Top Roof Inspection in Des Plaines, Illinois Ranked

A professional roof inspection is a critical evaluation of your home's first line of defense against the elements. In Des Plaines, where seasonal extremes from summer storms to winter freeze-thaw cycles are the norm, a thorough assessment can identify minor issues before they escalate into costly repairs or full replacements. This process involves a detailed examination of exterior components like shingles and flashing, as well as an interior check of the attic for ventilation, insulation, and hidden moisture. Understanding what this service entails, its importance for local weather challenges, and the associated value helps Des Plaines homeowners make informed decisions to protect their investment and ensure their family's safety.

Chicagoland Home Inspectors Inc.

980 N Michigan Ave # 1400, Chicago, IL 60611

Chicagoland Home Inspectors Inc. provides detailed roof inspections and certifications in Chicago, IL. The company emphasizes thorough, focused inspections by dedicating a full day to each property, including extensive use of advanced tools such as thermal imagers, moisture meters, combustion analyzers, and drones with 4K cameras for roof assessments. They also offer comprehensive follow-up consultations via Zoom to discuss inspection findings and repair options. With a history dating back to 1993, they maintain professional standards including Errors and Omissions and General Liability insurance to protect both clients and inspectors.

5.0

802 Reviews

New Edge Improvement, Co.

1230 Louis Ave, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

New Edge Improvement, Co. is a roofing contractor based in Chicago, IL, specializing in roof installation, replacement, repair, and inspection services. They also handle gutter and downspout replacement, siding, soffit, fascia, and window trim work. The company is experienced in managing insurance claims for storm and hail damage, often assisting clients in obtaining approvals for full roof and gutter replacements. Their team uses tools like drones for detailed inspections and documentation to support insurance processes. New Edge Improvement, Co. has a strong track record of working with residential and commercial properties in the Chicago area, providing comprehensive roofing and exterior improvements.

5.0

314 Reviews

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

KG Roofing & Construction Inc.

13825 Kit Ln, Lemont, IL 60439

KG Roofing & Construction Inc. is a family-operated roofing company based near Joliet, IL, specializing in roof installation, replacement, leak repair, and inspections. They serve residential customers in the Joliet area, offering services such as roof tear-offs, wood replacement, gutter and downspout installation, and skylight installation. The company is known for handling complex roofing projects including mansard roofs and older homes with dormers. KG Roofing & Construction Inc. has a skilled crew capable of extensive wood repairs and thorough roof inspections. They have been recognized for their detailed estimates and clear communication throughout the project. The business emphasizes quality workmanship and has experience responding to emergency roof leaks and storm damage repairs.

5.0

192 Reviews

Royal Reserve Roofing

700 Commerce Dr #500, Oak Brook, IL 60523

Royal Reserve Roofing is a roofing contractor serving Naperville, IL, specializing in roof installation, replacement, repair, and inspection services. They assist with storm damage assessments and work closely with insurance companies to help clients secure approvals for roof replacements and repairs. Their team handles everything from initial inspections and insurance claims to obtaining permits and completing installations, including gutters and skylights. The company is experienced in managing hail damage claims and coordinating comprehensive roofing projects to protect homes effectively.

5.0

188 Reviews

See more providers in Des Plaines, IL

Why Roof Inspections Are Essential in Des Plaines

The climate in Northern Illinois presents unique challenges for roofing materials. The frequent freeze-thaw cycles can cause asphalt shingles to become brittle and crack, while high winds common in spring and fall can lift shingles and compromise flashing ^{1 2 3}. Perhaps most notably, Des Plaines is no stranger to hail storms, which can cause immediate granule loss and bruising on shingles that may not lead to leaks for months. A professional evaluation specifically looks for these types of storm damage, which is vital for both maintenance and potential insurance claims. Furthermore, a proper attic inspection checks for adequate ventilation to prevent ice damming in winter-a common issue where heat from an under-ventilated attic melts snow, which then refreezes at the eaves, forcing water back under the shingles ^{4 5}.

Beyond weather, an inspection provides a baseline of your roof's health. Whether you're buying a new home, preparing to sell, or simply following a routine maintenance schedule, a documented assessment gives you a clear picture of your roof's remaining lifespan and any necessary interventions. It's a proactive measure that safeguards against unexpected leaks, structural damage from prolonged moisture, and the steep costs associated with emergency repairs.

What a Comprehensive Roof Inspection Covers

A complete roof examination is a multi-point process conducted by trained professionals. It's designed to be systematic, covering every component that contributes to the roof's integrity and function.

