Roofing Materials & Supplies
A strong roof is your home's first defense against Chicago's punishing weather, from lake-effect snow to summer storms. We stock a full selection of asphalt shingles from GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning in architectural and three-tab styles, along with all the underlayment, ice and water shield, flashing, and ventilation products needed for a complete roofing system. Our roofing materials meet the City of Chicago's specific requirements for wind resistance and fire ratings. Whether you are a professional roofer or a homeowner tackling a re-roof, our team will help you spec the right materials for a roof that lasts decades.
Request a Quote
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles protect more American homes than any other roofing material, and we stock the three most trusted brands in the industry: GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning. Our inventory focuses on architectural-grade shingles that provide superior wind resistance, longer warranties, and the dimensional appearance that enhances curb appeal compared to flat three-tab shingles.
GAF Timberline HDZ is America's number-one selling shingle, featuring LayerLock technology that mechanically fuses the shingle layers for exceptional wind resistance up to 130 mph. The StainGuard Plus algae protection keeps the roof looking clean for years, an important consideration in Chicago's humid summer months when blue-green algae can cause unsightly black streaks on unprotected shingles.
CertainTeed Landmark shingles feature a dual-layer construction with a random tab design that creates a natural, dimensional look on the roof. Available in more than 30 colors, Landmark shingles make it easy to find the perfect match for any home style, from classic Chicago bungalows to modern construction. The Max Def color palette provides rich, multi-tonal colors with enhanced shadow lines.
Owens Corning Duration shingles are built with patented SureNail Technology, a tough, engineered fabric strip in the nailing area that provides outstanding holding power and consistent nail placement. This feature is particularly valuable in Chicago's high-wind environment, where proper fastening is critical to shingle performance during storms.
Underlayment & Ice and Water Shield
Beneath every quality shingle roof lies a secondary weather barrier that protects the roof deck from moisture intrusion. We stock both synthetic and traditional felt underlayment products to meet every project specification and budget. Synthetic underlayment like GAF FeltBuster is the modern standard, offering superior tear resistance, lighter weight, and better UV stability compared to asphalt-saturated felt.
Ice and water shield is a self-adhering, rubberized asphalt membrane that seals around nail penetrations to create a completely waterproof barrier. It is required by code at the eaves of every Chicago roof and should be installed in all valleys, around skylights, at pipe penetrations, and along any roof-to-wall intersections. Grace Ice & Water Shield is the original and most widely specified product in this category, and we keep it in stock year-round.
The combination of ice and water shield at the eaves and vulnerable areas with synthetic underlayment across the remainder of the roof deck creates a comprehensive secondary weather barrier that provides backup protection against wind-driven rain, ice dam leaks, and any shingle failures.
Flashing & Drip Edge
Proper flashing is what separates a leak-free roof from one that develops problems within the first few years. We carry a complete selection of aluminum and galvanized steel flashing products including step flashing for roof-to-wall intersections, valley flashing for open valleys, pipe boot flashings for plumbing vents, and drip edge for eaves and rakes.
Step flashing is installed shingle-by-shingle where the roof meets a vertical wall, such as a dormer or second-story wall. Each piece overlaps the one below it, creating a cascading water-shedding system that directs water onto the shingles and off the roof. We stock pre-bent 4x4x8-inch aluminum step flashing that meets the standard size used by most Chicago roofing contractors.
Drip edge is a critical but often overlooked component. It provides a clean, finished edge along the eaves and rakes, directs water into the gutter system rather than allowing it to wick back under the sheathing, and provides a straight reference line for the first course of shingles. We carry drip edge in multiple colors and sizes to match any roof installation.
Roof Ventilation
Proper attic ventilation is essential to the longevity of any Chicago roof. In summer, an unventilated attic can reach temperatures of 150 degrees or more, baking the shingles from below and dramatically shortening their lifespan. In winter, trapped warm, moist air from the living space below condenses on the cold underside of the roof deck, leading to mold growth, rotted sheathing, and ice dam formation.
The most effective ventilation strategy uses a balanced system of intake vents at the soffits and exhaust vents at the ridge. Ridge vent, which we stock in 4-foot sections, runs along the peak of the roof and provides continuous, low-profile exhaust ventilation that is invisible from the ground. Combined with properly sized soffit vents, ridge vent creates a natural convective airflow that flushes heat and moisture from the attic space.
For Chicago homes, we recommend a minimum of 1 square foot of net free ventilation area for every 150 square feet of attic floor area, split evenly between intake and exhaust. Our staff can help you calculate the ventilation requirements for your specific roof geometry and recommend the right combination of products.
Chicago Snow Loads & Ice Dam Considerations
Chicago's design ground snow load is 25 pounds per square foot, and roof framing must be designed to carry this load plus the weight of the roofing materials themselves. Heavy, wet snow events and drifting around dormers and parapets can concentrate loads well above the ground snow figure, which is why proper structural design and adequate sheathing thickness are critical.
