Recent Storm Damage in Chicago
August 16, 2025: Hail Storm affected Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Des Plaines, Cary, Port Barrington, Woodstock, Schaumburg, Lake in the Hills, Algonquin. If your roof was damaged, act now to prevent further damage.
2025 Storm Events in Chicago
Recent severe weather that may have damaged roofs in your area
August 16, 2025
Hail Storm
Hail: Up to 1.5 inches (ping-pong ball)
Winds: Up to 63 mph
Affected Areas:
Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Des Plaines, Cary, Port Barrington, Woodstock, Schaumburg, Lake in the Hills, Algonquin
Widespread roof and siding damage; many full roof replacements approved by insurance; Cary declared State of Emergency
Chicago, Illinois
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Climate Impact
Climate Considerations in Chicago
Understanding Chicago's weather patterns helps you choose the right roofing materials and plan your project timing.
Photo by Tobias Reich on Unsplash
Challenge 1
Extreme temperature swings from -10F to 95F (historical extremes: -36F to 117F)
Challenge 2
Illinois ranks 4th nationally for hail damage insurance claims
Challenge 3
Heavy snowfall averaging 38+ inches annually in Chicago
Best Time to Roof
Optimal months for roofing projects
Best Months
MayJuneJulyAugustSeptember
Avoid if Possible
NovemberDecemberJanuaryFebruaryMarch
Energy Considerations
How your roof affects energy costs
- Metal roofing reflects 70% solar energy, reducing attic temps 10-12F
- Cooling cost reduction of 10-25% with reflective roofing
- Proper attic insulation R-38 minimum per Illinois Energy Conservation Code (effective Jan 2025)
- Ventilation critical - 1 sq ft per 150 sq ft attic area to prevent ice dams
- Federal tax credits available for ENERGY STAR qualified cool roofing materials
Chicago's climate presents some of the most demanding conditions for residential roofing in the United States. The city experiences dramatic temperature swings, from bitter winter lows of negative ten degrees Fahrenheit to summer highs approaching one hundred degrees, with historical extremes ranging from negative thirty-six to one hundred seventeen degrees. This constant thermal cycling creates expansion and contraction stress that accelerates material deterioration, reducing roof lifespans by twenty to thirty percent compared to homes in milder climates.
The Windy City earns its nickname with wind gusts regularly reaching sixty miles per hour, while its position in the shifting Tornado Alley brings additional severe weather risk. Chicago receives an average of thirty-eight inches of snow annually, creating heavy loads that strain roofing structures and contribute to the formation of ice dams along roof edges. When melting snow refreezes at the eaves, water backs up under shingles and can cause significant interior damage.
Perhaps most concerning for homeowners is that Illinois ranks fourth nationally for hail damage insurance claims. The August 2025 hail storms that swept through the northwest suburbs delivered hailstones up to one and a half inches in diameter, causing widespread roof damage across communities from Palatine to Woodstock. This frequency of severe weather events makes material selection critical for Chicago homeowners.
Humidity averaging seventy-one percent year-round promotes moss and algae growth on roof surfaces, while the region receives thirty-two to forty-eight inches of precipitation annually. The combination of freeze-thaw cycles, heavy precipitation, hail frequency, and temperature extremes means Chicago roofs work harder than most. Proper material selection and installation timing can mean the difference between a roof lasting fifteen years or four decades.
The Windy City earns its nickname with wind gusts regularly reaching sixty miles per hour, while its position in the shifting Tornado Alley brings additional severe weather risk. Chicago receives an average of thirty-eight inches of snow annually, creating heavy loads that strain roofing structures and contribute to the formation of ice dams along roof edges. When melting snow refreezes at the eaves, water backs up under shingles and can cause significant interior damage.
Perhaps most concerning for homeowners is that Illinois ranks fourth nationally for hail damage insurance claims. The August 2025 hail storms that swept through the northwest suburbs delivered hailstones up to one and a half inches in diameter, causing widespread roof damage across communities from Palatine to Woodstock. This frequency of severe weather events makes material selection critical for Chicago homeowners.
Humidity averaging seventy-one percent year-round promotes moss and algae growth on roof surfaces, while the region receives thirty-two to forty-eight inches of precipitation annually. The combination of freeze-thaw cycles, heavy precipitation, hail frequency, and temperature extremes means Chicago roofs work harder than most. Proper material selection and installation timing can mean the difference between a roof lasting fifteen years or four decades.
