Roofers in Illinois

“Will you remove the existing shingles down to the deck, or install over the old layer?”

Layering shingles over old ones is cheaper but hides underlying damage, adds weight to your roof structure, and voids most manufacturer warranties. A full tear-off is almost always the better investment.

“What underlayment and flashing materials will you use?”

Cheap synthetic underlayment and reused flashing are where corners get cut. Ice and water shield in valleys and around penetrations is critical for leak prevention.

“Do you handle the insurance claim process, and what's your experience with adjusters?”

If the work is storm-related, an experienced roofer can document damage properly and work with your adjuster. But be wary of roofers who want to sign an Assignment of Benefits (AOB) — this gives them control of your insurance claim.

“What warranty do I get — from both you and the manufacturer?”

You should get a workmanship warranty from the roofer (2–10 years) plus a manufacturer warranty on materials (25–50 years). Manufacturer-certified contractors can often offer enhanced coverage.

“How will you protect my landscaping, siding, and property during the job?”

Roof replacement creates a lot of debris. Professional roofers use tarps, magnetic nail sweepers, and dump trailers. Ask about their cleanup process before signing anything.