Ice dams are one of the most common roofing problems in Chicago. They form when heat escaping from the living space warms the roof deck unevenly, melting snow on the upper portions of the roof while the eaves remain frozen. The meltwater runs down the roof, refreezes at the cold eave edge, and builds up into a dam that traps water behind it. That trapped water can back up under shingles and leak into the home, causing damage to ceilings, walls, and insulation.
The best defense against ice dams is a three-part system: adequate attic insulation to minimize heat loss through the roof deck, balanced soffit-to-ridge ventilation to remove any residual heat, and ice and water shield membrane at the eaves to provide a waterproof barrier where dams are most likely to form. We stock all three components and can help you spec the right products for your home.
Our Roofing Products
GAF Timberline HDZ Shingles
America's #1 selling shingle with LayerLock technology, 130 MPH wind warranty, and StainGuard Plus protection.
CertainTeed Landmark Shingles
Dual-layered architectural shingles with a random tab design that creates a natural, dimensional appearance.
Owens Corning Duration Shingles
SureNail technology provides outstanding grip in high winds, backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
GAF FeltBuster Synthetic Underlayment
Lightweight, durable synthetic underlayment that resists tearing and provides superior weather protection during installation.
Grace Ice & Water Shield
Self-adhering waterproofing membrane for eaves, valleys, skylights, and other vulnerable roof areas.
Aluminum Step Flashing 4x4x8
Pre-bent aluminum step flashing for sealing the intersection of roof shingles and vertical walls.
Ridge Vent 4-Foot Section
Low-profile ridge ventilation that allows hot, moist air to escape from the attic while blocking rain and snow.
Galvanized Drip Edge 2x3
Metal drip edge flashing installed along eaves and rakes to direct water into the gutter system.
Roofing Nail Coil 1-1/4"
Galvanized coil nails for pneumatic nailers, sized for standard asphalt shingle installation.
Pipe Boot Flashing 2"
EPDM rubber pipe boot for waterproofing plumbing vent penetrations through the roof.
What We Offer
- ✓Architectural and three-tab asphalt shingles from top manufacturers
- ✓GAF Timberline HDZ shingles with StainGuard Plus algae protection
- ✓CertainTeed Landmark series in 30+ color options
- ✓Synthetic and felt roofing underlayment
- ✓Ice and water shield membrane for eaves, valleys, and penetrations
- ✓Aluminum and galvanized step, valley, and pipe flashing
- ✓Ridge vent, soffit vent, and attic ventilation systems
- ✓Roofing nails, coil nails, and cap nails
- ✓Drip edge in multiple sizes and colors
- ✓All products meet Chicago building code wind and fire ratings
Ice Dam Prevention in Chicago
Ice dams are among the most damaging and costly roofing problems Chicago homeowners face. They occur when heat escaping from the attic warms the roof deck unevenly. Snow on the upper, warmer sections melts, runs down the roof as water, and refreezes when it reaches the colder eave overhang. This ice accumulates into a ridge — the dam — that traps meltwater behind it. That pooled water backs up under shingles and can leak into the home, damaging ceilings, insulation, walls, and even structural framing.
Chicago is especially prone to ice dams because of its combination of heavy snowfall (average 36 inches annually), extended below- freezing temperatures, and aging housing stock with inadequate attic insulation. Older homes with balloon-framed walls, recessed lights penetrating the attic floor, and bathroom exhaust fans venting into the attic rather than outdoors all contribute to excessive attic heat gain.
The Three-Part Defense System
1. Insulation (R-49)
Bring attic floor insulation to R-49 minimum. This keeps heated air in the living space and out of the attic, so the roof deck stays uniformly cold. Seal all penetrations (pipes, wiring, ductwork, recessed lights) with expanding foam before adding insulation.
2. Ventilation
A balanced system of soffit intake vents and ridge exhaust vents flushes any residual warm air from the attic. Target 1 sq ft of net free area per 150 sq ft of attic floor, split 50/50 between intake and exhaust. Ensure soffit vents are not blocked by insulation — install baffles at each rafter bay.
3. Ice & Water Shield
Self-adhering membrane installed on the roof deck at eaves, valleys, and penetrations. Grace Ice & Water Shield seals around nail penetrations, creating a waterproof barrier even if water backs up under the shingles. Code requires coverage from the eave to at least 24" past the interior wall line.
Drip Edge Requirement: Metal drip edge at the eaves directs snowmelt into the gutter rather than allowing it to wick back under the sheathing by capillary action. The current IRC requires drip edge on all asphalt shingle roofs. We stock drip edge in multiple colors and profiles to match any roof installation.
