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Shingle Wooden Roof Guide: Why You Should Choose It in Illinois

Wood is a part of nature, and thanks to its soft lines and the silvery-grey tint of antiquity, it blends harmoniously with the landscape. Wooden shingles are a universal roofing material in Illinois. With the help of such material, it is possible to cover a pitched roof of any shape. Local roofing companies have come up with a variety of ways to use wood shingles in classic roofing and modern architecture. In this article, we’ll take a look at everything about wood shingles and why they’re a worthy choice for Chicagoland.

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What Type of Wood Use Roofers in Chicago

wooden roof in Chicago

Why do roofing services near me pay special attention to budget when it comes to wood shingles? That’s because each species can be durable with the right treatment and care. A well-maintained roof can last for decades, providing protection and durability to Chicago homeowners. The following wood species are preferred by experienced roofers for shingles and shakes:

  • Pine is a common and, therefore, inexpensive option in Chicago. As with any coniferous wood, it contains resin but has a high rate of moisture absorption, so it needs annual antiseptic treatment. Pine flooring is not recommended for places with frequent rain.
  • Spruce is almost a complete analog of pine in terms of cedar wood’s cost and performance characteristics. If you are looking for a unique wood for your roof, this one is a good choice.
  • Cedar. Cedar shingles have superior strength, antiseptic properties, and the ability to maintain consistency in size. Cedar has an attractive texture, but aesthetics and quality are more expensive.
  • Aspen. The wood is dense and homogeneous, not prone to cracking. It lends itself well to processing and has a beautiful greyish-silver color, golden in the sun. The wood roof ideas covered with aspen shingles dry quickly after rain, serving a long time without repair.
  • Larch. Larch shingles are expensive, but this is balanced by the material’s advantages: exceptional durability and resistance to moisture. The wood contains natural preservatives, so the coating is resistant to mold, rot, and wood-boring bugs. It will last 50 or more years without any hint of deterioration or deformation.
  • Oak. Oak wood is highly hard, strong, and heavy, and it has beautiful cedar wood colors and textures. However, like all hardwoods, it needs periodic treatment with antiseptics.
Wood TypeCharacteristics Suitability for Roofing
PineSoftwood, light, easy to work with, affordableCommon for roofing, especially in Chicago area residential homes; used in trusses and framing.
SpruceLight, strong, straight-grained, similar to pineUsed for roof framing and sheathing due to its balance of strength and weight.
CedarLightweight, resistant to moisture and decay, aromaticExcellent for shingles, particularly in areas with high humidity or harsh weather.
AspenSoftwood, light, fairly inexpensive, low densityRarely used for roofing directly, but may be used in certain specialty applications.
LarchStrong, durable, resistant to rot, darker colourUsed in certain types of wood for roofing and siding applications, particularly in more rustic settings.
OakHard, dense, very strong, resistant to wear and rotLess common for roofing, but sometimes used in structural beams or for high-end, decorative details.

The type of wood used in the roofing material plays a significant role in the longevity and overall performance of the roof. Proper insulation beneath the roof helps maintain energy efficiency and comfort, especially in extreme temperatures. For a homeowner in the Chicago suburbs or area, choosing the right roofing wood materials can make a significant difference in both the aesthetic appeal and lifespan of your home.

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    Pros and Cons of Cedar Shake Roof

    Before buying a roofing material, it is necessary to get information about its strengths and weaknesses to make an informed choice and figure out what cedar wood is.

    Pros of Cedar Shake Roof

    roof wood in Chicago

    Close-to-me roofing contractors who know firsthand what shingles are in roof construction recommend them because of the following qualities:

    • Versatility and aesthetics. Shingles are suitable not only for roofing. It is used as a finishing material for the curtain facade; in both cases, the house acquires a harmonious and stylish look.
    • Long service life. If the installation technology is followed, the shingled waterproof wooden roof will last 20-25 years. If you care about impregnating the material with a protective composition, the service life increases to 40-45 years.
    • Resistance to external influences. Wooden shingles remain waterproof, resist temperature fluctuations and humidity perfectly, and are not afraid of strong wind and snow.
    • Performance characteristics. Near-me roofers know that shingle demonstrates good noise absorption during rain and hail. The coating is environmentally friendly and remains vapor permeable so that the underlay space preserves natural ventilation and does not form condensation.

    Cons of Wood Shingles Usage in IL

    cedar wood colors in Chicago

    The following disadvantages of the cedar roof picture must be borne in mind:

    • Shingle roofing will be reliable and durable if the wood chosen is of excellent quality, which is always more expensive; it should be remembered that chopped shingles have a significant advantage over sawn shingles.
    • The roof will not have problems throughout its life if you make wooden shingles by the standards and, during installation, follow the technological rules.
    • Self-made shingles – a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. These same properties have the installation of shingled roofing; for a quality result, you need knowledge, skills, and experience.

    Local roofing services near you advise against buying materials in advance Otherwise, the cost of construction can increase several times. Our company, as an experienced contractor in Chicago, knows its business and will perform the roofing with wooden shingles with high quality.

