Frequently Asked Questions

 

Roofing, Siding, and Gutter Services for Wisconsin Homeowners

 

We know that investing in a new roof, siding, or gutters is a serious decision. We want you to feel confident going into your project, which is why we like to give you as much information as we can upfront. We’ve put together some of the top questions we get from our friends and neighbors in Northeast Wisconsin before, during, and after working with us. 

Whether you’re planning a roofing, siding, or gutter project, we hope these questions help bring some clarity to the process.

 

Before the Project

How much experience do you have?

Combined, our team brings decades of experience to every project. As life-long Wisconsin residents, we specialize in roofing, siding, and gutters designed to withstand Wisconsin’s harsh winters, heavy snowfall, and storms.

What is your service area?

We’re proud to serve Northeast Wisconsin. Based in Appleton, Wisconsin, we serve our friends and neighbors in the surrounding Fox Cities area, including Oshkosh, Appleton, Neenah, Menasha, Wrightstown, and more. 

We love serving our friends and neighbors in the Fox Cities, but we’re happy to travel across Wisconsin for larger or specialized project

Are you licensed and insured in Wisconsin?

Yes, our experienced contractors are fully licensed and insured to protect you, your family, and your property.

Can you provide local references?

Absolutely! We’re proud to share references from satisfied Fox Cities homeowners and examples of completed projects in the Appleton area. Check out these awesome testimonials and keep an eye on our Facebook or Instagram for in-progress project photos.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes, we provide fast and free estimates to help you make informed decisions about your Appleton-area home. In many cases, we can get you an accurate quote on the same or next business day! Request a free quote today and see for yourself why we’re one of the best roofing companies in Wisconsin. 

How long does an estimate appointment take?

Depending on the size of your Fox Cities home and the scope of the project, a gutter, siding, or roof estimate can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 1 hour. We make sure to perform a thorough inspection to give you the most accurate estimate for your project.

What happens after my home is inspected?

Once the inspection is complete, we will draw up a plan that details the amount of materials needed and the estimated time commitment of the project. From there, we will discuss the overall cost and how we can maximize your budget.

What brands and materials do you work with?

At Schabel Exteriors, we’re all about providing our customers with high-quality materials built to withstand the unpredictable Wisconsin weather. We’re among the few certified Malarkey Emerald Pro and GAF contractors in Wisconsin. Both GAF and Malarkey are known for their quality, durability, and weather resistance.

Do you handle insurance claims?

Yes, we frequently assist homeowners with storm damage and accident claims. Whether the damage is from snow, hail, fallen branches, or some other unexpected incident, we’ll work with you through the process to ensure you get the repairs you deserve.

During the Project

How long will the project take?

Every home exterior project is unique, both in size, and complexity. Unpredictable Wisconsin weather, seasonality, and other issues can all impact the project timeline. 

We build extra time into each project to ensure the quality and workmanship exceed expectations. To get an accurate estimate of the length of a project, feel free to schedule your free estimate and we will do our best to inform you how long we’d need.

What steps do you take to protect my landscaping and property?

We treat your home as if it is our own and strive to leave it better than we found it. We use tarps, boards, and protective measures to ensure your property is safe from debris or damage during construction. As we near project completion, we remove leftover materials and follow a strict multi-step clean-up process to make sure that every ounce of workmanship has the Schabel Exteriors quality that you deserve.

Do I need to be home for the installation or repair?

You are always more than welcome to be home while we work on your roof, siding, or gutters. However, we know that life is busy! More often than not you are not required to be home. If there is a situation where we ask that you be home for installation, it is normally for a limited time and our experts will inform you if your presence is needed.

What should I do with my children or pets during installation?

We recommend keeping pets and children indoors or away from the site during active construction for their safety. If your animals or children are sensitive to noise, finding them temporary care with a sitter may be helpful. Let us know if you have specific concerns or requests, and we’ll accommodate as much as possible.

What happens if the weather delays the project?

We all know that Wisconsin weather can change rapidly, especially around Lake Winnebago. We closely monitor weather forecasts and work with you to adjust timelines to ensure safety and quality without cutting corners.

What do you do if unexpected issues arise?

Hidden and unexpected issues, such as rotting wood, structural problems, or pest damage, are not uncommon. If we discover any issues with your Fox Cities home that may impact your family, our team, or the project overall, we’ll consult with you immediately, provide a detailed explanation, and discuss potential solutions.

How often will you update me on progress?

We provide regular updates before, during and after the project. You can contact us anytime with questions or concerns.

After the Project

What warranties do you offer on materials and labor?

We offer industry-leading manufacturer warranties for materials and a workmanship warranty to guarantee quality roof, siding, or gutter installation. If you have any questions or issues after installation, contact us and we’ll do everything we can to make it right.

