Chicago Roofing Contractors

About Chicago Roofing

A strong and well cared for roof is key to a home's longevity. Chicago residents should have their roofs inspected regularly by a contractor and undertake regular maintenance to avoid major damages and related costly repairs. Homeowners should keep in mind the seasonal temperature differences as well as the heavy precipitation in winter and summer when making roofing decisions.

Typical Climate in Chicago

Situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago gets plenty of severe weather as winds whip over the lake to blast cold air, rain and snow over the aptly nicknamed Windy City. Average highs in the winter are in the low 30s with lows in the teens. Shingle rated for high wind conditions could be important for homeowners along the lakeshore. Summers are humid and hot with average highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s.

Roofer Training Programs in the Windy City

The Chicago Roofers Joint Apprenticeship & Training Program provides on-the-job training and classroom instruction for a five-year, 5,500-hour period. Apprentices are paid while working and learning the skills needed for a career in roof installation, maintenance, and repair. The program, in place since 1945, is approved by a number of government agencies and labor unions.

Roofer Licensing in Chicago

Roofing contractors must be certified by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation. The state provides a website where consumers can verify that a contractor is licensed to perform roofing work.

Roofing Contractor Trade Organizations

The Chicago Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA) brings together contractors, manufacturers, distributors, manufacturer representatives and consultants involved in the roofing and waterproofing trades and related products. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) lists roofing contractors for the Chicago area so that consumers may identify individuals and companies as well as their contact information.

Rooftop Recreation in Chicago

A well-loved building in Chicago, also known for its history, is Wrigley Field, the home of the Chicago Cubs. A club of building owners that surround the ballpark was created to successfully fight the ballclub�s attempts to inhibit their unobstructed views of the ballpark. As a result of a later revenue sharing program with the Cubs, 17 rooftops are considered "official Cubs rooftop partners" and sell tickets to watch the games from an aerial view.

Roof, a bar atop The Wit hotel in the Loop, offers indoor and outdoor seating, a music D.J. and valet parking. The restaurant serves Italian food and the full bar serve drinks for $10 to $15. The new entertainment locale is attracting many people and so lines are reported to be around the block on popular nights. The spectacular view of the Chicago skyline is the prime reason for going to the Roof.

Chicago's Famous Rooftop Gardens

The Chicago City Hall garden, on the building's 11-story roof, was first planted in 2000 (as a demonstration project to test the benefits of green roofs and how they affect temperature and air quality). Some 20,000 plants of more than 100 species were chosen for qualities that would permit them to thrive in full sun exposure, wind, and arid conditions. The garden can be seen from surrounding office buildings but is not open for public tours.