How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Chicago, IL, in 2024?

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!

April 24, 2023/by Robert Ciepiela

Commercial Roofing, Learn

The benefits of Working With Experienced Commercial Roofing Contractors in Chicago, IL

When it comes to the maintenance of your Chicago commercial flat roof, it’s crucial to ensure that you hire a qualified professional to work on the roof.

Opting for an amateur or someone who does roofing as a side job can be a risky decision that can lead to costly repairs down the line.

The same principle applies to the maintenance of commercial roofs. While it may be tempting to cut corners and hire someone who views commercial roofing as a hobby, the advantages of working with a commercial roofing firm are undeniable. By investing in a commercial roofing expert, you can reap the benefits that come with their specialized knowledge and experience in the field.

Professional Roof Inspection

Commercial roofing companies that offer professional roofing services are well aware of what kind of roof inspection they need to conduct in order to be certain they have examined every single part of your commercial roof and be assured that they haven’t missed anything. A thorough roof inspection will help identify any potential roofing issues that are just in the beginning and fix these same problems in time so that they do not turn into greater damage in the future.

Experience and Knowledge

Years of experience and numerous commercial roofing projects have equipped professional roofers with the expertise and knowledge to tackle any potential roofing issue with confidence and ease. Just as you wouldn’t trust a doctor who is still studying, you shouldn’t leave your commercial roof in the hands of a novice with no experience.

Various Commercial Roofing Services

A professional roofing company which is specialized in commercial roofing will have not only experience and knowledge but could offer all kinds of various commercial roofing services as well. Those services include commercial roof installations, commercial roof repairs, commercial roof replacements, flat roof repairs, and all kinds of roofing systems, like EPDM roofing systems or TPO roof systems.

Professional Commercial Roof Repairs

One more benefit of working with an experienced commercial roofing contractor is his ability to carry out professional commercial roof repairs. What does it mean, exactly? It means that he will have in-depth insight and knowledge gained through his previous work experience to successfully identify and resolve a roof issue that needs repair. Unlike a newbie who will be guided by the trial and error method, a seasoned professional will be able to immediately assess what the problem is and solve that same issue once and for all.

Warranty, Certifications, Licenses

Unlike someone who has just begun with a roofing business, an experienced roofer will have all the necessary certifications and licenses. Furthermore, he will have the opportunity to offer a longer warranty on his work or on the roofing materials that he is using since he will have confidence and self-assurance in himself and the material he uses.

Safety and Efficiency

Two more benefits of working with an experienced commercial roofing contractor are safety and efficiency. Guys with experience know how to look after themselves while conducting roof work, but not at the expense of efficiency. The least you need is a rookie hanging around your roof who is at risk of getting hurt trying to get a move on his too-slow work pace.

Revived Exteriors, Experienced Commercial Roofing Contractor in Chicago, IL

We believe that this text has convinced you of the importance of hiring a company that has sufficient experience in performing commercial roofing tasks. If you are looking for someone like that, contact Revived Exteriors, a seasoned commercial roofing Chicago IL company that stands out from other commercial roofing companies with its professionalism and efficiency.

Revived Exteriors has been in the roofing business for more than a decade. We are fully family-owned and operated, and our team consists of experienced roofers who are fully licensed and certified for demanding jobs in commercial roofing. In addition, we are well-versed in the most cutting-edge methods and materials for commercial roof repair, replacement, and installation.

Hence, contact us if you want to talk to a professional about your business roofing needs.

March 24, 2023/by Robert Ciepiela

Learn, Roofing General

The benefits of hiring a professional roofing contractor in Illinois

As you probably know by now, being a homeowner brings many responsibilities, one of which is taking care of your roof. We should also note that the roof of your home is probably the most demanding part of the house you have to pay attention to since a leaking roof, for example, can destroy the whole house and bring unimaginable financial costs and losses.

However, when the time comes and the roof starts showing issues, some homeowners decide to play roofing contractors themselves, or even they decide to put their trust in some jack-of-all-trades contractor instead of calling a professional roofing contractor. In the following lines, we will explain why this is a mistake and why you should always hire a professional roofing contractor when you notice your roof is not performing well.

Let’s Highlight the Word Professional

This subheadline may sound unclear, but the point is to emphasize that professional roofing contractors are experts. They are fully committed to roofing, follow all safety guidelines, and are thoroughly trained, experienced, and knowledgeable.

