River Falls New Roof Replacement With Class 3 Shingles Project A homeowner near River Falls needed a total roof replacement for an early 1980s home with aging shingles. The original roof suffered from heavy granule loss, algae streaking, and poor ventilation. Looking to upgrade structural protection and lower indoor summer temperatures, the client hired Blackwolf Exteriors for a complete tear-down and rebuild. Our team scheduled a full installation using Class 3 impact-resistant architectural shingles and expanded moisture protection for the River Falls, WI, home. Key Takeaways THE CHALLENGEAging 1980s roof with heavy granule loss, algae streaking, and inadequate ventilation causing high indoor heat. THE SYSTEMFull tear-off with Owens Corning Class 3 impact shingles, six feet of ice shield, and ridge venting. THE RESULTComplete exterior overhaul completed in under two days with straight course lines and proper attic ventilation. The home required a full tear-off down to the decking to resolve moisture risks and heat retention. By deploying two crews simultaneously, Blackwolf Exteriors completed the installation efficiently while upgrading the home's weather defense and curb appeal. Project Summary Client Profile: Residential Homeowner Project Location: River Falls, WI Primary Objective: Replace an original 1980s roof to eliminate algae streaking and improve energy efficiency using a trusted roofing contractor. System Installed: Owens Corning Class 3 impact-resistant architectural shingles with a full roof replacement system. Key Outcome: Reduced installation timeline to just over one day with enhanced hail protection and double-code ice shielding. Roof Inspection & Decking Preparation The existing roof had reached the end of its functional life. Over four decades of weather exposure left the shingles heavily worn, leading to significant granule loss in the gutters and dark algae streaking across the slopes. While a competitor attempted to pressure the homeowner with unfounded claims of active interior leaks, an honest evaluation confirmed the structure was sound inside. However, the decking required a complete tear-off to inspect the plywood sheathing and integrate modern ridge venting to prevent heat buildup on the upper floor. Impact Shingle & Ventilation Installation An 11-worker team tore the old roof down to the bare plywood decking, confirming that the wood remained structurally sound before installing new underlayment. The crew laid ice shield up to 6 feet on the eaves—doubling the standard building code requirement—to protect against ice dams during winter freeze-thaw cycles. "We went with a little bit lighter shingle this time because the second story would get really hot... The homeowners loved it." - (Joe, Blackwolf Exteriors) Workers snapped precise chalk lines across the felt paper to maintain straight shingle placement across every slope. Using Owens Corning Class 3 impact-resistant architectural shingles in a lighter color, the crew improved hail protection while helping lower summer attic temperatures. By combining two full crews, the team finished the installation in just over a day, avoiding potential rain delays and protecting surrounding landscaping throughout the project. Enhanced Ventilation & Long-Term Durability The new roof installation delivered immediate aesthetic and functional upgrades to the home. The lighter shingle color and integrated ridge venting restored proper airflow, keeping the upper level significantly cooler. With six feet of ice shield protection and impact-resistant materials, the structure is fully equipped to handle severe Midwest storms and winter weather. Clean site management ensured all debris was removed, leaving the yard intact and the homeowner completely satisfied. Upgrade Your River Falls Roof Today We bring hands-on project management, clear estimates, and premium materials to every home exterior project in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Need a full roof replacement or storm damage inspection in River Falls? Call our team to schedule your free estimate today. Blackwolf Exteriors2039 Michael Ln, River Falls, WI 54022Call 715-426-4008 or Schedule Online Frequently Asked Questions What are Class 3 impact-resistant shingles? Class 3 impact-resistant shingles are engineered to withstand severe hail strikes. During standard testing, they remain intact after being hit by steel balls dropped from 10 feet, offering superior weather defense compared to standard architectural shingles. Why install six feet of ice shield on eaves in River Falls, WI? Standard building codes require three feet of ice and water shield along roof eaves. Installing six feet provides double the protection against ice dams and severe freeze-thaw cycles common during Wisconsin winters. How does ridge venting help with home temperature control? Ridge venting creates a continuous exhaust outlet along the peak of the roof. Combined with intake vents, it allows heat and moisture to escape the attic naturally, keeping upper floors cooler in summer and preventing winter moisture buildup.