Cook County · Chicago, IL
Roofing help in Chicago
Chicago roofs deal with freeze-thaw winters, lake-effect wind and snow, summer storms and hail. The city's housing is dominated by brick bungalows, two-flats and three-flats, and greystones, many with flat roofs that need membranes rather than shingles.
- Same-day inspections when a roofer is available
- Neighborhoods: Bungalow Belt, Lincoln Square, Logan Square
Areas in Chicago
- Bungalow Belt
- Lincoln Square
- Logan Square
- Portage Park
- Beverly
- Bridgeport
- Pilsen
- Rogers Park
- Ravenswood
- Hyde Park
ZIP codes: 60607, 60608, 60609, 60612, 60613, 60614, 60615, 60616, 60617, 60618, 60619, 60620, 60622, 60623, 60625, 60629, 60630, 60631, 60634, 60641
Chicago homes and their roofs
The Bungalow Belt has thousands of 1910s to 1940s brick bungalows with hip roofs and dormers. Two-flats and greystones usually have flat roofs behind parapets, draining to the rear. Many homes have masonry chimneys and multiple layers of past roofing.
Flat roofs on two-flats and greystones
Parapet flashing, seams and rear drainage are the main leak sources. Modified bitumen, EPDM or TPO membranes are standard; see flat roof repair.
Bungalow dormers and chimneys
Dormer walls and brick chimneys need step flashing and counterflashing in good condition; freeze-thaw cracks mortar and loosens flashing.
Ice dams
Bungalows with finished attics lose heat to the roof deck and form ice dams in snowy winters.
Common calls in Chicago
- Flat Roof Repair & Replacement
- Flashing & Chimney Leak Repair
- Ice Dam Removal & Prevention
- Roof Replacement
- Roof Coatings
Also available in Chicago: emergency roof repair and every roofing service.
Chicago at a glance
- County
- Cook County
- Storm & insurance
- Severe thunderstorms with wind and hail and winter snow are the main risks. Chicago's energy code includes reflective roof requirements for many low-slope roofs.
- Permits
- Roofers must hold an Illinois roofing license, and the City of Chicago Department of Buildings issues permits for roofing work. Landmark districts add review for visible changes.
- ZIP codes
- 60607, 60608, 60609, 60612, 60613, 60614, 60615, 60616, 60617, 60618, 60619, 60620, 60622, 60623, 60625, 60629, 60630, 60631, 60634, 60641
Chicago roofing FAQ
Does a Chicago flat roof need a reflective membrane?
Many low-slope roofs in Chicago must meet the city's reflective roof requirements. Your roofer should confirm the requirement for your building.
Do Chicago roofers need a license?
Yes. Roofing contractors must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Guides for Chicago homeowners
More roofing help in Illinois
Need a roofer in Chicago?
Same-day inspections when a roofer is available. One call connects you with an independent roofer who serves your ZIP.