Shingles is considered to be the most commonly used roofing material in Chicago (Illinois) mainly because they are economical and are sunlight and weather resistant. Residential roof shingles require little-to-no maintenance and besides, are reasonably priced. Shingle roofs are easy to repair, cut and fit. Also, they don’t require any accessories for roof edges and chimney.

Shingles and tile roofs now come in all kinds of colors and profiles. They also can come equipped with zinc plating to protect against algae build up. Remember, all additional features will increase the prices on your roofing project, but shingle and tile roofs are still going to be the most affordable roofing option.

Champion Roofing guarantees the best-quality service in Illinois area which supersedes the standards of other tile roofing contractors.  We offer tile roof repairs and if you choose us to be your roofing contractor, we will make sure we fix roof tiles in the fastest manner possible.

Being the most reputable residential shingle and tile roof contractor in Chicago IL, we put our name on your tile roof and guarantee that your roof will last.

Slate is by far the most durable and good-looking roofing material ever known to people. Most slate roofs have lasted for hundreds of years, enduring all of the surprises of Mother Nature.

If you want to go classical slate roofing in Illinois Champion will help you make your dreams come true, offering you multiple options and attractive pricing structures. Unlike many other slate roofing contractors Champion guarantees you best-quality roof service in Chicago.

We have earned the proven track record of excellent quality roofing and trust from our customers who called us regarding slate roof repairs and other issues.

ChampionRoofing.com takes great pride in its incomparable service and sets the standards in the slate roofing industry. Our main focus is on providing our partners and clients in Chicago IL with the 100% customer satisfaction. Champion Roofing is committed to deliver a standard beyond our competitors’potential and framethese standards into the excellence in everything we do. Our service and quality-valued slate roofing will make your home renewed and charming.

Metal roofs are available in a wide variety of designs and styles for every taste and every home owner. Your metal roof can be manufactured to look like slate, wood shake, shingle or clay tiles.

By deciding to complete steel roof installation, you are guaranteed to save financial resources and positively influence the environment. Metal roofs can be installed over the existing roof, reducing the roof repair costs along with installation expenses.

It needs to be underlined that metal roofs are made from up to 65% of recycled materials and are therefore very environment-friendly. Today, when the environmental pollution keeps reaching the new peaks, you can be the one contributing to saving the environment and caring for the world.

If you install high-quality steel roof, it will surely last for life or more. Metal roof does not crack, shrink or erode. Metal roofing systems are also known for being able to stand through paranormal weather conditions in Illinois.

Metal roofing is a practical alternative many other more popular material in several ways. Metal roofs were common in rural areas for some time, being installed on barns and sheds. There is a stereotype that steel roofs are not appealing, rusty and unpractical. That might be trough in regard to the steel roofs of the past. But today, as the metal roofing technologies and materials have reached a new peak, metal roofs are considered to be one of the most practical, efficient and beautiful roofing materials. Modern metal roofs are a great cost-efficient alternative to many other materials. If you are in search for roofing company, Chicago has many to offer. But few of roofing companies can prove their leading position through decades of service as the best Chicago roofing contractor.

Champion Roofing has a long track record of success and is honored to provide best-quality residential roofing services, as well as commercial roofing services in Chicago, Illinois. We are proud to be the best roofing company in Chicago IL.

Champion Roofing is honored to be one of the best flat roofing contractors in Chicago, Illinois. Many roof companies in Chicago IL today cannot offer their clients best quality flat roof repair for the best price. Champion Roofing is one of the companies that does this and is very proud to serve the Chicago land community for decades.

Once the nature brings its surprises to the home owners, being able to deal with the unexpected flat roof repair is crucial for your home. In order for this to come to pass, you need reliable and reputable contractors that know how to complete flat roofing projects in efficient and timely manner.

Sometimes flat roofs require maintenance to effectively prevent the roof from water infiltration.

Even though flat roofing is not as beautiful as slate, tile, or copper roofs, flat roofs are as important and need more attention. In order to avoid wasting lots of money on repairing your roof, do your best to understand how flat roofs are designed.

