Your Complete Guide to Roof and Siding Upgrades
When planning a major exterior renovation, many homeowners search online for roofers and siding near me, hoping to streamline their project. While coordinating both upgrades is smart, the first—and most critical—step is choosing a local roofing company with proven expertise. A properly installed roof safeguards everything beneath it, protects your investment in new siding, and delivers an instant boost to curb appeal.
At Adept Construction, we focus exclusively on roofing. That singular focus means every member of our crew is trained to spot structural issues, recommend the best materials for Chicagoland’s climate, and install systems that stand up to decades of freeze–thaw cycles. Even if you intend to refresh your siding soon, taking care of the roof first prevents accidental damage to brand-new panels and ensures your entire exterior envelope works together.
Beyond protection, a roof drives energy efficiency. Modern shingles and underlayment act as a thermal barrier, helping your HVAC system work less in both sweltering summers and frigid winters. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, proper roofing and insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 15%. Pair that performance with updated siding and insulation, and you could see meaningful savings on monthly utility bills—often an overlooked benefit when budgeting exterior upgrades.
Homebuyers notice roofs, too. According to the National Association of Realtors, a new roof can recoup more than 100 percent of its cost at resale in some markets. That means the dollars you invest today can translate directly into future home value, making a roof replacement one of the smartest remodeling choices you can make.
The roofing industry has evolved significantly over the past decade, with manufacturers developing more durable materials and improved installation techniques. Today’s architectural shingles offer improved wind resistance, better granule adhesion, and longer warranties than ever before. These advances mean that when you invest in a quality roof today, you’re getting technology that wasn’t available to homeowners just a few years ago.
Finally, Adept Construction offers complimentary consultations. We’ll inspect your existing roof, explain material options, and provide a written, no-obligation estimate so you can plan confidently.
What Makes a Great Roofing Contractor:
- Licensed and Insured: Verifiable credentials and full insurance coverage to protect you and your property.
- Manufacturer Certifications: Elite certifications from top brands like GAF and CertainTeed, which indicate advanced training and access to superior warranties.
- Proven Local Track Record: A deep portfolio of completed projects and positive references from homeowners in your community.
- Clear and Consistent Communication: A dedicated project manager who keeps you informed from the initial inspection to the final cleanup.
- Comprehensive Warranties: Strong guarantees that cover both the roofing materials and the quality of the installation labor.
Even if you plan on replacing your siding, addressing the roof first is often the wisest course of action. A roof replacement can be a messy job, and it’s better to risk scuffing up old siding than damaging a brand-new installation. Most roofing repairs cost between $380 and $1,800, but investing in a quality roofing specialist ensures the longevity of all your exterior upgrades. The key is to hire a dedicated expert who understands how the entire roofing system works to protect your home.
When considering the timing of your exterior upgrades, it’s important to understand that roofing work involves heavy materials, potential debris, and equipment that could damage freshly installed siding. Professional roofers take precautions to protect existing surfaces, but starting with the roof eliminates any risk to new siding materials. Additionally, proper roof installation requires precise flashing work where the roof meets walls—work that’s easier to complete before siding installation.
I’m Gerald Michaels, founder and president of Adept Construction, Inc. Since 1997, my team and I have been serving homeowners across Chicago’s suburbs. With nearly three decades focused on roofing, I’ve learned that a superior roof is the foundation of a secure and beautiful home exterior. We are committed to providing that security for every client we serve.
Know your roofing terms:
What to Expect from Your Local Roofing Specialist
When you begin searching for roofers and siding near me, you’re preparing for a significant home improvement. Siding certainly boosts curb appeal, but your roof remains the primary shield against wind, precipitation, and heat loss. At Adept Construction, Inc., we’ve earned a reputation for meticulous craftsmanship through our quality residential roofing services. Below, you’ll find an overview of the core solutions we provide, the materials we recommend for Chicagoland weather, and tips for coordinating multiple exterior upgrades.
Core Roofing Services We Offer
Roof Replacement: This comprehensive service involves removing all existing roofing materials down to the deck, inspecting the underlying structure, and installing a brand-new, integrated roofing system. Homeowners in communities like Downers Grove and Naperville appreciate our transparent process, detailed daily cleanups, and turnkey warranties. Our roof replacement process begins with a thorough inspection of your existing roof structure, including the decking, rafters, and ventilation systems. We then provide detailed documentation of any structural issues that need addressing before installation begins.
