Appleton, Wisconsin is rapidly emerging as a beacon of economic prosperity in the Midwest, with a forward-thinking approach that blends innovation with community spirit. This vibrant city is witnessing an impressive transformation, driven by a dynamic mix of industries and an entrepreneurial ethos that is fostering job creation and economic stability.
Central to Appleton’s economic development is its thriving technology sector. Local businesses are attracting top-tier talent by leveraging advanced technologies and fostering collaboration between companies and educational
institutions. This synergy has accelerated innovation, making Appleton one of the most attractive destinations for tech startups and established firms alike.
Moreover, Apple's robust investment in infrastructure and smart urban planning has not gone unnoticed. Entrepreneurs and developers find Appleton’s supportive business environment ideal for launching new ventures. The city’s commitment to
Appleton, Wisconsin
4 | HelloAppleton, Wisconsin • Winter Issue
Hello Appleton, Wisconsin • Winter Issue |5
Appleton, Wisconsin
green energy and sustainability further enhances its appeal, ensuring growth is balanced with environmental stewardship.
The community is also actively engaged in shaping the local economy. From bustling farmers' markets to creative arts and
cultural festivals, residents and visitors alike are invigorated by the city’s vibrant local scene. Appleton is showing that its growth is not just about numbers, but about...
Appleton, Wisconsin: A Hub of Innovative Growth and Opportunity
Appleton, Wisconsin is rapidly emerging as a beacon of economic prosperity in the Midwest, with a forward-thinking approach that blends innovation with community spirit. This vibrant city is witnessing an impressive transformation, driven by a dynamic mix of industries and an entrepreneurial ethos that is fostering job creation and economic stability.
Central to Appleton’s economic development is its thriving technology sector. Local businesses are attracting top-tier talent by leveraging advanced technologies and fostering collaboration between companies and educational institutions. This synergy has accelerated innovation, making Appleton one of the most attractive destinations for tech startups and established firms alike.
Moreover, Apple's robust investment in infrastructure and smart urban planning has not gone unnoticed. Entrepreneurs and developers find Appleton’s supportive business environment ideal for launching new ventures. The city’s commitment to green energy and sustainability further enhances its appeal, ensuring growth is balanced with environmental stewardship.
The community is also actively engaged in shaping the local economy. From bustling farmers' markets to creative arts and cultural festivals, residents and visitors alike are invigorated by the city’s vibrant local scene. Appleton is showing that its growth is not just about numbers, but about fostering a community that thrives together.
In Appleton, Wisconsin, economic development is more than just a buzzword—it’s a way of life, powered by innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision for a brighter future.
FEATURED STORY
Why Winter is the Most Dangerous Season for Wisconsin Roofs (And How to Prepare)
by Eric Schultz
Wisconsin winters create some of the hardest conditions for commercial and industrial roofs, especially flat roofing systems that already deal with slow drainage and heavy exposure. Businesses across the state know how quickly a mild snowfall can turn into a serious load, yet many owners do not realize how much stress that snow adds over a long season. When cold temperatures lock moisture in place, the weight on a flat roof continues to rise, and that pressure can reveal weaknesses that went unnoticed during warmer months. This is why winter is often the most dangerous time
6 | HelloAppleton, Wisconsin • Winter Issue
Eric Schultz
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Eric Schultz is the President of Borsche Roofing Professionals in Hortonville, Wisconsin. With decades of experience in commercial and industrial roofing, Eric leads projects focused on safety, quality, and long-term performance. His hands-on approach and engineering-driven solutions have made him a trusted voice in Wisconsin’s roofing industry.
for commercial roofs in Wisconsin and why preparation begins long before the first freeze.Snow load is usually the first concern, because it builds slowly and hides structural problems. A roof that handled last year’s weather may not perform the same after minor wear, small membrane separations, or clogged drains take hold. Snow compacts, melts, and refreezes several times during a typical Wisconsin winter, and each cycle increases density and weight. Even a well-engineered roof can face strain when snow accumulates faster than it melts. When water pushes toward seams or small gaps, leaks often appear suddenly,
Hello Appleton, Wisconsin • Winter Issue |7
Why Winter is the Most Dangerous Season for Wisconsin Roofs (And How to Prepare)
Wisconsin winters create some of the hardest conditions for commercial and industrial roofs, especially flat roofing systems that already deal with slow drainage and heavy exposure. Businesses across the state know how quickly a mild snowfall can turn into a serious load, yet many owners do not realize how much stress that snow adds over a long season. When cold temperatures lock moisture in place, the weight on a flat roof continues to rise, and that pressure can reveal weaknesses that went unnoticed during warmer months. This is why winter is often the most dangerous time for commercial roofs in Wisconsin and why preparation begins long before the first freeze.
Snow load is usually the first concern, because it builds slowly and hides structural problems. A roof that handled last year’s weather may not perform the same after minor wear, small membrane separations, or clogged drains take hold. Snow compacts, melts, and refreezes several times during a typical Wisconsin winter, and each cycle increases density and weight. Even a well-engineered roof can face strain when snow accumulates faster than it melts. When water pushes toward seams or small gaps, leaks often appear suddenly, and by then the damage is already spreading inside the building.
