When replacing or repairing a roof in Illinois, homeowners must follow specific building codes to ensure safety, durability, and compliance with local regulations. Failing to meet these codes can result in fines, failed inspections, or costly rework. At Caliber Roofing, we make sure every roofing project meets Illinois’ requirements, so you don’t have to worry.
Why Are Roofing Codes Important?
Building codes are designed to:
✅ Protect homeowners from poor workmanship
✅ Ensure roofs can withstand Illinois’ extreme weather
✅ Prevent water damage, leaks, and structural issues
✅ Maintain neighborhood aesthetics and property values
Each city and village in Illinois may have slightly different roofing codes, so checking local requirements is essential before starting a project.
Key Illinois Roofing Codes Homeowners Should Know
1. Tear-Off vs. Roof Overlay Rules
Illinois allows for up to two layers of asphalt shingles. If your home already has two layers, a complete tear-off is required before installing a new roof. This is important because adding too many layers can cause excess weight and lead to structural damage.
Caliber Roofing Tip: Even if a second layer is allowed, we always recommend a tear-off for better long-term durability and warranty coverage.
2. Ice & Water Shield Requirements
Due to Illinois’ freezing winters, an ice and water shield is required along the roof’s eaves to prevent leaks caused by ice dams. Many municipalities, including Chicago, Plainfield, and Orland Park, mandate this protective underlayment.
What You Need to Know:
• The shield must extend at least 24 inches inside the exterior wall.
• Some areas require ice and water protection in valleys, around chimneys, and skylights.
3. Proper Roof Ventilation
Adequate attic ventilation is a crucial part of Illinois roofing codes. Poor ventilation can cause:
❌ Mold and mildew growth
❌ Higher energy costs
❌ Shingle damage due to trapped heat
Most codes require a balanced ventilation system, meaning intake vents (soffits) and exhaust vents (ridge or box vents) must work together to allow proper airflow.
Caliber Roofing Tip: We assess your home’s ventilation needs to ensure compliance and maximize roof longevity.
4. Flashing & Drip Edge Requirements
Flashing is required around roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, and skylights. A drip edge must also be installed along eaves and rakes to prevent water from seeping under shingles.
Many insurance companies won’t cover leaks if flashing and drip edges are missing or improperly installed.
Caliber Roofing ensures that all flashing is secured with proper techniques to prevent future issues.
5. Decking & Insulation Standards
If the roof decking (the wood beneath your shingles) is rotted or unstable, it must be replaced before a new roof is installed. Additionally, some municipalities, like Palos Heights, have specific insulation requirements to improve energy efficiency.
For example:
• Some areas require a minimum of 6 inches of insulation.
• Older homes may need decking reinforcement to support modern roofing materials.
6. Permits & Inspections
Most Illinois cities require a permit for roofing projects, especially for full replacements. Inspections are also needed before and after installation.
• Permits ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.
• Homeowners are responsible for obtaining the permit, but Caliber Roofing handles the process for you.
• Skipping permits can result in fines or forced roof removal.
Example: In Burbank, Illinois, roofing work without a permit could lead to delays and additional costs. That’s why we always pull the necessary permits before starting a project.
7. Does Your Insurance Cover Code Upgrades?
Building codes change over time, and if your home’s roof doesn’t meet current Illinois roofing codes, you may need to pay out-of-pocket for required upgrades—unless your insurance policy includes ordinance and law coverage.
What is Ordinance & Law Coverage?
This type of coverage helps pay for extra costs required to bring your home up to code after a covered loss. For example:
✅ If your city requires a full tear-off instead of a second layer, your insurance may not cover the extra labor and disposal fees unless you have this coverage.
✅ If your home needs more insulation or additional ventilation, those costs could be out of pocket.
✅ If your existing decking is too thin and needs to be replaced to meet current code, standard policies may not cover it.
What Should Homeowners Do?
✔️ Check your policy for ordinance and law coverage.
✔️ Ask your agent if your policy covers required code upgrades.
✔️ Work with a public adjuster (like us!) if your insurance denies necessary code-related costs.
At Caliber Roofing, we fight to ensure insurance companies pay for everything they should—including required code upgrades. If your insurance is lowballing your claim or refusing to cover necessary repairs, we can help!
How Caliber Roofing Ensures Code Compliance & Fights for You
At Caliber Roofing, we handle everything from permits to final inspections, ensuring your new roof is:
✅ Fully compliant with Illinois and local building codes
✅ Built to last with high-quality materials
✅ Properly ventilated and protected against leaks and weather damage
✅ Installed by experienced professionals
✅ Covered by insurance as much as possible
If you’re considering a roof replacement or repair, let us handle the details so you don’t have to worry about building codes or compliance issues.
Need a Roofing Inspection? Contact Caliber Roofing Today!
Whether you’re dealing with an insurance claim, storm damage, or an aging roof, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us today for a free roof inspection and estimate!