How Chicago's Climate Affects Materials
asphalt Shingles
Become brittle below 40F; vulnerable to cracking in cold weather; granule loss from hail
metal Roofing
Excellent performance - handles temperature swings, sheds snow, prevents ice dams
slate
Very durable but requires structural support; excellent for long-term investment
composite Tile
Good durability; polymer materials remain flexible in cold weather
Finding the right roofing contractor in Chicago can feel overwhelming given the hundreds of companies serving the metropolitan area. The stakes are high because Chicago's demanding climate punishes poor workmanship quickly, with freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and frequent hail storms exposing installation defects within seasons rather than years. Connecting with a qualified, properly licensed contractor is essential for protecting your home investment.
Illinois requires roofing contractors to hold a state license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, known as IDFPR. This roofing-specific license is distinct from a general contractor license and ensures the company has met training and qualification standards for roof work. You can verify any contractor's license status directly through the IDFPR online license lookup tool at their official website. This verification step takes only minutes and immediately identifies unlicensed operators.
Beyond state licensing, Chicago contractors must navigate the city's Express Permit Program for roofing work, demonstrating familiarity with local requirements. The best contractors handle all permitting and inspections as part of their service, removing administrative burden from homeowners while ensuring code compliance.
Illinois requires roofing contractors to hold a state license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, known as IDFPR. This roofing-specific license is distinct from a general contractor license and ensures the company has met training and qualification standards for roof work. You can verify any contractor's license status directly through the IDFPR online license lookup tool at their official website. This verification step takes only minutes and immediately identifies unlicensed operators.
Beyond state licensing, Chicago contractors must navigate the city's Express Permit Program for roofing work, demonstrating familiarity with local requirements. The best contractors handle all permitting and inspections as part of their service, removing administrative burden from homeowners while ensuring code compliance.
When evaluating Chicago roofing contractors, start with license verification through IDFPR's online database. A valid Illinois roofing contractor license confirms the company has met state requirements and can legally perform roof work. Be cautious of contractors who hold only a general contractor license, as roofing work specifically requires the dedicated roofing license under Illinois law.
Manufacturer certifications separate elite contractors from average installers. GAF Master Elite certification is held by only three percent of roofing contractors nationwide and requires proven installation expertise, proper insurance coverage, and commitment to ongoing training. CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred designations carry similar prestige. These certifications unlock enhanced warranty coverage including workmanship guarantees that protect you beyond the manufacturer's material warranty.
Ask prospective contractors specific questions about their Chicago experience. How many bungalow roofs have they completed? Are they familiar with flat roof systems for two-flats and greystones? Do they carry experience with insurance claim documentation given Illinois's high hail damage frequency? Request references from projects in your neighborhood and follow up with those homeowners about their experience.
Watch for warning signs that indicate storm chasers or unreliable operators. Door-to-door solicitation immediately after severe weather often signals out-of-town companies seeking quick profits. Requests for large upfront deposits, cash-only payment demands, and pressure to sign contracts immediately are red flags. Legitimate contractors provide written estimates, welcome questions, and never rush your decision. They maintain local addresses, answer their phones, and stand behind their work for years after installation.
The right contractor will meet with your insurance adjuster if you're filing a storm damage claim, document damage thoroughly with photos and measurements, and advocate for proper repairs. They handle permits through the Chicago Department of Buildings, schedule required inspections, and provide warranty documentation upon project completion.
Manufacturer certifications separate elite contractors from average installers. GAF Master Elite certification is held by only three percent of roofing contractors nationwide and requires proven installation expertise, proper insurance coverage, and commitment to ongoing training. CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred designations carry similar prestige. These certifications unlock enhanced warranty coverage including workmanship guarantees that protect you beyond the manufacturer's material warranty.
Ask prospective contractors specific questions about their Chicago experience. How many bungalow roofs have they completed? Are they familiar with flat roof systems for two-flats and greystones? Do they carry experience with insurance claim documentation given Illinois's high hail damage frequency? Request references from projects in your neighborhood and follow up with those homeowners about their experience.
Watch for warning signs that indicate storm chasers or unreliable operators. Door-to-door solicitation immediately after severe weather often signals out-of-town companies seeking quick profits. Requests for large upfront deposits, cash-only payment demands, and pressure to sign contracts immediately are red flags. Legitimate contractors provide written estimates, welcome questions, and never rush your decision. They maintain local addresses, answer their phones, and stand behind their work for years after installation.
