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Choosing the right roofing shingles in Chicago, IL is crucial due to the area's varied and sometimes harsh weather conditions. Shingles provide durability, protect your home from rain, snow, and wind while enhancing energy efficiency. Selecting high-quality materials ensures a longer roof lifespan, reducing maintenance and repair costs. Additionally, the right shingles enhance curb appeal, boosting your property value. ARC Chicago Roofing Contractors guide you through a comprehensive process to ensure you pick shingles that suit your home's design and withstand Chicago's unpredictable weather.
Residential Roofing Materials
The most common question when it comes to replacing a roof is, "How long will my new investment endure?" The answer varies depending on the materials chosen. With a ton of options available, navigating this process can be overwhelming and expensive. ARC Chicago Roofing Contractors are here to assist you in making your choice. We will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each option, providing you with all the information necessary to make an informed decision.
3-Tab Asphalt Shingles
15 to 50 years
Asphalt 3-Tab Shingles vs Architectural Asphalt Shingles - The Asphalt Shingle family provides a diverse selection comprising two main types: Asphalt 3-Tab Shingles and Architectural Asphalt Shingles. Each is crafted using a flexible fiberglass or organic foundation, which is then coated with asphalt and granules to enhance resilience against environmental elements.
3-Tab Shingles - 3-Tab Shingles are highly popular and typically the most budget-friendly option. They feature an exposed section comprising three equally sized tabs arranged symmetrically across your roof. This type of shingle comes in a diverse range of color options and last up to 20 years.
Architectural Asphalt Shingles - Architectural shingles offer greater durability compared to three-tab shingles, they are designed with a multi-dimensional, textured look reminiscent of wood shakes or slate. Their increased thickness allows architectural shingles to endure for up to 50 years.
Wood Shingles
25 - 30 years
Wood Shingles vs Wood Shakes - Both Wood Shingles and Shakes are fashioned from a variety of tree materials, providing a rustic charm and innate beauty. However, to maintain their 20-30 year life expectancy, regular maintenance is necessary every 2-5 years to prevent deterioration such as rot and cracking.
Wood Shingles - Wood shingles are crafted and shaped from different tree materials like treated pine and redwood. Their installation and appearance emulate the commonly utilized 3-Tab Asphalt Shingle, resulting in a roof with a uniform and symmetrical aesthetic.
Wood Shakes - Shakes boast a thicker design and appearance, with each shingle being unique from one another, providing a broader array of design options. White Cedar is a popular choice of material well-suited for this type of design.
Metal Roofing
20 - 50 years
Metal Roofing - Metal roofs present a diverse range of designs, materials, colors, and shapes, providing ample options for customization. Materials available for selection include copper, tin, stainless steel, aluminum, zinc, and others. The cost of metal roofs varies based on the chosen material, shape, and installation method. Common options include Corrugated panels, Standing Seam, and Shingles. Standing Seam installation offers superior weather protection, while Copper boasts the longest lifespan among the choices available. Weight is typically factored in before installation sometimes requiring a reinforcement of the roof structure. If taken care of, a metal roof can last 100 years!
Composite Shingles
40 - 50 years
Composite Roofing - Composite Roofing Shingles are manufactured from a variety of materials such as wood, plastic, asphalt, and laminate. They are not complicated to install and mostly designed to mimic traditional roofing styles such as wooden, asphalt, or tile shingles. Composite roofing generally has a lifespan of up to 50 years with minimal maintenance. The price range of composite material and installation typically land higher than asphalt but less than other choices such as wood or tile.
Clay Shingles
50+ years
Concrete/Clay/Terracotta Tile Roofing - Each of these roofing options offers a traditional rustic appearance but comes with differing price points and applications. Concrete Tiles emerge as the most cost-effective among the three examples and are available in a range of colors and styles; however, they are highly susceptible to mold. Clay tiles rank as the most expensive but also offer a wide variety of colors and designs, along with being the most durable. Terracotta falls in between regarding price and is heat resistant, making it common in hot regions. However, its performance diminishes in colder climates, so it is not typically found in such regions. All three choices are expected to last well over 50 years.
Slate Shingles
50+ years
Slate roof shingles are a premium roofing option known for their natural beauty, durability, and longevity. Made from natural stone, they offer an elegant appearance that enhances a home’s curb appeal. Slate is highly resistant to fire, weather, and temperature extremes, often lasting over 100 years with proper maintenance. Though more expensive than other materials, its durability and minimal upkeep make it a worthwhile investment. Slate shingles are ideal for homeowners seeking a timeless, high-quality roofing solution.
ARC Chicago Roofing Contractors work with trusted, top-quality brands you can rely on!
ARC Chicago Roofing Contractors use trusted roofing material brands like GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, TAMKO, and IKO because they offer proven durability, quality, and reliability—essential for the unpredictable weather in areas of Illinois like Chicago. These brands provide superior protection against heavy rain, wind, snow, and seasonal temperature changes, ensuring homes stay safe and secure. With advanced technology, excellent warranties, and enhanced energy efficiency, they reduce long-term maintenance costs. Using these top-rated materials ensures roofs withstand Chicago's harsh conditions while enhancing curb appeal and increasing property value. Homeowners can trust these materials for lasting performance and peace of mind.