Exterior Inspection

The exterior evaluation is the most visible part of the process. Inspectors safely access the roof on clear, dry days to perform a hands-on assessment ^{1 6}. Key elements checked include:

• Shingles: Inspectors look for granule loss (which appears as bald spots), cracking, curling at the edges, and missing pieces. Granules protect the asphalt from UV rays, so their loss accelerates aging ^{1 7}.
• Flashing: This is the metal material installed around roof protrusions and in valleys. The inspection focuses on areas around chimneys, vents, and skylights for signs of rust, corrosion, damage, or separation that could allow water entry ^{1 4}.
• Gutters and Downspouts: The system is checked for clogs, proper alignment, and damage. Critically, inspectors look for granule accumulation in the gutters, a telltale sign of advanced shingle wear ^{5 8}.
• Soffit and Fascia: These components are examined for rot, pest damage, and proper ventilation intake.
• Overall Structure: The inspector assesses the roof deck for any signs of sagging, uneven planes, or structural weakness that could indicate deeper problems ¹.

Interior and Attic Inspection

This is often the most revealing part of the inspection, especially in Des Plaines homes. Issues inside the attic can pinpoint problems not yet visible from the outside ^{4 5}.

• Ventilation: Proper airflow from soffit vents to ridge vents is crucial. Poor ventilation leads to excessive heat and moisture buildup in summer and contributes to ice damming in winter.
• Insulation: Inspectors check insulation for dampness, compression, and mold growth. Wet insulation loses its R-value and can lead to wood rot on the roof deck.
• Leaks and Moisture: The inspector looks for water stains on the underside of the roof deck (sheathing), on rafters, or on attic walls. They also check for signs of mold, mildew, and any spots where daylight is visible through the roof, indicating gaps ⁷.

Specialized Inspection Methods

For specific concerns, inspectors may employ advanced techniques:

• Infrared/Thermal Imaging: This technology detects temperature differences to identify hidden moisture trapped within the roof layers or insufficient insulation, often used for flat roofs or after suspected storm damage ^{9 10}.
• Drone Inspection: For roofs that are exceptionally steep, high, or complex, drones provide a safe and detailed visual record without requiring physical access to every square foot ¹⁰.

Common Roofing Materials in Des Plaines and What Inspectors Look For

While asphalt composition shingles are the most prevalent roofing material in Des Plaines, inspectors are trained to evaluate all common types:

• Asphalt Shingles: The focus is on granule loss, cracking, and curling. Inspectors also check for "bruising" from hail, which appears as dark spots where the impact has damaged the fiberglass mat underneath ^{2 3}.
• Metal Roofing: Inspection involves looking for loose fasteners, seam integrity, and any signs of corrosion or paint failure. The expansion and contraction from temperature swings are also considered.
• Tile Roofing (Less Common): Inspectors check for cracked or broken tiles and the condition of the underlayment, which is critical for waterproofing.

Understanding Roof Inspection Costs in Des Plaines

The cost of a roof assessment in Des Plaines can vary based on the roof's size, pitch, complexity, and the type of inspection performed ^{11 9}.

• Basic Visual Inspection: Typically ranges from $100 to $300. Many local roofing contractors offer this basic inspection for free if you are considering them for repair or replacement work ^{11 9}.
• Detailed / Infrared Inspection: For a more in-depth analysis using moisture meters or thermal imaging, homeowners can expect to pay between $300 and $600 or more. This is often recommended for older roofs, after severe weather events, or when buying a home ^{9 10}.
• Drone-Assisted Inspection: This service usually falls in the range of $150 to $400, providing high-resolution imagery and is ideal for large or complex properties ¹⁰.

It's important to obtain a clear scope of work for any quoted price. A reputable inspector will provide a detailed report with photographs, noting the condition of each component and recommending any necessary repairs or maintenance.

The Inspection Report and Next Steps

Following the inspection, you should receive a comprehensive written report. This document is your roadmap for maintenance. It will categorize findings, often noting items that require immediate attention, items to monitor, and components that are in satisfactory condition. Use this report to:

1. Prioritize Repairs: Address any active leaks, structural concerns, or major storm damage immediately.
2. Plan and Budget: For issues that are not urgent, the report helps you plan and budget for future repairs or eventual replacement.
3. Document for Insurance: In the case of storm or hail damage, the inspection report serves as professional documentation to support an insurance claim.
4. Maintain Records: Keep the report for your home maintenance files. It's valuable for future inspections and can be a selling point when you decide to put your home on the market.

Frequently asked questions

Sources