The right contractor will meet with your insurance adjuster if you're filing a storm damage claim, document damage thoroughly with photos and measurements, and advocate for proper repairs. They handle permits through the Chicago Department of Buildings, schedule required inspections, and provide warranty documentation upon project completion.
Roofing Materials for Chicago
When selecting roofing materials for Chicago homes, durability and weather resistance must take priority over aesthetics alone. Metal roofing stands out as the premium choice for the Chicago climate, delivering forty to seventy year lifespans while handling temperature extremes, shedding snow naturally, and preventing ice dam formation. Standing seam metal reflects seventy percent of solar energy, reducing attic temperatures significantly and cutting cooling demands during hot summers.
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice among Chicago homeowners due to their versatility and wide availability. However, not all asphalt performs equally in Chicago conditions. Standard three-tab shingles become brittle below forty degrees Fahrenheit and typically last only fifteen to eighteen years in northern Illinois due to freeze-thaw stress. Architectural shingles with SBS-modified asphalt offer better performance with twenty-two to twenty-five year lifespans and enhanced wind resistance of up to one hundred ten miles per hour.
For homeowners concerned about hail damage, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles represent the optimal asphalt choice. These premium products use polymer-based mesh backing and can withstand two-inch steel balls dropped from twenty feet without cracking. Given Illinois's ranking as fourth nationally for hail damage claims, the insurance discounts of up to thirty-five percent available for Class 4 materials often offset their higher initial investment over time.
Slate roofing offers unmatched longevity of seventy-five to one hundred fifty years but requires substantial structural support due to its considerable weight. Composite tile provides a middle-ground option, mimicking premium materials while maintaining flexibility in cold weather that prevents cracking. For flat roofs common on Chicago's two-flats and commercial buildings, TPO and modified bitumen systems offer reliable waterproofing with fifteen to thirty year lifespans and excellent resistance to ponding water.
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice among Chicago homeowners due to their versatility and wide availability. However, not all asphalt performs equally in Chicago conditions. Standard three-tab shingles become brittle below forty degrees Fahrenheit and typically last only fifteen to eighteen years in northern Illinois due to freeze-thaw stress. Architectural shingles with SBS-modified asphalt offer better performance with twenty-two to twenty-five year lifespans and enhanced wind resistance of up to one hundred ten miles per hour.
For homeowners concerned about hail damage, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles represent the optimal asphalt choice. These premium products use polymer-based mesh backing and can withstand two-inch steel balls dropped from twenty feet without cracking. Given Illinois's ranking as fourth nationally for hail damage claims, the insurance discounts of up to thirty-five percent available for Class 4 materials often offset their higher initial investment over time.
Slate roofing offers unmatched longevity of seventy-five to one hundred fifty years but requires substantial structural support due to its considerable weight. Composite tile provides a middle-ground option, mimicking premium materials while maintaining flexibility in cold weather that prevents cracking. For flat roofs common on Chicago's two-flats and commercial buildings, TPO and modified bitumen systems offer reliable waterproofing with fifteen to thirty year lifespans and excellent resistance to ponding water.
Roofing Permits in Chicago
Chicago requires building permits for all roof replacement projects, processed through the City of Chicago Department of Buildings. The Express Permit Program streamlines the process for standard re-roofing work including repair, recovery, and full replacement. Homeowners should note that roof repairs are limited to twenty-five percent of the existing roof surface area under city code; exceeding this threshold requires a full replacement permit rather than a repair permit.
Illinois law requires roofing contractors to hold a valid state roofing contractor license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, commonly known as IDFPR. This is distinct from a general contractor license and specifically authorizes roofing work. Contractors must also carry adequate property damage coverage, liability insurance, and workers compensation for all employees. Your contractor should handle all permit applications and coordinate inspections with the Chicago Department of Buildings.
Historical districts within Chicago may require additional documentation and design approval before work can proceed. Commercial properties and buildings in designated zones have separate permitting requirements. If your project includes structural repairs to the roof or involves installing over two or more existing layers of covering, drawings and calculations prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer are required. All projects must meet International Residential Code and International Building Code structural minimums, ensuring your new roof can handle Chicago's substantial snow loads and wind requirements.
Illinois law requires roofing contractors to hold a valid state roofing contractor license issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, commonly known as IDFPR. This is distinct from a general contractor license and specifically authorizes roofing work. Contractors must also carry adequate property damage coverage, liability insurance, and workers compensation for all employees. Your contractor should handle all permit applications and coordinate inspections with the Chicago Department of Buildings.
