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While you might think a roofing contractor in Chicago only focuses on the basics, there are a few things you might not expect to see on a roof in the area.
Here are nine unusual items roofers have been known to add to roofs in the Windy City.
1. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is made from metal sheets installed on the existing roof. It is popular in Chicago because it is durable, low-maintenance, energy-efficient, and can last for decades with little or no maintenance.
Metal roofs provide many benefits over traditional roofs, such as lasting longer without major repairs, blocking heat from the sun, and keeping homes cooler during the hot summer.
Additionally, metal roofs can withstand harsh weather conditions such as strong winds or heavy snow loads better than other materials like asphalt shingles.
2. Tile roofs
While not as common as other materials, Chicago roofing contractors add a variety of tile roofs, such as:
- Terracotta tiles: These are made from earth-fired clay and have a fused, watertight surface
- Clay tiles: These are made from natural clay and can come in a variety of colors
- Slate tiles: This type of tile is quarried from slate rock and has an attractively textured surface
- Ceramic tiles: These are typically used for decorative purposes since they come in many colors and patterns
3. Slate roofs
Sometimes you will see a roofing contractor put in a slate roof in the Windy City. When they install this style, it comes with the following benefits:
- Various color slates in many different sizes
- Customized designs for unique roofing additions, such as decorative tiles and copper accents
- Installation of gutters and downspouts into the slate to direct water away from the home or building more efficiently
4. Wood shake roofs
Wood shake roofing in Chicago can be found in various styles and colors. Examples include:
- Cedar Shake Roofs: These roofs feature cedar shakes that are highly durable and breathable. They hold up well during periods of heavy rain and snow, are impervious to bugs, and help preserve the home’s structural integrity by preventing condensation issues.
- Wood Shingle Roofs: Wood shingles are another popular option for wood shake roofs in Chicago. They come in various sizes, shapes, colors, and textures to suit any homeowner’s taste.
5. Rubber roofs
Rubber roofs are a type of roofing system composed of an asphalt-based material mixed with rubber fragments.
Roofers in Chicago often use rubber roofs because they are lightweight, easy to install and maintain and provide good insulation properties. Rubber roofs come in various colors, including black, brown, and gray, allowing them to blend in well with the surrounding environment.
Additionally, they have high resistance against water damage, making them ideal for areas with frequent rainfall or snowfall.
6. Composite decking
Composite decking is a type of decking material made from a combination of plastic and wood fibers. Composite decking offers many benefits when roofing, especially if you want to create a rooftop deck or terrace.
Composite decking has become increasingly popular among roofers in Chicago due to its long-lasting durability, low maintenance requirements, attractive aesthetics, and variety of colors available. Furthermore, the benefits associated with composite decking provide peace of mind that the product will last many years without any issues arising.
7. Steel roofs
Another type of material that a roofing contractor will use in Chicago is steel. With a steel roof, there is less chance that the roof will collapse during a fire. Steel is also resistant to high winds, so it can help keep your home safe during a severe storm.
People love that steel roofs can last decades with little to no maintenance. Steel roofs are also eco-friendly because they can be recycled when they are no longer needed.
8. Roof cresting
Cresting is a decorative element added to the top of a roof. It can be made from metal, wood, or other materials and is typically used to add visual appeal or to provide protection from rainwater runoff.
Chicago roofers have become increasingly popular for adding cresting to their designs due to its aesthetic value. Cresting can also help prevent water damage by diverting rainwater from the home’s structure and preventing erosion on the roof. Additionally, it provides an extra layer of protection against wind-driven debris, such as snow and ice, in harsh winter conditions.
9. Snow guards
Snow guards are metal barriers installed on the roof to prevent snow from accumulating. They can either be installed at the roof’s edge or along the gutter’s edge to divert the falling snow away from it.
Snow guards are common additions to roofs in Chicago because they help to reduce maintenance costs associated with snow cleanup by preventing it from building up on the roof in the first place. Additionally, they provide added protection for gutters against ice dams which can lead to costly repairs if left untreated.
Conclusion
From rubber roofs to slate details, roofers in Chicago often add an extra layer of visual interest and customization to your home. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, give Baltic Roofing a call and see what we can offer.
