both permanent loads (roofing materials and equipment) and temporary loads (such as snow and rain). SPS 321.27 requires roofs with a minimum slope of 3:12 to meet specific load-bearing criteria. Lower slopes may require additional structural support.
2. Rafters and Supports
- Notching and Fastening: Rafters should be securely notched and fastened to prevent shifting.
- Collar Ties: Required in the upper third of every third rafter pair or every 48 inches to prevent sagging.
- Thickness and Spacing: For rafter spacing over 24 inches, tongue and groove boards at least 1.5 inches thick are necessary to ensure roof stability.
3. Lateral Restraint
To prevent structural issues, Wisconsin roofing codes call for lateral restraints, like wall ties and ceiling joists, especially in high-wind or heavy-snow areas. Structural analysis may also be needed to determine the best methods for providing lateral stability.
Flashing and Ventilation Standards
Along with structural considerations, flashing and ventilation are crucial for a long-lasting roofing system and a healthy home.
1. Flashing
Flashing prevents water from seeping into vulnerable areas, such as chimneys and roof valleys.
👉Location: Flashing is needed anywhere the roof meets a junction, including chimneys, other roof openings like vents, and valleys.
👉Application: Chimney flashing should be at least 6 inches high. For chimneys over 30 inches wide, saddle flashing is required.
2. Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is very important to avoid moisture buildup in the attic, which can lead to mold and ice dams. Wisconsin building codes (SPS 322.39) require balanced intake (soffit vents) and exhaust vents (ridge or gable vents).
👉Continuous Ventilation: Recommended for uniform airflow and temperature control.
👉Special Cases: Roofs smaller than 40 square feet, such as dormers, are exempt from ventilation requirements.
3. Insulation Requirements
Under Wisconsin Code SPS 322.32, the following insulation R-values are mandated:
👉Ceilings with Attic Spaces: Minimum of R-38 for sufficient thermal resistance.
👉Joist Spaces: Minimum of R-30 in areas extending beyond exterior walls.
Permits and Inspections
Most roofing projects in Wisconsin require a building permit. You’ll need to submit your plans to the local building authority for approval, and your project will likely undergo several inspections to verify code compliance. These steps are essential for receiving a certificate of occupancy and ensuring the safety and legality of your new roof.
Hire the Experts at Prestige Roofing LLC For the Best Roofing Experience
Choosing a licensed and insured roofing contractor who understands Wisconsin’s building codes is key to a successful roofing project. A professional contractor will handle permits, follow local codes, and provide a quality warranty. Prestige Roofing LLC has years of experience roofing in Wisconsin and a reputation for excellence. Call us at (920) 791-0414 to learn more about how we can help with your roofing needs.