FAQs about roofing from the roofing experts at Cedar Roofing Company
Your questions answered: We’ve been in the roofing business for more than 40 years. Over those years, we’ve heard many of the questions you’re asking, and we’re sharing them here. All answers have been vetted and verified by Keith MacNaught, our senior Project manager and sales manager, who’s been building and maintaining hundreds of roofs in Chicagoland since he joined us in 2006.
CRC has multiple maintenance programs, with cost depending on the roofing material, size of roof and other factors. We offer a free roof inspection to help you understand which program is best for your roof.
Beyond the obvious signs of moss or missing shingles, time is the biggest indicator. Generally, the majority of roofs that were installed with older materials last 10-20 years. (Today’s roofs, made with superior products, last longer)
If your roof was installed in the 1990s, we recommend you get a professional out to look at it. Our CRC representatives will be happy to give you a detailed assessment of your roof’s condition and lifespan, along with a free estimate if needed.
The cost of a roof replacement is highly variable and needs to be estimated on a case-by-case basis.
The cost of a new roof is influenced by a number of factors:
- Size and complexity: Larger roofs require more materials and labor.
- Materials: Premium options like slate or tile are more expensive.
- Roof pitch: Steeper roofs increase labor costs.
- Structural requirements: Additional support may be needed.
- Accessibility: Difficult-to-reach roofs raise labor costs.
- Additional features: Skylights and custom ventilation add complexity.
Our skilled installers will replace rotted plywood, soffit, fascia as needed, for an extra fee.
We normally work on one section at a time, so if it rains, you will be covered. We will always keep your attic dry; on the other hand, it is perfectly okay if roofing materials get wet during installation, that is what they were made for.
You bet. We install roofs year round in the Chicagoland area, and work with the same crew, so you will get the same outstanding quality in December that you get in July. Some advantages in the winter include frozen ground to help protect landscaping and the weather is more predictable.
Regular roof maintenance includes several essential tasks. You should have professionals inspect your roof at least yearly for damage, missing shingles, or leaks. Cleaning gutters and removing debris is crucial to prevent water buildup. Additionally, trim overhanging branches to avoid damage. Consider scheduling professional inspections annually by CRC to catch potential issues early and maintain your roof’s longevity. Promptly address any repairs to avoid costly future problems.
CRC is an experienced and expert roof installer specializing in:
- Cedar Shake
- Synthetic and composite materials
- Asphalt
- Slate
- Metal
- Tile
You can find more information about each of these on our roofing overview page.
People install cedar shake roofs because they love them! Cedar shake roofs are prized for their rustic, elegant appearance. They add character and charm to homes, enhancing curb appeal and potentially increasing property value.
Cedar shakes cost a bit more than simple asphalt shingles. They also require some level of upkeep to ensure their longevity. This includes cleaning, removing debris, and treating moss and fungi every two to four years if you live in an area with shade and trees.
Slate roofs seem to last forever. And with care, they truly are among the longest-lived roofs, lasting up to 100 years! Slate’s look is timeless and elegant, enhancing the curb appeal of any home.
But keep in mind that slate can be pricey, it’s remarkably heavy—requiring a very strong roof—and it needs regular attention. Slate roof owners should budget for minor maintenance every year.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the United States. They’re also among the most affordable. And, what’s more, they’re very simple to install.
While durable, asphalt shingles typically do have a shorter lifespan compared to other roofing materials like metal, clay, or slate. Many asphalt installations last about 20 years, while architectural shingles may last up to 30 years
For more about Asphalt Shingles, see our detailed asphalt section.
In the long run, compared to many of the natural materials it echoes, a synthetic or composite roof is absolutely a good deal. A roof finished with synthetic materials is generally more expensive initially than a traditional roof, but it can last up to 40-50 years if installed properly and maintained over time. Learn more about synthetic and composite roofs by CRC.
CRC operates in Chicagoland and beyond, in parts of Illinois and Wisconsin. You can see a map of our completed projects on our Project Map
Typically, a drone inspection is free of cost and will include a free estimate. A more thorough inspection with someone getting on the roof can range from $350 – $550 depending on the complexity and size of roof.
CRC is a Velux Certified skylight installer. To learn more, see our Skylights page.
All of our re-roofs also include a material warranty provided by the manufacturer, with few exceptions. Most product warranties are for over 50 years! All agreements and performance required by such agreements are subject to strikes, ice dams, blowing snow, mold or mildew conditions, damage from hail, tornado or storms of peculiar nature and drywall cracks, nail pops and settling due to construction.
All of our re-roofs include 5 year non-prorated coverage with few exceptions. This warranty is not widely used by our customers, but we have it for their peace of mind. Our workers shall take reasonable precautions to avoid damage to Owner’s grass or landscaping, blacktop, concrete drives, septic sewer, well, water lines or public utilities resulting from the weight of our vehicles and/or heavy equipment or material.