Chicago is famous for more than deep-dish pizza. The Green Building Adoption Index has already ranked the city the “greenest place to work” in the US, with over 71 percent of office buildings being certified green.
That commitment to ecologically conscious choices translates to commercial roofing trends, too. Why? It’s simple; what’s good for the Earth is also good for your bottom line, making eco-friendly roofing choices a win-win situation.
Whether you’re gearing up for a commercial roof replacement and considering your options, or you’re just curious about the latest industry news, let’s take a look at the hottest commercial
roofing trends in Chicago.

1. Cool Roofing Technologies Are Picking Up Steam

Chicago can get pretty hot and humid during the summer, and businesses are looking for ways to protect their assets and keep their employees comfortable while saving money on energy bills. Energy-efficient roofing systems are key players in that story. Cool roofing technologies, which bounce sunlight off your building to prevent it from heating up, can cut your cooling costs by as much as 11 to 27 percent.
The single-ply roofing market is booming, and more and more Chicago business owners opt for cool roofing membranes like white EPDM and TPO. What’s more, these roofing insulation advances also make it easier to keep your building cool in summer and warm in winter.

2. Storm-Resistant Roofing Is a Top Concern

You can’t get very far without encountering storms, hail, and snow in Chicago. It’s only normal that Chicago’s commercial building owners are after strong, durable roofing designs that can make it through extreme weather in one piece.

EPDM, TPO, and metal roofing shine in that department, too, giving them a double advantage as excellent roofing materials for Illinois. Other options to consider when you’re looking for roofing for the Illinois climate (with all its turbulence) include PVC, built-up roofing, and SPF spray roofs.

3. Chicago Is Increasingly Interested in Green Roofing Solutions

So, Chicago wants to hold onto its green crown — and that doesn’t just mean choosing durable and energy-efficient roofing materials. Sustainable commercial roofs, with a low carbon footprint, are also made with materials with recyclable potential. They’re either made from recycled components or can be recycled when your roof finally reaches the end of its lifespan.

Roofing options with a high percentage of recycled or recyclable materials include recycled rubber roofing, TPO, EPDM, PVC, and metal roofing. Keep in mind, however, that not all roofing manufacturers are equally eco-friendly — and ask us for advice if recycled roofing is high on your priority list!

4. Solar Roofing for Businesses Are Becoming More Popular

Solar shingles are among the hottest eco-friendly roofing trends all over the country, and Chicago is no exception. The solar roofs currently on the market are designed for residential pitched roofs. Of course, any building used for commercial purposes is a commercial building — so some of you will have the flexibility of installing solar shingles on your business roofs.

As exciting as that is, these advanced roofing materials aren’t yet suited to flat commercial roofs. Do you have a large-scale flat commercial roof? While flat solar roofing systems might emerge in the future, you’ll have to go with traditional solar panels atop your flat commercial roof for now.

5. Commercial Roofing Maintenance Is Becoming a Priority

Not all commercial roofing trends rely on technological advances. Some simply depend on increased awareness. Every commercial roof will eventually have to be replaced, but the care you
pour into it greatly impacts how long your roof will serve you.

In part because of the stormy weather, Chicago business owners are increasingly committed to doing what it takes to make their roofs go the extra mile. Twice-yearly commercial roof
inspections (during spring and fall) are one of the most important steps any business can take to make a roof last longer. Taking care of roof repair needs as soon as they arise is another.

Chicago’s Commercial Roofing Trends Point to a Greener, More Sustainable Future: Are You In?

The most exciting Illinois roofing innovations aren’t fueled by a single factor, but by a combination. Chicago’s business owners don’t just want energy-efficient roofing. They don’t just want
sustainable, eco-friendly roofing systems. They don’t just want a commercial roof that lasts, even when the next storm hits. They want it all.

