Most shingle roofs in Chicago last 20 to 30 years. Torch-down flat roof: 10-20 years.
3-tab shingles
15 to 20 years
Flat, single-layer shingles. Common on older homes.
Architectural shingles
20 to 30 years
Thicker, layered shingles. The most common roof today.
Impact-resistant shingles
25 to 30+ years
Built to hold up better against hail.
Torch-down flat roof
10-20 years
How to find your roof's age
- Check your closing papers.
- Ask the previous owner or long-time neighbors.
- Look up the permit history with the City of Chicago.
- Ask us. We can estimate it during the inspection.
What makes a roof wear out sooner
- Poor installation
- An attic that can't breathe
- Hail and wind
- Chicago freeze and thaw
- Clogged gutters and no upkeep
Age is only part of the story. A 25-year-old roof can have years left, and a 10-year-old roof can fail early.