Roof Repair: A few missing shingles today can evolve into interior water damage tomorrow. Our technicians quickly diagnose leaks, flashing failures, and storm-related damage, extending the life of your current roof while protecting your home’s framing and insulation. Whether you need roof repair in Downers Grove or roof repair in Naperville, our team responds quickly to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
New Roof Installation: Building an addition or custom home? We collaborate with architects and general contractors to design, stage, and install roofing systems that improve architectural style while meeting local code requirements. Our roof installation services ensure your new construction is protected from day one.
Storm Damage Assessment: After hail or high-wind events, damage isn’t always visible from the ground. Our trained inspectors document issues thoroughly, supply photos for insurance claims, and recommend the most cost-effective path to full restoration. Our storm damage services include working directly with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive fair compensation for necessary repairs.
Popular Roofing Materials for Chicagoland Homes
Selecting the right material influences your project budget, long-term maintenance, and resale value. Below is a quick comparison of three homeowner favorites:
| Material Type | Durability/Lifespan | Cost (Relative) | Aesthetics | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | 20-30 years | Moderate | Classic, versatile | Budget-friendly, wide color palette, proven performance |
| Composite Shingles | 40-50+ years | High | Mimics slate or wood | Superior impact resistance, minimal upkeep, often backed by 50-year warranties |
| Cedar Shake | 20-40 years | High | Natural, rustic beauty | Excellent insulation, timeless appearance, naturally resistant to insects |
Asphalt Shingles: Still the most popular choice nationwide, modern architectural shingles provide a dimensional, high-end look and withstand Chicagoland wind gusts up to 130 mph when properly installed. These shingles offer excellent value for homeowners seeking reliable protection without breaking the budget. The latest asphalt shingle technology includes improved granule formulations that resist algae growth and maintain color longer than previous generations.
Composite Roofing: These engineered shingles emulate slate or cedar without the weight or maintenance demands. Their improved impact rating makes them a strong candidate for hail-prone suburbs. Composite roofing systems often come with Class 4 impact ratings, the highest available, which can qualify homeowners for insurance discounts in many areas.
Cedar Shake Roofing: Celebrated for natural charm, cedar shake roofing offers outstanding thermal performance. With regular inspections and maintenance, a cedar roof can deliver decades of service and a distinct architectural statement. Cedar naturally contains oils that repel insects and resist decay, making it an environmentally friendly choice for discerning homeowners.
Understanding Roofing System Components
A quality roof involves more than just the visible shingles. The complete roofing system includes several critical components working together:
Underlayment: This waterproof barrier sits directly on the roof deck, providing a secondary layer of protection against moisture infiltration. Modern synthetic underlayments offer superior tear resistance and UV protection compared to traditional felt paper.
Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation prevents ice dams in winter and reduces cooling costs in summer. We install ridge vents, soffit vents, and exhaust fans as needed to maintain optimal airflow.
Flashing: Custom-fabricated metal pieces seal vulnerable areas where the roof meets walls, chimneys, or other penetrations. Quality flashing installation is crucial for long-term leak prevention.
Gutters and Downspouts: While not technically part of the roof, these components work with your roofing system to direct water away from your foundation and landscaping.
Coordinating Your Roofing Project with Other Exterior Work
- Proper Sequencing: Replace or repair the roof before installing new siding to avoid scratching fresh panels with falling debris.
- Flashing Integration: Areas where the roof meets vertical walls require precision. We custom-bend flashing to ensure watertight transitions, protecting both sheathing and siding.
- Site Coordination: We communicate daily with other trade partners to maintain an efficient schedule and minimize disruptions to your household routine.
- Aesthetic Harmony: Our consultants can suggest shingle profiles and colors that complement vinyl, fiber-cement, or engineered-wood siding, giving your exterior a cohesive finish.
- Material Delivery Coordination: We schedule material deliveries to avoid conflicts with other contractors and ensure your driveway and yard remain accessible throughout the project.
Why Adept Construction?
- Nearly 30 years of local expertise focused solely on roofing.
- Family-owned values that translate into honest communication and meticulous job-site cleanliness.
- Complimentary, no-pressure estimates so you can budget accurately and make informed decisions.
- Manufacturer certifications that provide access to extended warranties and premium materials.
- Local presence in Downers Grove and Naperville, ensuring quick response times for service calls.
Ready to protect your home and boost its curb appeal? Contact Adept Construction today for a free estimate and find why so many of your neighbors turn to us when it’s time for a new roof. Our comprehensive approach ensures your roofing investment provides decades of reliable protection while enhancing your home’s value and appearance.