As a matter of fact, flat roof systems function by providing waterproof membrane over the whole structure of a building. Small pieces of materials as copper intersect with the membrane and several other building components in order to prevent water infiltration.

It appeared to be that the main reason for problems on flat roofs is primarily failure to identify and fix minor defects on their early stages after installation.

Besides, it is crucial to check the roof after heavy hail or rain to identify how the water drains. You could also check the underside of the roof to detect the leaks to help protect your flat.

If an issue is discovered when inspecting, the immediate flat roof repair will save your money. Repair punctures, worn bituminous coatings, open seams, failed flashings, and other problems before serious leaks develop. Once a roof leaks, damage to the building becomes costly to repair.

Avoid using your flat roof as a staging area for parapet or mechanical repairs where workers can be careless about protecting the surface.

In many ways, roofing for commercial structures is very similar to residential roofing, but commercial roofing does have its unique nuances. While most types of popular roofing materials are used for both kinds structures, commercial roofs tend to be much larger than single family homes, for example. Its large scale can pose special challenges for commercial roofers, along with ventilation and precipitation issues.

Nevertheless, here are some commonly used commercial roofing materials:

Roofing Polymer Membranes

As mentioned above, waterproofing commercial roofs can be a challenge, but with polymer membranes, this isn’t a problem. This material is a single-ply membrane constructed from a synthetic poylmer hybrid. They’re easy to install, as they can be sliced to fit the unique contours of most any commercial roof. Some of the membranes even help with insulation – keeping energy bills at a minimum.

Roofing Shingles

These are actually similar in design to a “built-up roof,” which uses a wood fiberglass base with an asphalt coating. Still this roofing material isn’t installed as a single piece, rather, each shingle is applied one at a time, creating an overlapping pattern.

Metal Roofing

As a roofing material, metal tends to have a significant lifespan and it’s easy to customize to a variety of buildings. Certain metal roofing products have patterns similar to shingles, which people find familiar, and like for that reason. One of the most significant qualities about commercial metal roofing though is that it’s recyclable, which is obviously good for the environment.

Asphalt Roofing

Here we have a classic commercial roofing material. The process of applying asphalt is by beginning with a polyester base, and then laying down coatings of gravel, asphalt, and glaze. This is another commercial roofing system that is resistant to the elements because of it’s layered application.

Slate Roofing

Slate in its natural form can actually last for centuries, and besides its durability, it has a very distinguished appearance. Slate roofing is resistant to fungus and algae, so it demands less maintenance.

If you’re interested in a commercial roofing installation or repair, don’t hesitate to contact Champion roofing, your Chicago roofing experts!

Although hiring a professional Chicago roofing contractor to do your roofing inspection, might be in your best interest, it is possible to do a roofing inspection yourself.

You’ll need:

• A partner
• ladder
• tape measure
• calculator
• safety harness

1. Climb up the ladder slowly and carefully while your partner stablizes it from the bottom.

2. Once at the edge of the roof slope, keep an eye out for uplifted shingles, as well as mechanical nail punctures.

3. Carefully climb on top the roof.

4. Examine each side of the roof slope for scaring, broken, or lose shingles. If you notice these defects, as well as those mentioned in step 2, your roof has definitely suffered some damage. Although a few defects here and there are nothing to get alarmed about.

5. Take note of your roof’s color, if the once black asphalt shingles are now brownish or discolored in another way, chances are, they’ve hit their life expectancy.

6. Evaluate the ventilation system. Roof vents or are designed with metal and you will need to make sure that this metal is not damaged. Keep an eye out for any dents, etc.The caulking should be intact and flush with the metal and the shingle.

7. Inspect the substrate. Various pipes coming through the roof are usually the cause of most roof damage. Be sure to inspect each pipe for cracking, openings, and decayed material. If you should find such damage, make sure to call your roofing contractor.

8. Examine around the chimney for rotted wood. Use a screwdriver to penetrate a small portion of the wood. If the wood is brittle, it’s possible that the chimney is leaking. Check to see if there is a metal underneath the shingles that articulate with the chimney wall.

If you’re interested in a professional roofing inspection, don’t hesitate to contact Champion Roofing, your premier roofing contractors in Chicago!