Are you on board? The Revived Exteriors team would be excited to answer any of your questions about innovative, green, and cost-efficient commercial roofing in Chicago, IL. If you’re getting ready to have your roof replaced, we can arrange to drive over to your location for a free roof inspection and consultation. Let’s make sure you’re not just a follower, but also a trendsetter — and that your commercial roof is future-proof!

Sixty-nine percent of Americans are eager to embrace a greener life, and when you think about it, it’s easy to see why. The same climate-friendly choices that help you contribute to an environmentally-conscious world often save you money while making you more comfortable.

Did you know that the roofing materials you select for your home or commercial building can make a huge difference in all of those areas? If the clock is ticking on your aging roof and you’re starting to explore your options, keeping the environment in mind makes sense. Plus, your wallet may thank you, too.

TPO roofing isn’t new, but it’s sharply risen in popularity in recent years. Anyone with a flat or low-sloped roof benefits from considering this roofing material, and this guide explains why.

What Does TPO Stand For? What Is TPO Roofing?

Wondering what makes TPO roofing stand out? Let’s start with the basic facts:

• The commercial roofing world is filled with three-letter acronyms, but there’s no need to Google “TPO meaning.” TPO stands for “thermoplastic olefin.” “Thermoplastic” means the roofing material is pliable while heated, but solid while hot, and olefin is a sturdy, weather-resistant synthetic material.
• TPO is one of many single-ply membrane roofing materials on the market today. In the hands of experienced professionals, it’s easy to install and extremely durable.
• This special thermoplastic roofing membrane is usually installed on low-sloped or flat commercial roofs. However, it is possible to install TPO roofing on irregularly shaped or pitched roofs, and TPO is very suitable for residential homes with flat modern roofs, too.

The first TPO roof was installed in 1987, and since that time, it’s only become more popular. That’s because TPO roofs are relatively affordable, amazingly sturdy, and supremely weather resistant — but the benefits don’t end there!

A Look at the Environmental Benefits of TPO Roofing

Are you hoping to take your modern home or commercial building into the future with a greener roofing choice? TPO offers four compelling advantages. Let’s take a closer look!

The TPO Membrane Is Energy Efficient

TPO roofing material actually comes in a range of colors (including terracotta, light gray, purple, and moss green) these days, but white TPO membranes remain the most popular choice. These roofs are highly reflective, contributing to an energy-efficient, cool building with lower HVAC costs. As we all know, reduced energy use doesn’t just mean lower expenses, but also a greener home or business.

TPO Roofing Is Fully Recyclable

TPO is a kind of synthetic rubber. When your TPO roof finally needs replacing after 15, 25, or more years, all its components can be recycled and turned into new TPO roofs. Contrast this with roofing options like BUR, modified bitumen, or asphalt shingles, which often wind up in landfills, and it’s easy to see why TPO roofing is a green innovation.

TPO Roofs Are Durable

Your TPO roof’s lifespan depends on a multitude of factors, including the maintenance you put into it, the local climate, and weather conditions — but some of the earliest TPO roofs to ever have been installed are still going strong. Most well-maintained TPO roofs last between 15 and 25 years, but many outlive their expected lifespan. Durable roofs aren’t just good for your pocket, but also for the environment.

What Other Advantages Do TPO Roofs Have?

Besides environmental benefits, TPO roofs have several other important benefits. A TPO roofing installation is quick and easy in experienced hands, for example (although, if you Google how to install TPO roofing, you might discover that the process is a little tricky for beginners!). TPO roofs are versatile and suitable for large-scale commercial buildings, and they’re supremely weather-resistant. What’s more, TPO roofing is visually clean and beautiful.

Have Questions About TPO Roofing?

So, you’re looking into green roofing options for your Illinois commercial building or modern home? The Revived Exteriors team would be happy to answer any questions you may have — and to offer you a free consultation when you’re ready.

As a leading roofing company in Chicago, IL, we’re proud to be part of the green roofing revolution. If TPO roofing is the right choice for your building, our skilled roofers are on hand to install your new roof with care and efficiency.

