Roof Waterproofing Milwaukee – Protection Against Wisconsin Weather
Stop Water Before It Becomes a Problem
Advanced waterproofing systems that protect your home from Milwaukee's toughest weather. Because shingles alone aren't enough.
Holland Exteriors provides roof waterproofing and coating services in Milwaukee and surrounding areas. Protective coatings and sealants that prevent leaks and extend roof life in harsh Wisconsin weather. Licensed, insured, BBB A+ rated. Call (414) 340-3890 for a free assessment.
The Leak That Shouldn't Have Happened
Janet Rodriguez got her roof replaced in 2018. Six months later, a January ice storm hit Milwaukee. Wind drove rain sideways under her shingles. Water poured into her living room.
Her contractor came back. "That's just how wind-driven rain works," he said. "Nothing we can do."
That's wrong. And it's exactly why waterproofing matters.
We showed Janet what should have been under those shingles: ice and water shield. A self-sealing membrane that creates a watertight barrier even when wind drives water backward.
Her contractor had skipped it. Saved maybe $800 on materials. Cost Janet $4,000 in water damage and a ceiling replacement.
We stripped her roof, installed proper waterproofing in all vulnerable areas, and put the shingles back down correctly. That was five winters ago. Three major ice storms. Zero leaks.
Waterproofing Systems We Install
Ice & Water Shield
Self-adhesive waterproof membrane for roof edges, valleys, and penetrations. Seals around nail holes automatically. Required in Wisconsin but often skipped.
Synthetic Underlayment
Superior to felt paper. Tear-resistant, waterproof, and longer-lasting. Creates a secondary barrier under your shingles.
Waterproof Coatings
Liquid-applied membranes for flat roofs and low-slope areas. Creates seamless waterproof surface. Ideal for complex roof shapes.
Deck Sealing
Waterproof barriers applied directly to roof decking before any other materials. Extra protection for vulnerable areas.
Where Waterproofing Matters Most
Roof Edges & Eaves
Ice dams form here. Water backs up under shingles. Ice and water shield prevents damage even when ice forces water backward. We install it at least 3 feet up from the edge, more on shallow slopes.
Valleys
Where two roof planes meet, water concentrates. Valleys take more water than any other part of your roof. Full ice and water shield coverage is essential.
Around Penetrations
Chimneys, vents, skylights—anywhere something comes through your roof. Waterproofing under and around flashing creates multiple layers of protection.
Low-Slope Areas
Sections with minimal pitch don't shed water quickly. Water sits longer, finding its way through small gaps. Extra waterproofing compensates for reduced slope.
Dormers & Transitions
Complex roof areas where vertical walls meet horizontal surfaces. Water changes direction here. Multiple waterproofing layers prevent leaks at these critical points.
Why Contractors Skip Waterproofing
Ice and water shield costs $150-$200 per square (100 sq ft). On a typical Milwaukee home, proper waterproofing adds $800-$1,500 to the job.
Some contractors skip it to underbid competitors. They meet minimum code (which is minimal in Milwaukee) and hope you never have a problem.
When problems happen years later, they're gone. Or they blame it on "extreme weather" or "acts of God."
We include proper waterproofing in every estimate. It's not optional. It's how roofs should be built.
Signs Your Roof Lacks Waterproofing
- Leaks during ice storms or wind-driven rain
Water forced under shingles finds no secondary barrier
- Water stains at roof edges in attic
Ice dam water backing up with no protection
- Leaks in valleys during heavy rain
High water volume overwhelming inadequate protection
- Recent roof but visible felt paper
Old-style felt instead of modern waterproofing materials
- Quote seems too low compared to others
Probably cutting costs on materials you can't see
Protect Your Home the Right Way
Don't leave waterproofing to chance. We'll assess your roof and recommend the right protection for your home.
Call for Free Assessment: (414) 340-3890