Every roofing material performs differently against Chicago winters, summer storms, and everything in between. Here’s how the types of roofs we install compare, so you can make the right call for your home.
Since 1976, we’ve installed just about every type of roof available to Chicago homeowners. That means we’re not guessing when we tell you what holds up here and what doesn’t. Below is an honest breakdown of the types of roofs we install most often, with real numbers on lifespan and where each one makes the most sense.
Modern architectural shingles are a significant step up from older 3-tab systems, offering better wind resistance and a wider range of styles at the most accessible price point of any material on this list. If your current roof is asphalt, it’s typically the most cost-effective like-for-like replacement, and it holds up well through Chicago’s freeze-thaw cycles when installed correctly.
If you’re not planning to redo your roof again in 20 years, metal is worth serious consideration. It performs strongly against snow load, ice dams, and high wind, three things Chicago winters deliver reliably, and the upfront cost evens out over time given how long it lasts.
Composite shake and slate systems are engineered to hold their color and shape for decades, with strong resistance to impact, wind, and moisture. It’s one of the most durable options available for Chicagoland homes, and a smart choice if you want the visual character of natural materials without the maintenance schedule that comes with them.
If natural texture and warmth matter more to you than low maintenance, wood shake is hard to beat for curb appeal. It performs well in the Chicagoland climate but requires more regular upkeep than composite or metal, so it tends to suit homeowners who value the aesthetic enough to invest in protecting it.
For homes with flat-roof sections, we install commercial-grade systems designed to handle Chicago’s standing water and freeze-thaw swings without the pooling and cracking that lower-grade systems develop over time.
We’ll inspect your roof and walk you through the options that make sense for your budget, your roofline, and how long you plan to stay in your home, with no pressure to upgrade.
Since 1976, we’ve installed every material on this page across thousands of Chicago-area homes.
Every installation is handled by our own licensed team, never subcontracted out.
Most roofing contractors can install GAF products. As a Factory-Certified Contractor, we can offer enhanced warranty coverage that goes well beyond what a standard installer can provide.
Our ShingleMaster Pro status means we meet CertainTeed’s highest standards for installation quality, and can back your replacement with their top-tier warranty protection.
Active, veteran, and retired military members may qualify for a $250 rebate on a new GAF Lifetime Roofing System through our participation in GAF’s Roofs for Troops program.
No surprise charges at the end of the job. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for before we start, and that number won’t change.
A roof replacement is a significant investment. We offer flexible payment plans so you can move forward without putting it off.
Get in touch for a free, no-obligation estimate. We’ll assess your roof and recommend the material that actually makes sense for your situation, not just the most expensive option.