The following article first appeared in the Chicago Tribune, and it’s extremely relevant to all of you who already own, or are thinking about buying green roofing in Chicago. Although this Chicago green roof suffered a small collapse, these instances are rare. With proper installation, there’s no reason why a green roof would be susceptible to such failure. Still, we like to keep you properly informed.

“‘Green Roof’ Collapse in Suburban Chicago Downplayed

The collapse of a large section of a grass-covered “green roof” at a St. Charles business this weekend shouldn’t discourage people from using the environmentally friendly technique, experts said Monday.

“There’s really nothing about the inherent design of a green roof that should make it more susceptible to this kind of collapse,” said Joseph Clair, director of energy and sustainability at the Illinois Institute of Technology. “Green roofs have been installed in this country and other countries that have snow for hundreds of years.”

The 256,000-square-foot Aquascape Inc. warehouse featured the “largest sloping green roof in North America,” according to the company’s website.

On Sunday, a section of the roof that ran the length of the building and extended over a parking lot collapsed at the pond construction and supply company. The section appeared to be about 50 feet wide.

No one was injured by the collapse, which company officials said in a news release was likely the result of an ice dam that prevented water from the rapidly melting snow from draining off the roof.

Aquascape Vice President Ed Beaulieu said a team of structural engineers from the building’s design firm was on its way from Houston and would inspect it Tuesday.

The roof, he said, had about 6 inches of a lightweight soil mix on it, but he said he didn’t know whether the added weight of the soil may have contributed to the collapse.

“I honestly don’t think we can make that assessment yet,” he said. “I do know that the structural members were greatly increased over what would be used in a standard building.”

The use of green roofs has seen a steady growth in popularity as a way to save energy costs while conserving water and lowering ambient air temperatures in dense urban areas. The roofs feature varying thicknesses of soil or potted planters often planted with native flora.

In Chicago, more than 600 green roofs have either been completed or are being built, said Larry Merritt, spokesman for the city’s Department of Environment.

“As far as I know, we haven’t had any issues in the city in terms of collapses,” he said.

Prairie Sun Consultants owner Patricia Armstrong installed a grass roof on her Naperville home in 2004. The soil is about a foot thick and features mostly native plants, she said.

“We did not have to strengthen our roof because it was already super-strength,” she said. “But with a normal building, you have to have a structural engineer figure out the load, (the weight of) the plants with the soil and with heavy snow on top of it.”"

If you’re interested in roof maintenance for your green roofing in Chicago, don’t hesitate to contact Champion roofing, your premier Chicago roofing contractors!

If you live in or around Chicago, you’re well aware that our winters are anything but leisurely. With this unforgiving season, comes a plethora of pitfalls: icy roads, high gas bills, countless hours shoveling, and of course, snow build-up on your roof. Although you may not realize it, this is a part of the winter season that can pose serious danger to you and your family.

The Dangers of Snow of Your Roof

Roof Collapse – A poorly supported roof can collapse quickly under the incredible weight of a hefty snow buildup. Most homes are only designed to support a snow load of about 10 to 20 lbs per square foot, although some are made to support larger loads. Besides the obvious fact that a roof collapse can be deadly to you and your family, it can also ruin all of your valuable possessions and priceless heirlooms. On top of that, snow-related insurance claims can cost millions, and raise insurance premiums for other home owners. It’s a horrible occurrence for so many reasons.

Roof Leak – Sure, the chances of your roof caving in is pretty small (although you should still be conscious that it could happen), but what’s very likely in the event of hefty snow build-up, is a roof leak. After a big snow storm, there will be that first day when the sun shines through, melting the snow on your roof.  When snow melts, water often trickles through cracks in it, and this can cause water damage to your ceilings and infrastructure. If you notice unsightly brown stains on the ceiling and walls, this is a clear indication of water damage, probably caused from a leaking roof.

Removing Snow From Your Roof

It’s virtually impossible to prevent snow from landing on your roof. Although there are many remedies for preventing roof collapse and roof leaks for new construction homes, the best thing you can do as a current owner, is to simply remove the snow.

A word to the wise: removing snow from your roof can be very dangerous.

