Best Metal Roofing in Illinois Ranked

For Illinois homeowners, choosing a roof is a critical decision that must stand up to the state's full range of weather extremes-from humid, stormy summers to frigid, snowy winters. A metal roof offers a compelling solution, combining exceptional durability with long-term energy efficiency. While the initial investment is higher than traditional asphalt shingles, the potential for a 40- to 70-year lifespan and significant utility savings makes it a valuable upgrade for many properties across the Prairie State. This guide covers the key considerations, from material choices and costs to Illinois-specific building codes, to help you make an informed decision.

Anchor Point Roofing

3104 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

Anchor Point Roofing is a roofing company based in Chicago, IL, serving both residential and commercial clients. They provide a wide range of services including roof installation, repair, replacement, and inspections, specializing in asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and flat roofing systems. As a Malarkey-certified contractor, they use durable roofing products and employ skilled technicians to ensure quality workmanship. Their expertise includes flat roof replacements and shingle repair, with a focus on addressing issues caused by Chicago's weather conditions. Anchor Point Roofing offers detailed roof assessments and flexible financing options to support their customers' roofing needs.

5.0

224 Reviews

Hamstra Roofing

22823 Mustang Rd, Frankfort, IL 60423

Hamstra Roofing is a roofing contractor based in Joliet, IL, with over 45 years of experience in residential, multi-family, and new construction roofing. They provide services including roof installation, replacement, leak repair, roof inspections, and certifications. Known for their in-house sheet metal shop, they fabricate custom metal roofing components such as flashing and decorative accents. Hamstra Roofing has completed more than 100,000 roof leak repairs and 24,000 roof installations, emphasizing durable, code-compliant roofing systems. They also offer 24/7 emergency roofing services to address urgent repairs promptly.

5.0

202 Reviews

ReCrafted Roofing Company

205 W Mondamin St Unit A, Minooka, IL 60447

ReCrafted Roofing Company is a roofing contractor based in Joliet, IL, offering a range of services including roof installation, replacement, leak repair, metal roofing, and roof inspections. The company also assists clients with insurance claims to ensure fair coverage and provides 24/7 emergency roofing services. With over 100 combined years of experience in roofing and exterior construction, ReCrafted Roofing emphasizes ethical business practices and customer advocacy under the leadership of founder Kyle Cracraft.

5.0

170 Reviews

Perfect Exteriors Inc.

10S185 Schoger Dr unit 94, Naperville, IL 60564

Perfect Exteriors Inc. is a roofing and exterior contractor serving Chicago, IL, and the surrounding Chicagoland area. They offer a range of services including roof installation, replacement, and repair, metal roofing with standing seam options, roof inspections, and certifications. The company also provides siding repairs and replacements, gutter guard installation, and skylight services. Perfect Exteriors is a licensed and insured family-owned business known for detailed assessments and professional workmanship. They have maintained an award-winning status with the Better Business Bureau and are a GAF-certified contractor, providing extended warranties on materials and labor.

5.0

163 Reviews

Greater Midwest Exteriors

401 Earl Rd Unit E, Shorewood, IL 60404

Greater Midwest Exteriors is a family-owned exterior remodeling company serving Joliet, IL, and the central Midwest. With over 30 years of experience, they provide a wide range of services including roofing installation and replacement, roof leak repair, metal roofing with standing seam, roof inspections, and certification. The company emphasizes quality by using premium materials and offers whole-home exterior solutions including siding, windows, gutters, and storm damage repair. They also specialize in hail and storm damage restoration and work closely with insurance providers to assist clients through the claims process.

4.9

422 Reviews

See more providers in Illinois

Why Choose a Metal Roof for Illinois Weather?

Illinois's climate presents unique challenges for any roofing material. Metal roofing systems are specifically engineered to excel in these conditions, offering advantages that directly address local weather patterns.

• Superior Storm and Hail Resistance: Metal roofs are renowned for their ability to withstand high winds, often rated for gusts up to 140 mph. Many metal panels and shingles also carry a Class 4 hail resistance rating-the highest available-which is a significant benefit in a state prone to severe spring and summer storms. ^{1 2}
• Efficient Snow and Ice Shedding: The smooth, hard surface of a metal roof allows snow and ice to slide off more easily than with asphalt shingles. This minimizes the weight load on your home's structure and reduces the risk of ice dams, which can cause water backup and interior damage. ^{1 2}
• Energy Efficiency and Cool Roof Benefits: During hot Illinois summers, metal roofs reflect a substantial amount of solar radiant heat away from your home, unlike asphalt shingles which absorb it. This "cool roof" effect can lower attic temperatures and reduce cooling costs by an estimated 10-30%. ^{1 3 4} Choosing lighter colors or specially formulated reflective coatings can enhance this energy-saving benefit.