Furthermore, professional roofing contractors take responsibility for their work since they know how important the recommendations and praises of former customers are. Without them, their work wouldn’t be recognized or rewarded with new customers.

Roofing Services of Professional Roofing Contractors

Professional roofers are skilled in offering a variety of roofing services, such as roof inspection, roof repair, roof replacement, roof maintenance, roof installation, and similar roofing services that can only be provided by a professional. This is in contrast to some home improvement craftsmen you planned to hire. The most beneficial service a qualified roofer can offer is probably a roof inspection. An expert will know where to check for any problems during the inspection, how to properly identify them, and how harmful they are to your roof. Nobody else except a qualified roofing contractor can handle it.

Licensed, Bond, and Insured

You, not the professional roofer, should place greater value on the fact that they carry the appropriate licensing and insurance. This ensures that the work you’ve contracted the roofer to undertake will be completed in accordance with industry standards and to your satisfaction. In addition, you are totally protected from any liability in the case of an accident occurring on your property during work on your roof since you will not be held responsible.

Warranty and Exclusive Roofing Materials

Not one, but two more benefits of hiring a professional roofing contractor are warranty and high-quality roofing materials that can be provided only by a roofer that has a special deal with manufacturers. There is no need to emphasize how beneficial it is to have a warranty on roofing work for which you have paid a significant amount of money, are we right?

Specialized Roofing Services

In addition to the general roofing services we have just mentioned, a professional roofing contractor may also provide special roofing services like hail and wind damage evaluation reports, storm damage restoration services, and insurance claims. Only a professional roofing business can offer these services, which will get you back on your feet quickly.

Revived Exteriors, Your Go-to Professional Roofing Contractor in Illinois

If, after reading this text, you wonder where you could find a professional roofer who will provide you with the benefits listed above, the answer is right in front of you.

Revived Exteriors, a roofing Chicago IL company with over several decades of experience in the roofing and home improvement industry, is your definite choice if you are looking for a professional roofing contractor who is fully certified, qualified, and specialized in all kinds of roofing services. Besides standard roofing services like roof replacement and roof repair for residential and commercial subjects, Revived Exteriors offers storm damage restoration services, along with storm damage insurance claims, hail and wind damage restorations, plus solar, windows, siding, and other home renovation services.

Therefore, if your roof in Illinois needs attention, don’t hesitate to contact Revived Exteriors, a leading exterior home improvement company that cares for all Illinois residents.

February 20, 2023/by Robert Ciepiela

Learn, Residential Roofing, Roof Repair, Selling

Should You Repair Your Roof Before Selling or Not?

A roofing contractor is replacing the roof of a house.

Having your own house is a dream for most of us, and after we reach that dream, we eventually start dreaming and planning to purchase another more suitable place. However, since most of us aren’t multimillionaires, before buying our new dream house, we must sell the old one, and the question that starts popping is whether or not to repair the roof of your old house before selling your property.

Let’s get something straight; repairing your roof is optional before putting your old house on the market. However, if the roof is in good shape, you should expect a higher selling price, which will come in handy, don’t you agree?

Therefore, when determining whether or not to invest in roof repairs before listing your property for sale, it’s important to keep the following things in mind.

Getting Roof Repair

Roof repair can be a costly undertaking. However, if your roof is in poor shape, it may prevent you from selling the house at all. If you want to sell your home quickly and for a reasonable price, fixing any problems with the roof is a must.

Also, a property with a damaged roof may be challenging to sell if your ideal buyers are picky about every detail and refuse to pay for any repairs after closing.

Likewise, if your roof was damaged by a storm not too long ago and your homeowner’s insurance covered the damage, you should get it fixed since you already have insurance, and it won’t cost you a single dime.

What’s the state of your roof like?

Before deciding whether or not you should repair the roof on your existing house, you should check its state and see how functional it is. That’s where a roof inspection can be handy, especially if it is conducted by a professional who is going to check the state of asphalt shingles, the condition of your attic, sidings, and other roofing materials. After the inspection, you’ll have in-depth knowledge about your roof’s condition.

Then, if you want to sell your home quickly and know that your roof is in poor condition, a roof repair must be conducted. The reason is obvious. Many purchasers, especially first-time buyers, are hesitant to shell out more funds for substantial renovations.