Historical districts within Chicago may require additional documentation and design approval before work can proceed. Commercial properties and buildings in designated zones have separate permitting requirements. If your project includes structural repairs to the roof or involves installing over two or more existing layers of covering, drawings and calculations prepared by an Illinois-licensed architect or structural engineer are required. All projects must meet International Residential Code and International Building Code structural minimums, ensuring your new roof can handle Chicago's substantial snow loads and wind requirements.
Choosing a roofing contractor in Chicago
Selecting the right roofing contractor in Chicago requires careful vetting beyond simply comparing quotes. Begin by verifying the contractor holds an Illinois roofing contractor license through IDFPR and carries the required insurance minimums. Request copies of insurance certificates and confirm they remain valid throughout your project timeline.
Manufacturer certifications provide additional quality assurance. GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed Select, and Owens Corning Platinum contractors represent the top tier of roofers who meet rigorous training and performance standards. These certifications unlock enhanced warranties including workmanship guarantees that non-certified installers cannot offer.
Local contractors like Economy Roofing, with over forty years serving Chicago's bungalows and greystones, understand the unique requirements of the city's vintage housing stock. Power Home Remodeling and Erie Metal Roofs offer national backing with local presence and lifetime warranties. Gaffney Construction has served the Chicago metro area since 1970, bringing decades of local experience.
Be wary of storm chasers who appear after severe weather events. These contractors often use high-pressure tactics, request large upfront deposits, and may disappear before completing warranty repairs. Always get multiple written estimates, verify local references, and confirm the contractor will handle permits and inspections. A trustworthy roofer will meet with your insurance adjuster on-site if you're filing a claim and provide detailed documentation of all work performed.
Manufacturer certifications provide additional quality assurance. GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed Select, and Owens Corning Platinum contractors represent the top tier of roofers who meet rigorous training and performance standards. These certifications unlock enhanced warranties including workmanship guarantees that non-certified installers cannot offer.
Local contractors like Economy Roofing, with over forty years serving Chicago's bungalows and greystones, understand the unique requirements of the city's vintage housing stock. Power Home Remodeling and Erie Metal Roofs offer national backing with local presence and lifetime warranties. Gaffney Construction has served the Chicago metro area since 1970, bringing decades of local experience.
Be wary of storm chasers who appear after severe weather events. These contractors often use high-pressure tactics, request large upfront deposits, and may disappear before completing warranty repairs. Always get multiple written estimates, verify local references, and confirm the contractor will handle permits and inspections. A trustworthy roofer will meet with your insurance adjuster on-site if you're filing a claim and provide detailed documentation of all work performed.
Local Insights
Chicago's diverse neighborhoods each present distinct roofing considerations shaped by their architectural heritage and community character. The Bungalow Belt stretching through Portage Park, Jefferson Park, Belmont Cragin, Garfield Ridge, Chicago Lawn, and West Lawn contains over eighty thousand of the city's iconic brick bungalows, most built between 1910 and 1940. These homes feature characteristic low-pitched hipped roofs with wide overhangs that require careful attention to ice dam prevention and proper ventilation. Contractors familiar with bungalow architecture understand the specific flashing details and drainage requirements these vintage roofs demand.
The greystone corridors of Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Pilsen, Bridgeport, and Hyde Park showcase Chicago's distinctive limestone-faced rowhouses, many featuring flat or low-pitched roofs that require commercial-grade membrane systems rather than traditional shingles. These neighborhoods often have historic district considerations that may limit material choices or require approval before work begins. Two-flats throughout these areas need specialized flat roof expertise, with TPO and modified bitumen being the go-to solutions for reliable waterproofing.
The northwest suburbs including Palatine, Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Des Plaines, Rolling Meadows, and Schaumburg face particularly high hail risk, as demonstrated by the August 2025 storms that swept through this corridor. Homeowners in these communities increasingly choose Class 4 impact-resistant shingles not only for durability but for the substantial insurance premium discounts they provide. Suburban developments in these areas typically have HOA requirements that must be addressed before selecting materials, though most associations maintain pre-approved lists that include the premium weather-resistant options best suited to the region's climate challenges.
The greystone corridors of Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Pilsen, Bridgeport, and Hyde Park showcase Chicago's distinctive limestone-faced rowhouses, many featuring flat or low-pitched roofs that require commercial-grade membrane systems rather than traditional shingles. These neighborhoods often have historic district considerations that may limit material choices or require approval before work begins. Two-flats throughout these areas need specialized flat roof expertise, with TPO and modified bitumen being the go-to solutions for reliable waterproofing.
