Key Questions to Ask a Potential Roofer, Part 1

When it comes to roof replacement, choosing the right roofer is just as important as choosing the right type of roofing system for your home — and your budget. We’ve put together a list of 20 questions you can ask a potential roofer to see if they’re the right fit for your project. In this two-part series, we’ll dive into each question with helpful information and tips. That said, we’re also providing the list of questions as a downloadable PDF so you have it handy when meeting with a roofer. Let’s get started with the questions! 1. DO YOU PROVIDE AN ACCURATE, DETAILED ESTIMATE FOR THE PROJECT? To begin, you should always receive an estimate in writing that includes a detailed, accurate description of the work being done — as well as the products and supplies being used. This is important for many reasons, including having an accurate price for the project, as well as understanding exactly what you’re getting. For instance, just because your roofer is installing GAF shingles doesn’t necessarily mean they are

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How Long Does an Asphalt Roof Last?

The short answer to this question is, it depends … There are a lot of factors that go into just how long an asphalt roof can last, so in addition to providing some longevity ranges based on asphalt roofing type, let’s also take a look at some of the major factors you’ll want to be aware of before you make any decisions on a new roofing system. THE AVERAGE LIFESPAN Looking at the category broadly, asphalt roofing can last anywhere between 15 to 50 years depending on many factors, which we’ll cover shortly. That said, here is an overview of three different types of asphalt roofing, and how long each is expected to last. We’re using GAF asphalt roofing lifespans in our examples here, as they are a very popular choice in Dane County, as well as throughout the country  … Note: Click on a shingle to enlarge. GAF THREE-TAB SHINGLES GAF’s entry-level Royal Sovereign line of shingles are the most affordable type of asphalt shingle in the GAF lineup. Although they’re considered to be

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Legacy Exteriors is Now a FORTIFIED™ Certified Service Provider for GAF Roofing

In August, Legacy Exteriors became Madison’s first FORTIFIED Certified Service Provider — and we couldn’t be more excited. Here’s how it works … A GAF FORTIFIED Roof adds an additional layer of strength to GAF’s already robust, durable asphalt roofing systems. One of the benefits of a FORTIFIED roof is the fact that it helps to further protect against severe Wisconsin weather. Plus, FORTIFIED roofing may be eligible for insurance discounts (check with your homeowner’s insurance agent to verify). Since we’re already GAF Master Elite asphalt roofing installers, this certification helps us bring even more value, quality, durability and dependability to our roofing installations. WHAT IS A FORTIFIED ROOF In short, it is a designation that has been developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) that focuses on improving roof strength. The FORTIFIED program has partnered with GAF — America’s leading asphalt roofing company — to offer “a voluntary construction and re-roofing program designed to help protect homes against severe weather. In line with our commitment to help protect your home,

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Legacy Exteriors Named to TOP 500 for 2025 by Qualified Remodeler

On August 14, 2025, we were honored to be included in Qualified Remodeler’s annual TOP 500 Remodelers list for 2025. We’re so grateful, not only to Qualified Remodelers for the award, but to each and every one of our customers, and to our dedicated staff of exterior remodeling professionals. Here’s a brief quote of what Qualified Remodeler owner and editorial director, Patrick O’Toole, had to say … “Based on Qualified Remodeler’s analysis, the TOP 500 firms tend to share several common attributes, including strong revenues, a commitment to customer service, insightful sales techniques and strong customer loyalty. These attributes helped put the firms on this list and contribute to their success.” Legacy Exteriors is ranked No. 385 on the 2025 TOP 500 list, which ranks remodelers from all across America. Here’s the official press release in case you’d like to check it out. Get In Touch Anytime … Whether you have questions about a project, or are interested in a complimentary inspection of the exterior of your home (including your roofing or siding) — with

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Home Winter Weather Prep: Inside and Out, Part 2

In Part 1 of this series, we focused on proven prep strategies to get the inside of your home ready for the Wisconsin winter. Now, in Part 2, we turn our attention to prepping the outside of your home before the winter weather sets in. The following nine tips can go a long way in protecting your home, and avoiding costly expenses, so let’s get started … 1. Be Sure to Drain Lawn Irrigation Systems If you have a lawn irrigation system, it’s important to make sure it’s drained before freezing weather sets in. Unlike the piping that leads into your home, irrigation systems aren’t buried deeply, which means they have a tendency to freeze once the temperature drops. Freezing can lead to bursting pipes, and it’s best to avoid both. Even if you are only using a standard hose, it’s a good idea to drain it completely so it doesn’t incur damage, or freeze the pipe attachment on the outside of your home. If you’re not clear on how to drain your lawn irrigation

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