The Ultimate Guide to Roofing Materials Ideal for Illinois Weather

Illinois might be the Garden of the West and the Prairie state, but it’s got more on offer than fertile land alone. No matter where in the state you are, you can also expect your Illinois roof to face its fair share of extreme weather — including tornadoes, heavy thunderstorms, blizzards, and heat waves. So, you need your roof to be ready. 

If you’re getting ready for a roof replacement (hopefully not because a tornado tore through your old roof!), you have a great opportunity to consider durable roofing solutions. The best roofing materials for Illinois don’t just survive whatever weather they’re confronted with, but they also work to keep your home more comfortable throughout the year. 

1. Asphalt Shingles

Roughly 75 percent of US homes have asphalt shingles — and this all-American roofing material can be a great choice for your Illinois home, too. They’re affordable, easy to install, and pretty easy to maintain. Be careful, though! If you’re looking for long-lasting roofing materials, you need to know that not all asphalt shingles are the same. 

Ask your roofing team about luxury or architectural shingles with:

• Shingles with a high wind rating, in case a tornado hits. 
• Asphalt shingles with reflective granules, great if you’re looking for heat-resistant roofing.

With those characteristics, asphalt shingles can be one of the best Illinois roofing materials! 

2. Clay, Slate, or Concrete Roof Tiles

Clay and concrete roof tiles make for some of the best roofs for snow and ice, because they’re super durable and extremely impact-resistant. These sustainable roofing materials can last you 50+ years, and they can handle hailstorms, heavy winds, and thunderstorms without any issues. They also help to keep your Illinois property cool during the summer, because they’re pretty energy-efficient roofing materials.

If you want an even bigger step up, consider natural slate — which can stay in place for over a century! Talk about a “once and done” roof! If you ever have to call a roofing contractor again, it probably won’t be for a roof replacement. 

3. Metal Roofing 

So, you’re looking for storm-proof roofing options that are simultaneously highly energy efficient, durable, and great for hot summers and cold winters? More and more Illinois homeowners opt for beautiful metal roofing styles, and that’s because metal roofs tick all the right boxes. Your options include metal shingles and standing seam panels. 

4. Cedar Shingles

If you’re looking for eco-friendly roofing in Illinois, cedar shingles should definitely be on your radar! Yes, they’re made of wood, but they’re also surprisingly resistant to rot and fire. Cedar shingles are breathable, so they allow heat to dissipate during hot and humid Illinois summers. With the right roofing insulation techniques, cedar shingles can also be an energy efficient choice during the winter.

Your Roof Replacement Guide: How Do You Choose the Best Weatherproof Roofing Systems?

Are you gearing up for a new roof? You’re on the right track if you know that you’re not stuck with your current roofing materials. A roof replacement is a fantastic opportunity to reconsider your goals, especially if climate-resistant roofs are your top priority. After all, there have been plenty of exciting innovations since your roof was last replaced, and that means better Illinois roofing materials. 

Aside from climate and weather, you’ll also want to think about these points:

• Let’s be honest — you have a budget for Illinois roofing materials, and you’ve got to stick to it. Revived Exteriors will help you pick energy-efficient roofing that also falls within your planned price range!
• Thinking about the care your roof will need before you schedule a roof replacement is one of the best roofing maintenance tips! If you let us know how much time you’re willing to invest in your Illinois roofing materials, our roofers will work with you to choose the best option for you.
• Looks matter too, so think about your preferences — and how well the roofing materials you’re considering match your Illinois home’s exterior.
• Energy-efficient roofing is becoming more popular. Depending on your precise location, you might prioritize roofing for Illinois winters that retain heat, or cool roofing that reflects it to keep you comfortable during hot summers.

Looking for weatherproof roofing systems that fit your budget, look great, and will help you lower your energy costs by making your home more energy efficient is exciting, but it can also be daunting. 

If you already know that you want to make durability (and a better return on investment!) a priority, but you’re not sure what else to look for, give us a call. We’re never too busy to make sure you choose the best Illinois roofing materials for your goals!

Got Questions About Climate-Resistant Roofs?

The Revived Exteriors team has answers, and we’re happy to share. If you’re looking for a roofing contractor in Arlington Heights, IL, get in touch. We can get you started with a free roof inspection and consultation, and our experienced roofers can make recommendations for roofing materials that can withstand whatever weather your corner of Illinois throws at them.