    Wooden surfaces need care, they should be periodically treated with protective compounds to extend the service life. Insect damage can weaken the roof structure, so it is important to treat the material in a timely manner to prevent infestation. With regular care, a wooden roof can last for many years, representing a natural and attractive option for Illinois homeowners.

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    What Is the Best Type of Wood Roof Design?

    A wooden house in Chicago Neighborhoods can be built with a roof where 1, 2 or 4 slopes are provided. Complex roofs are designed with a spire, domes, and conical structures. A multi-pitched wood roof designs has more than 4 slopes. Volumetric wood for roofs are beautiful but complex in execution and maintenance, and cost the customer a lot.

    If the project does not provide a mansard, a good choice will be a single-slope roof. The popularity of simple roofs among developers is growing not only because of the cost savings. Demand for protruding single-pitched roofs is associated with fashion trends and practicality. Under the overhanging roof structure is convenient to locate a recreation area, a terrace with garden furniture, and a swimming pool.

    The roof protects the interior and exterior of the building from precipitation. The longevity and aesthetics of an architectural structure, as well as the comfort of people staying in it, depend on the correct execution of the roof.

    What to Consider When Choosing a Wooden Roof Shingles?

    wood for roofs in Chicago

    Why do close-to-me roofing services care so much about wood? For a number of reasons. Some of the main ones are happiness in the eyes of clients, the capriciousness of the material and the fulfillment of the conditions specified in the contract. Agree, it is not very pleasant to see wet spots on the ceiling after the first rain. After all, moisture ingress can start the rotting process of the properties of cedar wood roof. Therefore, the best wood for roofing requires maintenance.

    When a licensed roofing company in the Chicago suburbs or areas buy wooden shingles from any species of wood (chestnut, cedar, pine, oak, etc.) you can get a best wood for roof that, with the right approach, will last more than sixty years. But seeing beautiful catalogues with beautiful houses of cedar, you can not learn about the disadvantages of wooden roofing. Whoever would not say the same image of cedar wood is a very flammable material, one unfortunate match and cigarette butts will be enough to burn out everything. Accordingly, the insurance of such a house will be much more expensive. There are wooden shingles, which are treated under high pressure and get fire resistance class B and C, but if your house is located near residential high-rises, it is worth thinking about.

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    How to Find the Best Roofer to Install Your Wood Roof Shingles?

    Finding an experienced, reliable roofing expert close to me is like winning a lottery. However, our company is your winning ticket. We offer full-service roofing to the surrounding Chicago area. The quality of work and longevity of the roofing pie depends on the experience and professionalism of the construction team.

    1. Check the experience and reputation of the roofers: determine how long the company has been in the roofing business and what projects they have successfully completed. Review customer testimonials by visiting the company’s website or its social media pages.
    2. Check for all necessary licenses and certificates: make sure the roofer has all the necessary licenses to perform work in your area.
    3. Check for insurance: make sure that the company has insurance for possible damages during the job.
    4. Write down detailed requirements and get a written estimate: ask the roofer all the questions regarding your needs and preferences. Ask them to provide a written estimate, which should include all details and the cost of the work.

    If you have decided to make your home eco-friendly, don’t skimp on funds, materials, and their quality. Wood is a popular roofing material in Chicago, and high-skill craftsmen have been needed to make houses durable for many years.

    FAQ

    What is the average lifespan of wooden shingles?

    The lifespan of wooden shingles can vary based on the type of wood used and maintenance practices. On average, they can last anywhere from 20 to 40 years when properly maintained.

    How should I maintain my wooden shingle roof?

    Maintenance for wooden shingles includes regular inspections for signs of damage, cleaning to remove debris and moss, and treating with sealants or preservatives to protect against moisture and pests. Regular maintenance can help extend the roof’s lifespan.

    Can wooden shingles be installed over existing roofing?

    Wooden shingles can often be installed over existing roofing materials, but proper installation practices and adherence to building codes are essential. It’s advisable to consult with a roofing professional before proceeding.

    Are wood roofs good?

    Yes, wood roofs can be an excellent choice due to their aesthetic appeal, natural insulation properties, and durability when properly maintained. However, they may require more upkeep than other roofing materials and are more susceptible to fire unless treated.

    What wood is used for roofs?

    Common types of wood used for roofs include cedar, redwood, and pine. Cedar is particularly favored for its resistance to rot and insects.

    What is the best wood for roof shingles?

    Cedar shingles or shakes are often considered the best option due to their durability, aesthetic qualities, and natural resistance to decay and pests.

    How long do wood roofs last?

    A: Wood roofs can last between 20 to 50 years, depending on the type of wood, installation quality, and maintenance. Cedar roofs, for example, often last around 30 years.

    Are wooden roofs waterproof?

    Wooden roofs are not inherently waterproof, but they can resist water when installed correctly and maintained. Over time, they can absorb moisture, so proper sealing and drainage are essential to prevent leaks.