Will you perform a final inspection with me?

Absolutely! A walkthrough is built into our project timeline to ensure you’re completely satisfied. Once the crew puts the finishing touches on their masterpiece and performs their clean-up, Schabel Exteriors inspects everything to verify that the finished project receives our stamp of approval. We combine that with another clean-up so we can give you the peace of mind that we left your home better than we found it.

What should I look for after a heavy storm, ice, or snow?

Our materials are built to withstand all the ups and downs of Wisconsin weather, but it’s always good to do your own inspection following large storms. Check for missing or loose shingles, leaks, dents or clogs in your gutters, or loose and damaged siding. Contact us if you notice any issues, and we’ll inspect for damage.

Can I contact you for future repairs or other projects?

Of course! We value long-term relationships with our friends and neighbors in the Fox Valley area and are here for all your home exterior needs. Contact us anytime!

Roofing

What type of roofing do you offer?

We offer multiple roofing solutions tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of Wisconsin homeowners, including asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and flat/rubber roofs. These roof types are known for handling snow, and strong winds during the winter. Contact our team to find the right roof material for your home.

What are the benefits of a new roof for my Fox Cities home?

Great question! Many Wisconsin homeowners wait until they absolutely need a new roof due to leaks or severe damage, but there are lots of benefits to making the update or repairs earlier. A new roof can significantly improve energy efficiency in your home, offer more protection during severe weather, and significantly increase your home’s value.

Will my new roof meet local building codes?

Absolutely. All installations comply with local codes and regulations. With years of experience working in Appleton, Oshkosh, Neenah, and the surrounding areas, we are experts when it comes to various codes and nuances in each area.

What’s your process for handling storm damage repairs?

When a storm hits Northeastern Wisconsin, things can get busy fast. We do our best to offer prompt inspections, work with your insurance, and prioritize urgent repairs to protect your home and family.

What maintenance is required for the type of roof you install?

Maintenance can vary depending on the type of material used. We recommend annual inspections and clearing debris from gutters and roof valleys each spring and fall.

Siding

What type of siding do you offer?

We offer a variety of siding options that not only look great but are designed to withstand Wisconsin’s severe weather patterns and seasonal shifts. We offer lap siding, vertical siding, shake & shingle siding, soffit, fascia, and more.

What are the benefits of new siding for my Northeast Wisconsin home?

New siding has many benefits for Wisconsin homeowners. It can boost curb appeal and increase your home value. It can also help you cut down on utility costs through improved energy efficiency.

Can you match my existing siding for a partial replacement?

Yes, we’ll do our best to match the style and color of your Fox Cities home for seamless repairs.

Can you help with color and style selection to fit Wisconsin homes?

Yes, we offer design consultations to ensure your siding complements your home and others in the neighborhood.

How do you prevent moisture buildup behind siding?

We install weather barriers and ensure proper ventilation to prevent issues with moisture and ensure your siding lasts as long as possible.

How do you handle siding repairs after storm damage?

We book up fast after a storm hits the Fox Valley area. We’ll assess the damage, work with your insurance, and replace only what’s necessary to help minimize costs.

Gutters

What type of gutters works best here in Wisconsin?

It depends! We offer a variety of gutter options with materials that are durable, resist freezing, and are an excellent choice for our varying Wisconsin climate. Contact us today to learn more and discuss options for your home.

Do you offer seamless gutters?

Yes, we do! Seamless gutters are a great option for many homeowners in Oshkosh, Appleton, and the surrounding areas. They’re known to reduce leaks and require less maintenance, making them a great long-term investment.

Can you install gutter guards to prevent clogs?

Yes, we offer high-quality gutter guards that minimize debris buildup and reduce cleaning needs for homeowners during the spring and fall months.

What’s the best way to prevent ice dams in the gutters?

Ice dams are no joke and can cause serious damage. Gutter guards, proper insulation, and heat cables (which we install) can all help prevent ice dams during the cold Wisconsin winters. We use precise leveling tools during installation to guarantee proper slope and prevent ice dams and standing water.

Do you offer custom gutter solutions for unique rooflines?

Yes, we can design and install custom solutions to fit your home’s specific needs. We love working on these unique projects!

How often should gutters be cleaned in Wisconsin?

Generally, we recommend it at least twice a year—once in spring and again in late fall. Gutter guards can reduce this frequency for Fox Cities homeowners.

What’s included in a gutter inspection?

We check gutters for clogs, leaks, improper slopes, and damage to ensure your gutters are functioning perfectly.

Need Extra Assistance?

If you’re not finding the answers you’re looking for, don’t stress. Our team of experts is standing by to answer all your questions about roofing, siding, and gutters for your Fox Cities home.