In the end, though, it’s up to you to decide whether or not to reduce your asking price and sell the house in its current condition.

Are You Willing to Repair Your Roof?

Getting a decent, well-working roof is essential if you want to sell your home for a higher price. A major roof repair might cost you some money, depending on the damage and how extensive the damage is.

Getting your roof repaired also takes time. The length of the process is determined by how quickly you can compare the roofing company quotes and estimates, get a great deal with the roofing company, and finally have the start-to-finish work. You might want to consider bad weather, as it can be the reason for delay when working on your roof project.

However, with minor repairs, all damage can be repaired at a lower price in a shorter amount of time.

Why Should I Repair It?

Possessing a roof that is in reasonably good shape might help you sell your home more quickly. It will reassure the buyer that they won’t have to spend more money on repairs just to make your property habitable.

You can also pay for a roofing specialist to provide maintenance and repair services and give a roof certification for an additional three to five years. The buyer’s concerns will be alleviated, and, as a result, their confidence in purchasing your house will increase.

So, Should I or Shouldn’t I?

When it comes to selling a home, you want to make sure you get the best deal. If you have some damage on your roof, you can get your roof repaired or get a roof replacement.

If you still need clarification about whether you should repair your roof before selling your home after reading this blog, you can call Revived Exteriors, your local roofing company in Arlington Heights, IL.

We will help you provide the information you need by performing a roof inspection to determine your roof’s condition. Then, our experienced roofers will repair any roof damage that you have and guarantee to serve you with high-quality results.

January 17, 2023/by Robert Ciepiela

Residential Roofing, Learn

FAQ About Residential Roofing in Arlington Heights Area

A man is installing a shingle on a residential roofing.

Being in the roofing business for more than ten years and serving homeowners in the Arlington Heights area, we have noticed that several questions regarding residential roofing are popping out frequently. Hence, we have created a list of frequently asked questions and corresponding answers.

Therefore, if you are a homeowner from Arlington Heights searching for answers about residential roofing, this blog post is for you.

What Are the Most Common Roof Problems?

Several common roof problems trouble homeowners in this part of Illinois, like damaged shingles, clogged gutters, flashing issues, pooled water, storm damage, and, the most frequent one, leakage issues.

Which Roof Is Best for High Winds and Storms?

Wind-proven shingles and metal roofs are the best for high winds and storms. Wind-proven shingles have long-lasting wind warranties with no maximum wind speed limitation, and metal roofs are a well-known solution for areas hit by high winds due to their durability and strength.

How Many Years Should a Roof Last?

The average lifespan of a roof is somewhere between 15 and 20 years. However, when the roof is adequately maintained and the entire roofing system, including insulation, intake, and exhaust, is addressed, the roof can last 30-plus years. Nonetheless, the roof’s life expectancy also depends on the quality of the roof’s installation; therefore, when replacing a roof, look for a reliable and experienced roofer that’s been around for at least ten years and is not a roofing novice.

What Causes Roofs to Fail?

Water damage is the leading cause of roof failures. Neglected problems with water in the roof’s wooden structure are leading to the deterioration of structural components, resulting in the roof’s collapse. That’s why it is crucial to act if you notice any problem with water on your roof, whether it is pooling water or a leakage issue.

What Are Areas of the Roof Most Likely to Leak?

The most prone roof areas to leakage are around skylights and chimneys if the flashing is damaged. Also, if your roof misses shingles, those places will most likely leak when the rain starts.

How Do I Know When to Replace My Roof?

If your roof is in its 20s and has a lot of missing and damaged shingles, it’s time to start planning a roof replacement. Also, if there is severe water damage on your roof, and your attic is full of mold, plus your energy bills are high, don’t postpone roof replacement since your roof has telltale signs it needs to be replaced.

What Maintenance Should Be Done on a Roof?

As for maintenance, if you want to be on the safe side, you should schedule a roof inspection at least twice a year, once before fall, and the second time, after winter. The inspection should consist of addressing any exposed nails, flashing, loose shingles or any any other clear observations.

Who to Call for a Roof Inspection in Arlington Heights Area?

If you are looking for a reliable and trustworthy roofing contractor in the Arlington Heights area to conduct a roof inspection, Revived Exteriors is your answer.

