Top 5 Roofing Trends for Commercial Buildings in Chicago, Illinois

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!