Popular Metal Roofing Systems and Materials

The term "metal roof" encompasses several distinct systems, each with its own aesthetic, performance profile, and price point. The most common types installed in Illinois are:

Standing Seam Metal Roofs

This is a premium, high-performance option characterized by vertical panels that run from the ridge to the eave. The seams where panels join are raised and fastened with concealed clips, creating a clean, modern look and eliminating through-panel fastener holes-a key factor in superior leak protection. Standing seam roofs are highly durable and have a typical lifespan of 40 to 70 years. ^{1 5 6 7 8}

Metal Shingles and Tiles

Ideal for homeowners who want the benefits of metal but prefer a more traditional appearance, metal shingles are designed to mimic the look of asphalt, wood shake, slate, or clay tile. They offer excellent durability and are generally a mid-range price option. Installation can involve either exposed or hidden fasteners, depending on the specific product. ^{9 8 10}

Corrugated Metal Roofing

Recognizable by its classic wavy ridges, corrugated metal is typically an exposed-fastener panel system. It is often the most budget-friendly metal roofing option and is commonly used on agricultural buildings, sheds, and modern-style homes. While very functional, the exposed fasteners require proper installation and maintenance to ensure long-term weathertightness. ^{5 8 11}

Common Metal Roofing Materials

• Steel: The most common material, usually coated with a layer of zinc (galvanized) or an aluminum-zinc alloy (Galvalume) for rust resistance. It's strong, cost-effective, and widely available. ^{5 12 13}
• Aluminum: Naturally corrosion-resistant, making it an excellent choice for homes near Lake Michigan or in areas with high humidity. It is lighter than steel but often comes at a higher cost. ^{5 12 14}
• Copper & Zinc: These are premium, long-lasting metals that develop a distinctive patina over time. They are at the top of the price range but offer unparalleled longevity and a unique aesthetic. ^{5 12}

Understanding Costs for a Metal Roof in Illinois

The cost of a metal roof in Illinois is influenced by material type, panel profile, roof complexity (including pitch, number of valleys, and penetrations like chimneys), and local labor rates, which tend to be slightly above the national average. ¹⁵ Costs are typically quoted per "square" (100 square feet) or per square foot.

Based on current market data, here is a general cost breakdown for a professionally installed metal roof on a typical Illinois home: ^{15 16 9 17}

*Note: A 3,000 sq. ft. roof is a common reference size, roughly equivalent to covering a 2,000 sq. ft. home with a moderately complex roof shape. ^{15 1 16}

While the upfront investment is significant, it's important to weigh it against the product's longevity (often 2-3 times that of asphalt shingles) and potential energy savings, which can offset the cost over time. ¹

Illinois Building Codes and Installation Standards

Illinois does not have a mandatory statewide residential building code, which means regulations are adopted and enforced at the local (municipal or county) level. ^{18 19} Most jurisdictions base their requirements on model codes like the International Residential Code (IRC) or International Building Code (IBC), but they often add amendments.

Key Code Considerations for Illinois Homeowners:

• Permits are Almost Always Required: Replacing your roof will typically require a building permit from your local jurisdiction. Permit fees can range from $250 to $500 or more, depending on your location. ^{15 19}
• Local Variations Matter: Major cities like Chicago have their own detailed building codes with specific requirements for roofing. For example, Chicago has strict guidelines on flashing metal thickness and installation methods. ^{20 21 22} Always check with your local building department before starting a project.
• Installation Must Follow Manufacturer Specs: Building codes universally require that metal roofing be installed in strict accordance with the manufacturer's published instructions. This includes using the correct type of underlayment, fasteners, flashings, and closure pieces. ^{18 23}
• Overlay Rules: Installing a new metal roof over existing asphalt shingles may be permitted if the existing roof is securely attached and only one layer is present. Most codes prohibit having more than two layers of roofing material. Your contractor and local inspector will need to evaluate the condition of your existing roof to determine if an overlay is a viable option. ^{15 19}

Hiring a licensed and insured contractor who is familiar with the specific codes in your Illinois municipality is crucial for a successful, code-compliant installation that will pass inspection.

Maintenance and Long-Term Value

One of the major appeals of a metal roof is its low maintenance requirements. An annual inspection, preferably in the spring or fall, is recommended to check for any debris in valleys or gutters and to ensure flashings around penetrations remain secure. While resistant to moss and mildew, keeping the roof surface clean can help maintain its reflective properties. With proper installation and occasional basic care, a quality metal roof can protect your Illinois home for decades, providing excellent return on investment through durability, energy savings, and increased property value.

Frequently asked questions

Sources