We are a locally owned and operated roofing company from Arlington Heights, serving the surroundings like Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect, Des Plains, Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Aurora, Barrington, Chicago, Evanston, Villa Park, and other Illinois areas.

During the inspection, we are going to inspect your roof thoroughly and check for any shingle issues, damaged flashing, moss presence, attic inspection, hail damage, and other roof parts that require examination.

After the inspection, we are going to provide you with a detailed report and the required steps to restore your roof to its original condition.

Therefore, if your roof in Arlington Heights needs to be inspected, don’t hesitate to contact Revived Exteriors, a fully licensed, insured, and bonded roofing contractor from Arlington Heights.

December 13, 2022/by Robert Ciepiela

Commercial Roofing, Learn

Most common problems in commercial roofing

Commercial roofs are made from long-lasting materials, like metal, standing seam, BUR (or built-up roofing), EPDM and TPO roofing, and other materials that are known for their resilience to wear and tear.

Still, even though commercial roofs are known for their longevity and durability, they also can encounter certain roofing issues that need to be addressed as soon as you notice them.

This article will list some of the most common roofing issues of commercial roofing, so if you want to know more about it, keep reading.

Inadequate Installation

The most explicit example of a bad roof installation is if you have a metal roof that does not have a layer of coating. Since metal roofs are prone to leakage, coatings like TPO, EPDM, SPF, and others will protect seams and give metal roofs waterproof characteristics.

Furthermore, roof installation is challenging, and you need to be knowledgeable and experienced to understand all the potential pitfalls that roof installation brings. Therefore, you wouldn’t like to have a rookie roofing contractor on your commercial roof yet a seasoned and trustworthy one.

Water issues

There are two most common concerns regarding water issues. The first one is, obviously, leakage. The thing with leakage is that it takes a lot of work to find a source; only a keen and experienced roofer will know how to discover it. It can occur anywhere, especially around gutters, if they are clogged and unmaintained.

The second water issue that occurs on commercial roofs is pooling water. Water pooling happens due to a low slope or because of poor installation (one more reason why you need to pay attention to whom you are giving the roof installation assignment), and it can lead to severe damage by water leakage.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing‘s task is to protect roofing seams from water issues; therefore, if flashing is damaged, leakage is the next problem you will encounter. To keep the flashing in adequate condition, regular maintenance and roof inspection are a must.

Storms and High Winds

High winds aren’t unusual in Arlington Heights and its surrounding. Nor the storms. Severe wind can badly damage commercial roofs, even to the extent that they blow off the entire roof. To minimize that risk, you must be sure that the roof installation has been done correctly and without cutting corners.

Shrinking issues

Since temperature changes, like warm and cold weather conditions, affect roofing materials, materials expand or shrink, which affects their stability and waterproofness. To prevent possible roof damage caused by shrinking issues, a commercial roof needs to be inspected at least once a year.

Lack of Maintenance and Roofing Inspection

As we have already mentioned in this text, many of these roofing issues can be avoided if you regularly inspect and maintain the roof of your commercial facility. If you aren’t sure who to call, we have the answer.

Schedule an On-Site Inspection by Revived Exteriors

Revived Exteriors is one of the best roofing contractors Arlington Heights IL, specializing in residential and commercial roofing that serves dozen of cities and towns in Illinois, like Barrington, Buffalo Grove, Chicago, Evanston, Naperville, Orland Park, and others.

Besides residential roofing services, like roof repairs and replacement, our services include commercial roofing services, like commercial roof installation, commercial roof repairs and replacement, commercial flat roofing, and commercial roof inspection, FREE of charge.

During the inspection, we will present all potential roofing issues that the roof on your commercial property has, with a proposal of future steps to recover your commercial roof to its adequate condition.

Therefore, if you want to avoid experiencing roofing issues like damaged flashing, pouring water, or leaks, contact us and schedule a roofing inspection by a professional and reliable roofing company that’s been in the roofing business for more than a decade.

Don’t leave the most valuable part of your commercial property to chance; call us and schedule a FREE roofing inspection that will save you immense costs down the road.

November 22, 2022/by Robert Ciepiela

Residential Roofing, Learn

How to Prepare Your Roof for Winter: 5 Essential Tips for Homeowners

Every season brings its pros and cons to homeowners. Winter is beautiful because it lets you indulge in the warmth of your home with your family. But unless your roof is in perfect shape, your home budget will feel the consequences even if you don’t.

