Blog

As we kick off 2026, most Chicagoland homeowners are focused on staying warm. But there is a massive financial opportunity that often goes overlooked: The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C).

​Choosing new siding or a roof isn't just about picking a color you like. In 2026, it’s a strategic financial decision. At Stan’s Roofing & Siding, we’ve realized that the "best" material isn't a universal truth, it depends entirely on your "Phase of Life.

​If you’ve opened your mail recently and found a "Notice of Non-Renewal" from your home insurance provider, you aren't alone. In 2026, the Illinois insurance market has reached a tipping point.

Why is Iron Gray the defining siding color for 2026? James Hardie has officially named Iron Gray as its 2026 Color of the Year. This selection marks a pivotal shift in Illinois home design away from the stark "Modern Farmhouse" whites toward deep and saturated earth tones.

​​If your roof was installed more than a decade ago, there is a high probability that it is slowly killing itself. It sounds dramatic, but the building science regarding attic ventilation has shifted more in the last 10 years than it did in the previous fifty.

​As we move into 2026, Chicagoland homeowners are more focused than ever on performance. With Illinois winters becoming increasingly unpredictable—swinging from a -20°F "Polar Vortex" one week to a 45°F rainy thaw the next—your siding is your home’s first line of defense.

Which exterior home improvements offer the best return on investment for Illinois homeowners? According to the latest 2025 and 2026 Cost vs. Value reports, exterior renovations continue to outperform interior remodels in terms of resale value.

What are the top siding trends for 2026 and which material is best for the Illinois climate?The top siding trends for 2026 focus on "biophilic" design and restorative hues like deep forest greens, earthy khakis, and warm mahogany browns.

Why is attic ventilation so important for my home?Attic ventilation is a structural necessity that regulates the temperature and moisture levels of your roofing system. A proper system uses a combination of intake vents at the eaves and exhaust vents at the ridge to create a continuous flow of air.

How do ice dams form and what is the best way to stop them? Ice dams form when heat escapes from your home into the attic and warms the upper part of your roof surface.