Ice dams are another reason winter becomes so challenging for commercial roofs with flat or low-slope designs. Warm air from inside the building rises and escapes through weak insulation, which melts the snow layer above it. As that runoff reaches colder edges near drains or overhangs, it freezes into thick ridges that block water movement. Water begins to pool behind the ice dam, then looks for a path into the roof assembly. Ice dams are especially destructive because they lift and separate the membrane in ways that are not always visible from the ground. Once the membrane is breached, freezing temperatures allow water to expand inside the structure, creating cracks that grow larger as the season continues.
Blocked or frozen drains make this cycle even worse. Many Wisconsin businesses overlook the importance of fall maintenance for drain bowls, scuppers, and internal lines that carry water off the roof. Leaves, dirt, and small branches trap moisture and slow drainage just enough for ice to form during the first cold snap. When temperatures drop quickly, the trapped water freezes solid and expands inside the drain opening. This often forces water to pool across wide areas of the roof, which adds even more weight to the structure. A drainage issue that might have been easy to clear in October becomes a significant winter hazard by December.
A professional pre-winter inspection is one of the most effective steps a business can take to reduce risk. Roofing contractors look for signs of membrane lifting, worn flashing, soft insulation, and minor punctures that might lead to leaks under heavy snow. They also check whether drains and gutters are open and whether rooftop equipment has secure seals. Even small repairs made before winter help the roof shed water more efficiently once the weather turns harsh. Inspections also allow owners to understand roof conditions before insurance claims become complicated by winter storms.
Preparing for winter also means clearing debris before the freeze. Flat commercial roofs often collect loose gravel, branches, and old sealant from previous repairs. When this material freezes into place, it prevents water from moving toward drains and can puncture the membrane under foot traffic. Removing debris in the fall allows the roof surface to remain even and flexible during cold months, which helps prevent cracking as temperatures rise and fall. This simple step also improves drainage, which becomes critical during snowmelt periods.
Many Wisconsin businesses also plan winter preparation by reviewing their commercial roof maintenance schedule. Regular visits throughout the year help identify issues early, but the fall inspection is the most important because it directly affects how the roof performs under winter stress. Maintenance records help owners track minor issues that could grow into structural risks. When a contractor knows the roof history, repairs become more efficient, and the roof system stays stable during severe weather.
Winter roof problems often develop quietly, with little warning, until leaks appear inside the building. By preparing early, owners can greatly reduce damage and avoid costly repairs that interrupt operations. A well-maintained commercial roof handles snow, ice, and freezing temperatures more effectively because it begins the season with a clean surface, open drainage, and a tight membrane.
Ice dams are especiallydestructive because theylift and separatethe membrane in waysthat are not alwaysvisible from the ground.
and by then the damage is already spreading inside the building.Ice dams are another reason winter becomes so challenging for commercial roofs with flat or low-slope designs. Warm air from inside the building rises and escapes through weak insulation, which melts the snow layer above it. As that runoff reaches colder edges near drains or overhangs, it freezes into thick ridges that block water movement. Water begins to pool behind the ice dam, then looks for a path into th...
8 | HelloAppleton, Wisconsin • Winter Issue
Celebrating Diversity and Culture in Apple...
Appleton, Wisconsin, shines as a beacon of diversity and culture in the heartland of America. This thriving city harmoniously blends its rich heritage with a kaleidoscope of modern influences, creating an inclusive and welcoming
environment for all. Appleton's community is a charming mosaic, drawing people and traditions from around the globe, resulting in a cultural landscape that is as colorful as it is dynamic.
The city hosts a delightful array of cultural festivals throughout the year, each more vibrant than the last. Events like the Appleton International Film Festival and Octoberfest transform the streets into jubilant celebrations, where art, music,
A Vibrant Tapestry
Hello Appleton, Wisconsin • Winter Issue |9
and gastronomy from different cultures are showcased and celebrated. These events not only entertain but also educate, providing residents and visitors alike with invaluable opportunities to understand and appreciate the diversity surrounding them.
Local eateries and shops further enrich the cultural experience in Appleton. From authentic global cuisine at a cozy downtown restaurant to the eclectic offerings of the Saturday
Farmer’s Market, the flavors of Appleton reflect its diverse community.
Appleton, with its spirit of unity and appreciation for cultural diversity, stands as a testament to how a community can thrive through understanding and celebration of differences, making it a true gem in Wisconsin's crown.
A Vibrant Tapestry
A Vibrant Tapestry: Celebrating Diversity and Culture in Appleton, Wisconsin
Appleton, Wisconsin, shines as a beacon of diversity and culture in the heartland of America. This thriving city harmoniously blends its rich heritage with a kaleidoscope of modern influences, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. Appleton's community is a charming mosaic, drawing people and traditions from around the globe, resulting in a cultural landscape that is as colorful as it is dynamic.
The city hosts a delightful array of cultural festivals throughout the year, each more vibrant than the last. Events like the Appleton International Film Festival and Octoberfest transform the streets into jubilant celebrations, where art, music, and gastronomy from different cultures are showcased and celebrated. These events not only entertain but also educate, providing residents and visitors alike with invaluable opportunities to understand and appreciate the diversity surrounding them.
Local eateries and shops further enrich the cultural experience in Appleton. From authentic global cuisine at a cozy downtown restaurant to the eclectic offerings of the Saturday Farmer’s Market, the flavors of Appleton reflect its diverse community.
Appleton, with its spirit of unity and appreciation for cultural diversity, stands as a testament to how a community can thrive through understanding and celebration of differences, making it a true gem in Wisconsin's crown.