And if you know that every gust or raindrop can ruin your winter because you can’t remember the last time you checked your roof, you can’t expect to have a relaxing winter.

To avoid that scenario, read (and use) 7 winter roofing tips for homeowners.

Flashings Before Anything Else

Nothing ruins Christmas more than a leaking roof, especially if the leak is there for a while and reaches its final form just before you start unwrapping your presents. By final form, we mean you’ll notice water dripping in your living area.

To prevent that, take care of your roof. Inspect it regularly and pay close attention to flashings. Most leaks happen because of them. Water can find a way to your underlayment if your flashings are too old or damaged. Then it’s only a matter of time before your decking starts rotting.

And even though there are many DIY flashing replacement tutorials, we advise you to leave flashing installation to your contractor. It’s easy to make tiny mistakes, so the flashing seems waterproof but doesn’t serve its purpose.

Clean Your Gutters

Gutters are there to save your home and property from turning into a swamp every time it rains. Water will start pouring down your wall into the basement if your gutters get clogged. We don’t have to tell you how much damage that can cause.

So it’s a no-brainer to clean your gutter before winter. There are numerous DIY gutter cleaning techniques (and we’re sure you already have your favorite). However, we don’t recommend walking on the roof.

And if you decide to clean your gutters while standing on the ladder, don’t do it alone. Use that to spend some quality time with someone from your family. Cleaning gutters might not become anyone’s favorite memory, but visiting you at the hospital would leave some scars, so remember – better safe than sorry.

Take Care Of Your Plants

We’ve seen numerous roofs destroyed by plants, so we advise homeowners to trim their trees strategically. Smaller plants aren’t that dangerous, but a big tree with heavy branches can give you a skylight you never asked for.

Dead branches are especially tricky because lighter winds can tear them apart and drop them on your roof. But sometimes, the whole trees are pulled out of the ground, so you must be clever while trimming them.

Trees use their branches to keep balance, so removing a big branch might shift the tree’s center of gravity. We know that sounds tricky, so if you don’t have experience with plants, don’t be too proud to seek help from someone who does. Because if your tree decides to check your attic, you’ll need a roof replacement. And that reminded me of something you must do if you want to have a pleasant winter.

Check Your Attic and Roof Vent

Attic and roof vents play a role in determining the amount you see on your energy bills. During winter, the insulation is supposed to keep the hot air in, and the vent should let the attic breathe.

If the vent isn’t working (it can’t balance the outside temperature with the temperature of your attic), your attic will become moist. And who loves humid environments? Mold! And mold spreads quickly, so if you haven’t checked your attic in months and there are small black spots on your walls or ceiling, you have an uninvited guest in your home.

Book A Professional Roof Inspection

But the golden rule of roofing is always the same – better safe than sorry. That’s why roof inspections are vital for the overall condition of your property. We tell all our clients to do at least one DIY roof inspection a year.

However, to be extra safe, it’s always best to let the pros do their magic. At least one professional inspection every year is a must. And if you want someone experienced to check your roof, get in touch with the roofing contractor in Aurora, IL, who offers free consultations.

October 12, 2022/by Robert Ciepiela

Flat Roofs, Commercial Roofing, Learn

Advantages of Membrane Coating Systems

A roofing contractor is working on a roof with rolls of tarps.

The weather in Arlington Heights, IL, is unusual. Winters are cold, the same as in most of Illinois. But summers, especially July, are hotter than the state’s average. That means roofs in the area must be able to withstand both extremes, which isn’t always easy.

So we’ll share some advantages of coating systems with you today. Membrane coating is widely used on flat commercial roofs; after reading this, you’ll understand what makes that technique so popular.

Membrane Coating Systems Waterproof Roofs

The vital question about every roof is if it’s waterproof. That’s what everyone expects. But commercial building owners must pay additional attention to sealing their roofs.

Membrane coating systems are perfect for that. The membrane is added on top without any joints, nails, or anything that could act like a Trojan horse and let water penetrate the roof. In other words, the coating membrane gives a seamless finish, so leaks are less likely to occur.

Longer Roof Lifespan

Three things usually destroy roofs: water, heat, and lack of maintenance. We see many that suffer from the combination of all 3. People notice problems when the rain starts falling on their heads. And those roofs usually have something in common. Those are just metal roofs without any coating.

