At some point in your life, you had to replace your home roof—and if you haven’t yet, you probably will! If the work was done poorly, you likely don’t want to hire the same roofing company. Moreover, you must repeat the steps repeatedly: research information, find a trustworthy company, calculate expenses for your home, and more. Not to mention, it can be a frustrating endeavor if you just bought a property and it’s the first time you’re doing such a major project. But don’t worry; if you’ve found this blog, you no longer have to search. 

Each property is different, right? With that in mind, each project’s costs will vary depending on several factors. So, the first thing you must consider is the material your roofing contractors will use and its quality. Long story short, if you choose something high-quality, your roof—and therefore home—will last longer. Okay, you’ve decided what you want to use, so the second thing you might ask yourself is; what if there’s something else that I have to replace or install so that my roof is functional? 

You will want to hire reputable roofing contractors that will get the replacing done right. This final step is crucial because experts will ensure your roof lasts long, whereas inexperienced roofers may do more harm than good to your roof and, in turn, your home. 

As a home or business owner, knowing a rough price range is always better than groping around in the dark. We can provide you with an average cost estimate, but in the end, if you want to know the exact total cost of replacing a new roof, you’ll have to contact knowledgeable and experienced roofing contractors to take a look.

With that out of the way, let’s explore what influences the average cost of a new roof in Chicago, IL! 

Choose a Suitable Roof Installation for Your Area

In Chicago, there are often short fluctuations in temperature, humidity, cloudiness, and wind direction, typical of continental climates with cold winters and warm summers. The first thing you want to research is the roof material that best suits your area, needs and preferences. 

There are many options on the market you can choose from for your roof installation in Chicago, so let’s see what options you have. 

For your home roof installation or repair, you can choose between the following:

• Asphalt shingles (fiber glass & organic),
• Cedar wood,
• Metal, 
• Rubber, 
• Tar & gravel,
• Spray foam, and
• Clay or concrete tile.

Each of these has its own advantages and disadvantages, but no matter which option you choose, make sure it’s high-quality and not something cheap that won’t last long. 

There are also different types of commercial systems:

• Single-ply roofing,
• TPO, EPDM, PVC roofing,
• Flat roofing, and
• Metal roofing.

Let’s break down the residential and commercial materials costs, so make sure you keep reading!

Cost of Installing a New Roof for Residential Buildings

Many factors will affect the final cost of a new roof restoration or repair for your home, but first, let’s explain the main components of a residential roof so that you know what your roofing contractors are talking about when the project starts. 

• Decking (or sheathing) – Made from plywood that aims to provide a foundation for roofing, siding, or flooring. This helps to strengthen your home’s system internally and externally. 

• Underlayment – The main task of underlayments is to provide extra protection in case the roofing leaks.

• Flashing – Pieces of metal used to prevent water infiltration around vent pipes, chimneys, walls, dormers or valleys. Furthermore, when you install flashing, water is directed away from the roof interior.

• Ventilation – With proper ventilation, air can freely pass, so it’s good to have a system to reduce the humidity and condensation that might build in your home.

• Insulation – The primary purpose is to retain heat during winter and cool during summer, thus reducing heating and cooling costs. 

• Material – Asphalt shingles, metal, etc.

Average Cost of Residential Roof Materials

Asphalt shingles are known as the most affordable, and they are vastly used throughout the U.S. If your neighbor has installed them and you’ve discussed the price with them, it doesn’t mean you’ll pay the same as they did. 

On average, most residential roofs will cost between $5,000 and $11,000 for the material alone. This is not a fixed number; other factors will affect the final cost. For example, there are many different manufacturers on the market and each has their own market price for their products. 

Don’t forget that installing these will also be added to the final tally. Professional roofing contractors will give you an estimate and decide how complex replacing the roof will be. If your roofing contractor has a lot of knowledge and experience, the price may also increase—but you’ll have peace of mind knowing the job is done right!

Cost of Installing a New Roof for Commercial Buildings

Whether it’s for restoration or repair purposes, commercial roofs are more complex to install because they require a different approach to ensure durability and longevity.

• Decking – The story regarding decking is the same as with residential roofs; it’s a base layer that will provide a stable foundation for the rest of the roof components.

• Insulation – Insulation aims to regulate the temperature inside the building to improve energy efficiency.

• Membrane – The membrane is a layer that provides waterproofing and protects the roof from severe weather damage. A commercial roof membrane is commonly made from EPDM, TPO, or PVC. 

• Drainage systems and ventilation – The drainage system helps prevent water buildup and damage. In addition, proper ventilation will allow air to circulate and prevent moisture from occurring. 

• Flashing  – Waterproof material used to seal joints and seams in roof systems, primarily used in areas around vents, chimneys, and other roof penetrations to prevent water from seeping in.

New Roof Cost in Chicago per Square Ft

Flat roofs range between $4 and $30 per square ft, while metal roofs can range between $4 and $40, depending on what you want installed. Furthermore, TPO, EPDM and PVC roofs can cost between $4 and $12 per square ft. 

These are some of the average rates for these types of roofs, but as mentioned, it can all depend on several factors. In addition, make sure you hire a knowledgeable commercial roofing company because, after all, they are experts in this field. 

How Long Should a Roof Last in Chicago?

Much like the price point, a roof lifespan depends on what you went with. Asphalt shingles, for example, can last up to 25-30 years with proper maintenance. However, something sturdier, such as metal or slate, can last anywhere from 40 to 70+ years! Factors that can influence roof durability include your area’s climate conditions, how often you get professional inspections and maintenance done, and the quality of the product your contractors worked with. 

When it comes to a new roof or needing to repair something, being stingy doesn’t pay off; the higher grade the material and service provided, the longer you get to enjoy your roof!

Get a New Roof With the Help of Revived Exteriors

Whether you need residential or commercial services, Revived Exteriors will gladly help you with any of your roofing problems and needs. We boast over 30 years of experience, many satisfied customers, and the best quality materials on the market so that you can rest assured your roof will last. In addition we also offer gutter replacement, solar, siding, and window installation services, and so much more. 

Contact Revived Exteriors—the best roofing contractors in Chicago, IL—today!