Chicago Snow Load Requirements
Chicago's design ground snow load is 25 pounds per square foot (psf) as specified in ASCE 7 and adopted by the Chicago Building Code. Roof structures must be designed to support this load in addition to the dead load (weight of roofing materials, sheathing, and framing) and any applicable drift loads. Understanding these requirements is essential for selecting the right roof framing materials.
| Load Type | Value (psf) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Snow Load | 25 psf | Base design snow load for Chicago per ASCE 7 |
| Flat Roof Snow Load | ~18 psf | Reduced from ground load by exposure and thermal factors |
| Drift Load (at parapets) | Up to 40+ psf | Snow drifts pile against dormers, parapets, and higher roof sections |
| Dead Load (shingles) | 2–4 psf | Architectural shingles ~2.5 psf; tile and slate 8–15 psf |
How Different Roofing Materials Handle Snow
Asphalt shingles have a textured surface that holds snow in place until it gradually melts, which distributes the load evenly and prevents dangerous sliding. Metal roofing sheds snow quickly, which reduces long-term load but requires snow guards at eaves to prevent sudden avalanches onto walkways and entry areas. Flat and low-slope roofs used on Chicago's many two- and three-flat buildings are most vulnerable to ponding and drift accumulation, and their framing must account for the full ground snow load plus drift surcharges.
When to Worry About Snow Removal: Residential roofs in good condition can handle Chicago's normal snowfall. After extreme snow events exceeding 24 inches of wet, heavy snow on a flat or low-slope roof, monitor for signs of stress: sagging ceilings, cracking drywall, sticking doors, or visible deflection. Professional snow removal may be needed. Never use metal shovels on an asphalt roof.
Shingle Comparison: 3-Tab vs. Architectural vs. Designer
Asphalt shingles come in three performance tiers, each offering different levels of durability, wind resistance, and aesthetics. Here is a side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right shingle tier for your Chicago roof.
| Feature | 3-Tab | Architectural | Designer / Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per Square (100 SF) | $90–$120 | $120–$180 | $200–$400+ |
| Warranty | 20–25 years | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime + Enhanced |
| Wind Rating | 60–70 mph | 110–130 mph | 130–150 mph |
| Weight per Square | 200–240 lbs | 240–340 lbs | 300–480 lbs |
| Appearance | Flat, uniform tabs | Dimensional, multi-layer | Thick, slate/shake-like |
| Algae Resistance | Optional | Standard (most brands) | Standard |
| Real-World Chicago Lifespan | 12–18 years | 20–30 years | 25–40 years |
Our Recommendation: Architectural shingles deliver the best value for Chicago homeowners. The significant upgrades in wind resistance (130 mph vs. 60–70 mph), warranty coverage, and appearance come at a modest per-square premium over 3-tab. For lakefront homes and high-exposure roofs, designer shingles with enhanced wind and impact ratings provide additional peace of mind.
Roof Ventilation Guide
Proper attic ventilation extends shingle life, prevents ice dams, and controls moisture that can rot sheathing and grow mold. A balanced ventilation system moves air from intake vents at the soffits through the attic space and out through exhaust vents at or near the ridge. Here are the ventilation products we stock and how to size them correctly.
Vent Types
Ridge Vents
Continuous exhaust ventilation running along the roof peak. Low-profile design is virtually invisible from the ground. Provides 18 sq in of NFA (net free area) per linear foot. The most effective exhaust vent type because it ventilates uniformly across the entire attic. Our top recommendation for Chicago roofs.
Soffit Vents
Intake vents installed in the eave overhang. Available in continuous strip vents (best airflow) and individual round or rectangular vents. Must not be blocked by insulation — install polystyrene baffles at each rafter bay to maintain a clear air channel from the soffit to the attic. Critical partner to ridge vents.
Gable Vents
Louvered vents installed in the gable-end walls. Provide cross-ventilation driven by wind. Less effective than soffit-to-ridge systems because they only move air horizontally through the upper attic. Adequate for simple gable roofs but should not be mixed with ridge vents, as they can short-circuit the intake-to-exhaust airflow pattern.
Turbine Vents
Wind-driven rotating exhaust vents. Each 12-inch turbine moves approximately 300 CFM in a 10 mph wind. Effective in Chicago's windy conditions but creates visible rooftop profile. Best for homes where ridge vent is not feasible, such as hip roofs with short ridgelines. Typically 2–4 turbines are needed per average home.
Ventilation Calculation
1:150 Rule (standard): 1 sq ft of NFA per 150 sq ft of attic floor area. For a 1,200 sq ft attic: 1,200 ÷ 150 = 8 sq ft of total NFA, split into 4 sq ft intake + 4 sq ft exhaust.
1:300 Rule (with vapor barrier): If a Class I or II vapor retarder is installed on the warm side of the ceiling, you may use 1 sq ft per 300 sq ft of attic floor. Same 1,200 sq ft attic: 1,200 ÷ 300 = 4 sq ft of total NFA (2 sq ft intake + 2 sq ft exhaust).
NFA (Net Free Area) is the actual open area available for airflow after accounting for screens and louvers. Most vent products list their NFA in the specifications. In Chicago, we recommend using the more conservative 1:150 ratio for maximum ice dam and moisture protection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing
Planning a Roofing Project?
Visit our yard or contact us online for expert help selecting the right shingles, underlayment, and accessories for your Chicago roof. Contractor pricing and delivery available.