So we recommend adding a coating on top of flat roofs because, from our experience, it prolongs the roof’s lifespan by at least 10 years. That means 10 more years without replacing the whole roof or any major repairs (unless the weather surprises you).

Quick and Silent Installation

We do a lot of residential roof replacements. Usually, homeowners leave the house while the crew is doing their magic. We understand that; that’s not a quiet project.

But adding a membrane coating to the roof is silent, and installation doesn’t take long if the crew is experienced. Another benefit is that you don’t need to wait for perfect weather to do that either. Membranes have weather resistance even during the installation, so light rain doesn’t stop the project.

Coating Breathes Together With The Building

Heat makes buildings and roofs expand. The cold makes them shrink. Something like breathing. But that causes issues on regular roofs because nails, flashings, etc., don’t expand/contract the same as the rest of the building.

As you probably guessed, that creates openings for water, which leads to leaks. But membrane coatings are seamless and copy the movement of the building. In the end, that helps to keep them waterproof for a long time. On top of that, membranes provide high UV protection.

Which Roofing Contractor in Arlington Heights, IL, Does Great Membrane Coating?

Membrane coating systems add valuable properties to flat commercial roofs. High water resistance, strong UV protection, simple installation, and longevity of the whole roof… Who wouldn’t want that for their building?

Yet it happened more than once that clients called us right after roof replacement to repair stuff other contractors messed up. So if you’re looking for the best roofing contractors Arlington Heights, IL, has to offer, your search is over.

September 22, 2022/by Robert Ciepiela

Roof Replacement, Learn

16 Questions to Ask Your Roofer Before a Roof Replacement in Long Grove, IL

shingles ready to be installed on a roof in Arlington Heights, IL

Picking a contractor for your roof replacement can cause headaches if it’s your first time (or you’ve had trouble with roofers in the past). But you can’t postpone that forever.

The longer you wait, the more damaged your home gets. So instead of procrastinating, start asking questions. The right questions. And we’ll give you 16 questions to ask your potential contractor. If they pass, you’re in good hands.

Why Don’t You Just Repair It?

Sometimes it may seem like roof replacement is unnecessary. Sometimes that’s actually the case. So if your potential roofer tells you to prepare for roof replacement, ask them why they can’t just repair damaged areas.

Their answer will show you if they’re trying to sell you something you don’t really need. Once you’re sure you’re negotiating with an honest company… keep asking more questions.

Are You Licensed in Long Grove, IL?

Yes is the only answer you can accept in this case.

Not in 3 months, soon, we were, or anything similar.

Do You Have Workman’s Compensation and General Liability Insurance

People want to feel safe, and safety comes from insurance. If the roofing company isn’t insured, clients (you) pay for expenses caused by accidents. One of their crew members falls from the roof? It’s your fault if they don’t have a workman’s compensation.

Some equipment falls from the roof and damages your property? You’re paying for it if the roofer doesn’t have general liability insurance.

Can I Please See Your Insurance Certificate?

It’s nice to build relationships based on trust. But when that trust can cost you a lot, build relationships based on proof. If your contractor can’t show their insurance certificate – find the one who can.

Do You Have A Warranty?

In saturated markets, warranties are what earn that last drop of trust contractors needs from their clients. You want to pick a company that won’t leave you helpless if something happens.

How Do You Create Your Price and What Might Cause Additional Expenses?

You want to get a clear answer. It’s a red flag if roofers don’t know how prices are created. And it’s even worse if they can’t tell you what might cause deviation from the agreed price (because that means anything might cause unexpected expenses).

Can I Have a Written Copy of the Estimate?

This is the best way to protect yourself from deviations in the price.

Is Your Contract Easy to Understand?

If you need 3 lawyers to decode a roof replacement contract, they’re maybe trying to hide something. Ask them to explain parts of the contract you don’t understand.

Do You Have Photos Of Previous Roof Replacements?

Humans are visual beings, and we love before and after photos. Ask for some. If it’s clear they’ve done well many times before, you can be calm. But to be extra safe, ask the next question.

Can I Call Any Of Your Previous Clients?

If they show you 30 photos and can’t share contacts, you probably want to think twice before signing the contract.

Will Your Crew Do The Work?

