Flat and low-slope roof leaks
Ponding, seams and parapet flashing
Skylights reach a point where reflashing is not enough — a rotted frame, a failed sealed unit with moisture between the panes, or a unit old enough that compatible flashing is no longer made. Replacement is roof work as much as window work, because the flashing kit and its relationship to the surrounding courses is what keeps water out. A new unit fitted with old or improvised flashing leaks exactly like the one it replaced.
Dane County has a winter long enough and cold enough that ice damming, not storm damage, is the dominant cause of roof leaks. The mechanism is heat loss rather than weather: warm air escaping into the attic melts snow on the upper roof, the meltwater runs down and refreezes over the cold overhang, and the resulting ridge of ice backs water up beneath the shingle courses until it finds a way in. The roof itself is usually in perfect condition. Repeated through a Dane County winter, freeze-thaw also works every flashing joint progressively looser, and spring brings hail and straight-line wind on top. The reason this matters is that fixing an ice dam leak by working on the shingles does not work — the problem is insulation and ventilation, and that is a different job.
On some units yes, where the sealed unit is a serviceable part and the frame is sound. On older or sealed-frame models the whole unit is the replacement item.
The courses around the opening have to be lifted and reinstated regardless, so it is worth checking the surrounding area while access is there. On an older roof it is often sensible to do both together.
Ponding, seams and parapet flashing
The metal that seals every joint
The metal at the roof edge
Missing, cracked or lifted shingles
Remaining-life letter for a sale or insurer
Scheduled checks instead of emergencies
You will get a straight answer on whether Dane County needs someone out today or whether it can wait — before anyone quotes you for anything.
Call (706) 696-1888