As a business owner in the Windy City, you understand how important a robust, durable roof is better than anyone. Chicago’s famously unpredictable weather patterns mean your roof has to withstand everything from scorching hot summers to snowy winters, and from extreme humidity to severe storms.

Rubber roofing material ticks all the right boxes if you seek a durable, cost-effective, low-maintenance commercial roofing solution. This guide walks you through your options and takes a look at the installation process.

Exploring Rubber Roofing: A Look at the Most Popular Types

Most rubber roofing materials come in large rolls or sheets. This makes the roof easy to install, cost-effective, supremely durable, and weather-resistant. However, businesses with steeper roofs can also consider rubber shingles.

Let’s explore some of the most common rubber roofing systems and examine their pros and cons.

EPDM Roofing

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) roofing is the oldest type of rubber roof. The rubber roofing rolls make installing EPDM roofs fast and straightforward, but the benefits don’t end there. EPDM roofs are among the most affordable and durable commercial roofing solutions.

Most EPDM roofing rolls are black, but manufacturers now offer gray and white alternatives for businesses prioritizing energy efficiency.

TPO Roofing

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is a newer kind of rubber membrane roof. It is an excellent option for businesses looking for lightweight roofing with reflective properties that increase the building’s energy efficiency rating. Because TPO roofs are heat-welded during installation, they withstand heavy rainfall exceptionally well.

PVC Roofing

PVC roofing is famous for its flexibility and extreme water resistance, but it has another fascinating property that makes it especially appealing to some business owners — PVC is fire-resistant. As with TPO roofing, its seams are heat-welded to shield you from the elements.

Modified Bitumen Roofing

While not technically a rubber roof, modified bitumen is another popular choice in the commercial roofing sector. With multiple layers, these roofing systems are long-lasting and easy to repair where needed. Modified bitumen roofs are reinforced and feature a granulated surface.

Rubber Shingle

While commercial rubber roofs are typically installed as sheets or rolls, rubber shingles have also entered the market. Rubber shingles are an excellent and visually-appealing alternative to membrane roofs for businesses with steeply-sloped roofs.

How Is Rubber Roofing Installed?

Are you curious about how to install rubber roof? Experienced roofing contractors following the best practices turn the process into an art form. Here’s how we do it.

If you hire Revived Exteriors to install your commercial rubber roof, we’ll kick the installation process off with a thorough inspection. After measuring your roof’s surface area to check how much rubber roofing material we need, we’ll strip your old roofing material and lay the foundation for a fresh start.

Our experienced professional roofers will look over the substrate and prepare the surface for its new roof — starting with cleaning up and making repairs.

Where necessary, we’ll install underlayment first. Next up, your roofing team installs the rubber membranes — an exciting process that involves:

• Moving the large rolls or sheets to their correct positions.
• Securing your rubber roof with adhesives or mechanical fasteners.
• Seaming the rubber roofing sheets for a watertight result you can rely on.

Roof penetrations and edges require more attention, and our experienced roofing team will work hard to ensure your entire commercial roof is sealed tight.

After applying sealant and working on your flashing, the Revived Exteriors team gives your new roof a final once-over to make sure everything’s in order. Finally, we’ll clean up after ourselves so you can enjoy your new commercial roof without any stray debris.

Is Rubber Roofing Right for Your Chicago Business?

Traditional rubber membrane roofing is an excellent option for commercial buildings with flat or low-sloped roofs. Retail buildings, warehouses, industrial facilities, office buildings, hotels, malls, educational institutions, and hospitals can all benefit from rubber roofs. Talk about versatility!

Want more good news? Rubber roofing may still be the best solution for your business if your building has a steeper roof. Rubber shingles merge the durability of commercial roofing solutions with the appeal of architectural shingles for a cost-effective approach to roofing.

Exploring Commercial Roof Replacement?

Are you looking for a reliable and experienced commercial roofing company in Chicago, IL, to replace your commercial roof? Do you have questions about a commercial roof repair cost? The Revived Exteriors team has you covered!

