Everything Homeowners Need to Know Before Replacing a Roof in Illinois

Replacing your roof is one of the biggest home improvement decisions you will make. It affects the value of your home, your energy bills, and how protected your family is during Illinois weather. Between snow, wind, ice, hail, intense UV, and rapid temperature swings, your roof has a harder job here than almost anywhere else in the country.

This guide explains everything a homeowner needs to know so you can make a confident, informed decision. No stress. No surprises. Just real answers from a roofing company that has been protecting Illinois homes for more than 58 years.

1. How Long a Roof Lasts in Illinois

Illinois roofs have shorter lifespans than the national average because of:

• Freeze thaw cycles

• Wind gusts

• Heavy snow loads

• Hail

• Summer heat

• Attic ventilation issues

• Rapid temperature swings

Here are realistic expectations:

• Builder grade shingles: 10 to 15 years

• Mid grade architectural shingles: 15 to 22 years

• Malarkey impact resistant shingles: 20 to 30 years

• Metal roofing: 40 to 70 years

• Flat roofing systems (EPDM, TPO): 15 to 25 years

If your roof is over 15 years old, it should be inspected once a year.

2. The Real Signs You Need a New Roof

Homeowners often look for damage on the shingles, but the most important signs are deeper.

You may need a replacement if you notice:

• Curled or cracked shingles

• Missing shingles

• Granules in gutters

• Leaks after storms

• Ceiling spots

• Blistering interior paint

• Ice dams forming in winter

• Rising energy bills

• Mold or dark streaks

• Attic is too hot or too cold

• Moss growing on shingles

• Sagging roof decking

If more than 10 percent of the roof is affected, a replacement is usually the safest and most cost effective solution.

3. Roofing Materials: What Actually Works in Illinois

This is where many homeowners get overwhelmed. There are dozens of styles, brands, and warranties. Here is the simple breakdown.

Asphalt Shingles

The most popular option in Illinois.

Pros:

• Affordable

• Good curb appeal

• Fast installation

• Strong warranties

• Wide color selection

• Works well in our climate

Best choice: Malarkey polymer modified shingles.

They resist hail, wind, algae, and UV far better than standard asphalt.

Metal Roofing

A premium, long lasting roof.

Pros:

• Extremely durable

• Fire resistant

• Great for snow shedding

• Modern appearance

• Long lifespan

Good for homes with complex designs, farmhouses, or homeowners staying long term.

Cedar Shake

Beautiful but high maintenance.

Pros:

• Natural look

• Good insulation

Cons:

• Expensive

• Vulnerable to moisture

• Short lifespan in humid climates

Not recommended for most Illinois homes today.

Flat Roofing (EPDM or TPO)

Used on flat or low slope roofs.

EPDM: rubber like, durable

TPO: white, energy efficient

4. What Affects Roofing Cost the Most

These factors change pricing more than anything:

• Removal of old shingles

• Number of layers

• Roof pitch

• Roof size

• Structural repairs

• Ventilation upgrades

• Decking replacement

• Underlayment quality

• Brand and shingle grade

• Flashing and chimney work

• Warranty level

• Dump fees

• Local code requirements

Companies that skip codes can offer lower prices, but homeowners pay for it later.

5. Roof Installation: What Should Actually Happen

Here is a proper Illinois roof replacement from start to finish.

Step 1: Full tear off

Remove every layer. No overlays. Overlays trap heat and hide damage.

Step 2: Inspect and replace decking

Any soft or rotted wood must be replaced.

Step 3: Install high quality underlayment

Synthetic underlayment, not felt.

Step 4: Ice and water shield

Required in Illinois. Prevents ice dam leaks.

Step 5: Drip edge and flashing

Protects edges and vulnerable areas.

Step 6: Ventilation system

Ridge vents and intake vents are critical for preventing heat, moisture, mold, and ice dams.

Step 7: Shingle installation

Installed to manufacturer standards, not “industry standard shortcuts.”

Step 8: Cleanup

Magnets, yard protection, nail sweep, driveway protection.

Step 9: Warranty registration

Manufacturer plus workmanship.

6. Roof Warranties: What Matters and What Does Not

Most homeowners do not realize that shingle warranties mean almost nothing until they are installed by a certified contractor.

Manufacturer Warranty Types

• Standard

• Enhanced

• Extended full coverage

Workmanship Warranty

This is the most important part.

Most leaks are caused by installation error, not shingle failure.

A strong workmanship warranty comes only from a local company that stands behind its work.

7. Why Choosing a Contractor Matters More Than the Shingle

Two homeowners can buy the same shingle, but their roofs will perform completely differently based on how the contractor installs it.

Choose a contractor who:

• Does full tear off

• Registers warranties

• Follows local codes

• Updates ventilation

• Replaces flashing

• Uses synthetic underlayment

• Is licensed and insured

• Has decades of local experience

• Offers clear pricing

• Has a physical location

• Has real reviews, not purchased ones

A great shingle installed incorrectly will still fail.

8. Financing the Right Way

More than half of homeowners finance their roof today.

Benefits:

• Low monthly payments

• Protects emergency savings

• No interest plans available

• Lets you fix the whole problem instead of patches

The right financing program allows you to choose the higher quality option without sacrificing financial stability.

9. How To Prepare for a Roof Replacement

• Move cars out of driveway

• Take down fragile items from walls

• Keep pets inside

• Remove patio decor near the house

• Notify neighbors if needed

• Expect noise during the day

The average roof takes one day on most homes.

10. Why Stan’s Roofing and Siding Is One of Illinois’ Most Trusted Roofers

Stan’s has protected Illinois homes for 58 years.

Homeowners choose us because:

• We use the highest rated materials

• We never cover over old roofs

• We follow all local codes

• We specialize in Malarkey roofing systems

• We update ventilation, flashing, and decking

• We provide clear pricing

• We offer financing with no pressure

• We respect your home and neighborhood

• We handle storm damage and insurance correctly

• We stand behind every project with real warranties

Your roof is too important to trust to a company that cuts corners.

The Bottom Line

Replacing your roof does not need to be confusing or stressful. With the right information and the right contractor, your home will be protected for decades.

If you want help choosing materials or getting a free roof evaluation, Stan’s is here to guide you through every decision with clarity and honesty.