The northwest suburbs including Palatine, Arlington Heights, Mount Prospect, Des Plaines, Rolling Meadows, and Schaumburg face particularly high hail risk, as demonstrated by the August 2025 storms that swept through this corridor. Homeowners in these communities increasingly choose Class 4 impact-resistant shingles not only for durability but for the substantial insurance premium discounts they provide. Suburban developments in these areas typically have HOA requirements that must be addressed before selecting materials, though most associations maintain pre-approved lists that include the premium weather-resistant options best suited to the region's climate challenges.
Connecting with a qualified Chicago roofing contractor protects your home and ensures your investment performs for decades. Take time to verify Illinois roofing licenses through IDFPR, confirm insurance coverage, and check manufacturer certifications before making your decision. Request multiple written estimates that detail materials, warranty terms, and included services.
Local expertise matters significantly in Chicago's challenging climate. Contractors who understand the specific needs of bungalow roofs, greystone flat roofs, and suburban homes in hail-prone areas deliver better results than companies unfamiliar with the region. Ask about their experience with your specific roof type and neighborhood.
Ready to connect with qualified local roofing professionals who understand Chicago's unique requirements? Getting matched with licensed, experienced contractors in your area takes the guesswork out of finding the right partner for your roofing project.
Local expertise matters significantly in Chicago's challenging climate. Contractors who understand the specific needs of bungalow roofs, greystone flat roofs, and suburban homes in hail-prone areas deliver better results than companies unfamiliar with the region. Ask about their experience with your specific roof type and neighborhood.
Ready to connect with qualified local roofing professionals who understand Chicago's unique requirements? Getting matched with licensed, experienced contractors in your area takes the guesswork out of finding the right partner for your roofing project.
8
Verified roofing contractors
Verified local contractors serving Chicago, Illinois. All contractors are licensed and insured for roofing work in your area.
Highest Rated
Power Home Remodeling
4.5
Best Overall - National company with local Chicago branch, lifetime warranty on all roofing
30+ years
Asphalt ShinglesEnergy Efficient RoofingWindowsSiding
2
Erie Metal Roofs
4.5
3
Aspen Contracting
4.5
4
Gaffney Construction
4
5
Economy Roofing
6
Green Attic Roofing
+ 2 more roofing contractors
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Pro-Line Contractors
Specialties
RoofingSidingSoffit FasciaStorm Damage
Based in Homer Glen, IL - serves Chicagoland area
Holda Construction Roofing & Siding
20+ yearsCertified
Specialties
Roof ReplacementHail Damage RepairInsurance ClaimsSidingGutters
20+ years experience, specializes in storm damage and insurance claim assistance
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Call (888) 292-4579 - Free QuoteComplete Chicago Roof Replacement Guide
Everything you need to know about roof replacement in Chicago. Expand any section for details.
Interior Signs
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Daylight visible through roof boards in attic
- Sagging roof deck visible from inside attic
- Moisture or condensation in attic space
- Mold growth on attic surfaces
- Increased heating/cooling bills indicating insulation issues
Exterior Signs
- Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
- Granules accumulating in gutters (sign of shingle deterioration)
- Damaged or missing flashing around vents, chimneys, skylights
- Moss or algae growth on roof surface
- Visible sagging in roof line
- Dents or punctures from hail damage
- Blistering or bubbling on flat roofs
25% Rule: If damage exceeds 25% of roof surface area, Chicago building code requires full roof replacement rather than repair. Also consider replacement if roof is over 20 years old with multiple issues, or if you've had 3+ repairs in recent years.
Chicago at a Glance
Local neighborhoods, climate conditions, and landmarks that influence roofing decisions
Logan Square
Residential homes with porches and rooflines in Logan Square Chicago neighborhood
Photo by Leo Heisenberg on Unsplash
Bungalow Belt
Classic Chicago red brick two-flat building with flat roof typical of city architecture
Photo by Gautam Krishnan on Unsplash
Residential Area
Logan Square Chicago street scene showing historic brick buildings and architecture at dusk
Photo by Joss Broward on Unsplash
Local Climate
Chicago street during winter snowstorm with L train tracks and snowy conditions
Photo by Tobias Reich on Unsplash
Local Landmark
Cloud Gate sculpture known as The Bean in Millennium Park with Chicago skyline reflection
Photo by Nikoloz Gachechiladze on Unsplash
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about roof replacement in Chicago, Illinois
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