We specialize in commercial roofs, and our roofers can offer guidance to help you pick the best rubber roofing solution for your needs. When you’re ready, we’ll flawlessly install your commercial roof.

Call us today to get the ball rolling on your commercial roof replacement project!

Chicago is a busy city with a lot going on, and businesses need roofs that are reliable, durable, and affordable. Metal roofing is such a solution that can offer a great return on investment.

Wondering if metal roofs suit Chicago weather? The answer is yes!

Three Different Types of Commercial Metal Roofing Systems Business Owners Can Install in Chicago

There are many different types of commercial roofs to choose from, so you have to understand what makes each one unique. The final decision will depend on what’s important for you and your property. When it comes to commercial metal roofing, let’s take a look at some of the best options.

Standing Seam Metal Roofs

A standing seam metal roof looks nice and modern thanks to the vertical seams that come together. These roofs are ideal for their toughness, and can take a beating from high winds or storms. They may cost more upfront than other materials, but they’ll last a long time with almost no maintenance.

Corrugated Metal Roofs

Corrugated metal roofs are recognizable for their wavy pattern. Since corrugated metal is lightweight, it’s easier to install it compared to other metal roofs. For businesses trying to keep energy costs down, a corrugated metal roof is a smart choice.

Metal Shingle Roofs

Metal shingle roofs look like old-fashioned slate, wood, or tile roofs, but are exponentially cheaper than them, too. One more benefit is that metal holds up better than real slate or wood. Metal shingle roofs aren’t too heavy and are easy to install, so it won’t take as much time to put them on.

Commercial Applications of Metal Roofing

Chicago is known to have all kinds of businesses – retail, industrial, offices, etc. With such a mix of businesses, metal roofs are a good fit for many business properties.

Metal Roofing Systems on Retail Properties

For retail stores, a metal roof can make the place look modern and eye-catching to customers walking by. You might not think so, but a good-looking roof can bring in more buyers.

Metal Roofing Systems on Industrial Facilities

For industrial buildings like factories or warehouses, a metal roof is a must-have, thanks in no small part to its herculean levels of durability! Your metal roof will protect your building from leaks, falling debris, severe temperatures, and other potential threats.

Metal Roofing Systems on Office Buildings

Metal roofs are also great for office spaces, as they make your building look polished and modern. A metal roof will demonstrate to your clients you care about your surroundings and are willing to invest in environmentally friendly solutions for the benefit of all.

Tips on How to Install Metal Roofing

First things first – roofing contractors will measure your roof’s surface. Once they get all the necessary measurements, they can figure out how much metal they’ll need to start putting it all together. They’ll tear off your old roof so they can install a new one.

In order to execute a metal roofing installation well, professional roofers will line up metal panels and screw them in good and tight. After that, they’ll put sealant or caulk around the edges and anywhere where there’s a potential risk of water seeping in.

To make sure the metal roof installation is successfully completed, experts will perform one final check to see if everything is as it should be.

What Gauge Is Metal Roofing?

The measurement of how thick the metal is for a commercial roofing system is called the gauge. The gauges for metal roofs vary between 24, which is the thickest, and 29, the thinnest. If you get a thicker gauge, your roof will be way more durable and better insulated.

GAF Master Elite Roofing Contractors

With our team of skilled commercial roofing contractors, Revived Exteriors not only ensures flawless metal roof installations but also offers guidance in selecting the most suitable metal roofing material.

We offer a 5-year workmanship warranty, but have been servicing our customers past that. We can also offer you an enhanced warranty on all our roofing installations.

We’re proud to be GAF Master Elite contractors, which means we can extend the labor and material warranty installed on your shingles for up to 50 years – this is known as the System Plus Warranty.

For an additional price, you can extend our workmanship warranty to 10 or 25 years.

Sounds good? Then Revived Exteriors is your go-to commercial roofing contractor in Chicago, IL.