* always have assistance

* If your roof has a steep slope, leave it to a professional.

Snow Rake

The safest way to clean snow off your roof is with a snow rake. It’s a long-pole with a flat piece of aluminum attached at the end.  This tool is ideal for hooking snow and pulling it from the roof.

Purchase a rake that is rust proof, aluminum, and lightweight. Some rakes stretch over 20 feet long, but a 16 foot long rake can work just as well. Purchase an angled pole when possible, allowing you more maneuverability.

Raking snow from your roof can be very difficult work, but can be made easier by following a few simple steps.

1. Get up on a ladder, while someone else spots you.

2.) Pull the first six inches to a 12 inches of snow off with the rake.

3.) Slowly work your way back from the roof edge to the middle.

4.) Don’t allow the rake end to come off the roof when pulling the snow over the ledge. This will save you quite a bit of energy.

If you’re experiencing a roof leak, or you fear that your roof might collapse from snow build-up, don’t hesitate to contact Champion Roofing, your premier Chicago roofers!

Champion Roofing Earns Coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award

Award reflects company’s consistently high level of customer service

Champion Roofing has been awarded the prestigious 2010 Angie’s List Super Service Award, an honor bestowed annually on approximately 5 percent of all the companies rated on the nation’s leading provider of consumer reviews on local service companies.

“Our Super Service Award winners are the cream of the crop when it comes to providing consistently high quality customer service, as judged by the customers who hired them,” said Angie Hicks, founder of Angie’s List.

Angie’s List Super Service Award winners have met strict eligibility requirements including earning a minimum number of reports, an exemplary rating from their customers and abiding by Angie’s List operational guidelines.

Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie’s List, but members can find the 2010 Super Service Award logo next to company names in search results on AngiesList.com.

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Angie’s List collects consumer reviews on local contractors and doctors in more than 500 service categories. Currently, more than 1 million consumers across the U.S. rely on Angie’s List to help them make the best hiring decisions. Members get unlimited access to local ratings via Internet or phone, exclusive discounts, the Angie’s List magazine and help from the Angie’s List complaint resolution service. Take a quick tour of Angie’s List and view the latest Angie’s List news.

It’s obvious that the term “going green” has become a complete cliche. That’s a good thing though. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, green-renovated buildings could potentially save $20 billion a year in energy costs. When it comes to green building though, roof improvements aren’t always the first thing to be done. This is very ironic, considering that roofs are generally much less durable, and energy efficient than other parts of building components. Creating an eco-friendly roof ought to be a priority. What constitutes a so-called “green” building material though? The answers aren’t as cut and dry as you might think, but these simple questions should give you a good start.

Is It Energy Efficient?

This question may seem like a given, but for those who don’t know, the term “green” does indeed entail that the material in question will reduce the amount of energy used. This can mean either that the substance has a reflective quality or that it helps with heat absorption. The material you select ultimately depends on the climate you live in. Metal and clay roofs are great options.

Is It Sustainably-Made?

Did you know that roofing is currently the 2nd largest contributor to solid waste generation in the United States. That’s why it’s important to choose recycled roofing materials. Metal might be energy efficient, but if it’s not recycled, it takes a great deal of energy to manufacture. Always go with recycled metal, never “virgin.”

Other recycled roofing materials:

• slate
• reclaimed clay
• panel-shake

What’s Is Its Lifespan Going To Be?

Here, you’re looking at the durability of the material. The longer your roof lasts, the less money and resources will be needed to replace it.

Slate – very durable, but expensive and non-renewable.

Metal – expensive, but last two times longer than wood or asphalt.

Remember, you want your green roofing material to not only last a long time, but be able to endure the elements, as well.

Wood – prone to moisture damage, might need to be treated with chemical (often bad for environment)

Steel (metal) – prone to rust, and tend to corrode

Unfortunately, there are no easy answer to these green roofing questions. With every “pro” a roofing material has, a “con” often comes with it. With that said, just try to learn as much about each substance as you can, and make the most informed judgement as possible.

If you’re thinking about having a green roofing installation done, make sure to contact Champion Roofing, we’re premier Chicago roofing company, that will out perform your average Chicago roofers, every time.