Some companies just sell roof replacements and outsource projects to other roofers. Or they take too many clients, so they have to let someone else do it.

Outsourcing doesn’t mean your new roof won’t be good. But it’s better to know the company you’re talking to will do the work.

Will You Check the Inside of My House During Roof Inspection?

You want them to climb to your attic and inspect it in detail. You also want to see them checking your walls for early leak signs.

Will You Leave Me All The Garbage?

Some roofers make you take care of everything.

Some bring a dumpster and put garbage in it, but you organize the transport.

And some take care of everything.

Who Answers My Calls?

You want to know who your project manager is, and you want to know they’ll be at your disposal when you need them.

Why Don’t You Just Add Another Layer of Shingles?

This is the trick question to see if you’re dealing with real pros. Even though adding another layer of shingles could be done in theory, you won’t see any experienced roofer do that.

It adds weight to the house and makes basic roof repairs difficult. You want a roofer to tell you why the second layer isn’t a good idea.

When Can You Start?

When you’re sure you can trust your contract, ask the last question before the roof replacement.

“Sounds cool. When can you start?”

And if you need a Long Grove, IL, roofing company for your roof replacement but don’t want to be stressed during the process – we’re here.

August 29, 2022/by Robert Ciepiela

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Roof Replacement or Roof Repair: Which Route to Take for Your Home in Lombard, IL?

Roofing contractors in Arlington Heights, IL

Lombard doesn’t get too hot over the summer, but rain is common. And water is the arch-nemesis of roofs. But like wet summers don’t test your home enough, winters in Lombard are freezing and windy. The wind is as dangerous as water. But it’s the worst when they team up.

That causes roof damage. How big that damage is depends on various factors. Yet, we won’t look at the causes. We’ll look at the solutions. After your roof suffers any damage, you have a decision to make. To repair or replace?

This article will give you a cheat code for answering that question.

When It’s Better to Replace a Roof Than Repair It?

The main reason to repair roofs instead of replacing them is always money. Everybody would love to have a brand new roof all the time because that lowers bills and increases house value. But sometimes people try to save money, so they go with another repair.

That’s understandable, but there are situations when repairing an old roof doesn’t pay off. We’ll mention 4 of them.

Shingles Are Older Than 12 Years

The average lifespan of asphalt shingles is 12 years. And that’s valid for shingles that aren’t neglected. Roofs that aren’t inspected regularly wear off sooner. Old shingles without proper coating are weak against sun damage. Even though Lombard isn’t extremely hot, the heat and UV radiation are still dangerous.

So if you can’t remember the last time you replaced your roof, don’t just repair it. Replace it.

Even if it’s just a couple of cracked shingles at the moment, you may be one gust away from a disaster.

More Than 33,33% of Your Roof is Damaged

Do you know the domino effect in roofing? That’s when a roof loses a couple of shingles, and homeowners do nothing. A bit stronger wind blows. Suddenly, their roofs miss a bunch of shingles.

The roof is like a living being. The damage spreads if you don’t deal with it on time.

But sometimes, it’s better to put it out of its misery than to prolong its life. It’s better for everybody. And you’ll know you have to say the last goodbye to your roof if more than 33,33% is damaged.

In other words, if a third of your roof needs repairs, it’s better to do a roof replacement.

Overall Condition Is Far From Perfect

Maybe your roof doesn’t have massive problems, but you can notice many tiny issues. Then it’s best to call contractors to do an inspection. If they think your roof has seen its best days, they’ll let you know.

If not, they’ll suggest how to repair those issues to keep your roof in perfect condition for as long as possible.

You Plan to Grow Old in That House

It’s one thing if you’re flipping houses… You don’t have to invest in the new roof if it’s in good enough condition.

But if you’re ashamed to look at the roof of your home… It’s advisable to arrange a roof replacement. Maybe that won’t make your house 10 times more valuable, but it will make your home a better place to live. Lower energy bills and staying calm during storms are just 2 of the benefits.

How to Be Sure if It’s Better to Replace Your Roof?

However, sometimes replacing a roof isn’t the best option. Even if it looks like a no-brainer to you. That’s why we recommend people to call us before making big decisions. We’ve seen decent roofs get replaced and terrible roofs repaired. To ensure you do the best thing for your home, call an experienced Lombard roofing contractor.

July 19, 2022/by Robert Ciepiela