Roofing in Back of the Yards
Back of the Yards's housing stock is dominated by flat-roofed properties — two-flats, three-flats, courtyard buildings, and mixed-use storefronts. That means our work here is largely single-ply (EPDM, TPO) and modified bitumen membrane systems, plus the brick-parapet flashing detail work that defines Chicago multi-family roofing.
Back of the Yards is a tightly packed mix of frame workers cottages, brick two-flats, and small mixed-use buildings — most with flat or low-pitch roofs. The housing stock is old (much of it pre-1920) and parapets and chimney details show their age.
Much of Back of the Yards's housing dates to before 1920, which means original framing geometries, masonry parapets, and detailing traditions that modern code books don't fully cover. We know how to work on those buildings without compromising what makes them historic.
Local landmarks nearby: Davis Square Park, Holy Cross Hospital. We often work on properties within walking distance of these locations.
Roof Repair in Back of the Yards
We see the same handful of repair issues across Back of the Yards: workers cottage low-slope shingle replacement; aged parapet wall flashings; chimney rebuild + counter-flashing. Most originate from aged single-ply membrane, parapet wall flashings, or roof drain failures. Our repair process always starts with diagnosis — finding where water actually enters the roof, not just where it shows up inside. Most Back of the Yards repairs complete in a single day. More on our roof repair service →
Roof Replacement in Back of the Yards
When repairs no longer pencil out, a full replacement is the right call. In Back of the Yards, replacement projects are shaped by the local housing stock — back of the yards is a tightly packed mix of frame workers cottages, brick two-flats, and small mixed-use buildings — most with flat or low-pitch roofs. We tear off down to the deck, replace damaged sheathing, install ice-and-water shield well beyond code minimums, and finish with materials matched to the building. Most Back of the Yards single-family replacements complete in 1–3 days; multi-family flat-roof replacements typically run 2–5 days. Roof replacement details →
Roof Inspections in Back of the Yards
A Back of the Yards inspection answers the real question: how many years until I need to spend money? We climb the roof, check the attic, and document everything in a written photo report. For Back of the Yards homeowners we recommend a spring inspection (catches winter damage) and a fall inspection (preps for ice-dam season). Real-estate inspections are typically scheduled within 2–3 business days. Inspection details →
Storm Damage Roofing in Back of the Yards
Back of the Yards sits inside the Chicago storm corridor — straight-line winds, hail events, and ice storms all reach this part of the city. After major storms we run free post-storm inspections for Back of the Yards homeowners, document damage to insurance-adjuster standards, and attend the adjuster meeting on the roof. The goal is a fair claim outcome and a properly restored roof. Storm damage process →
Flat Roofing in Back of the Yards
Back of the Yards has a high concentration of flat-roofed two-flats, three-flats, courtyard buildings, and mixed-use storefronts — flat roofing is core to our work here. We install and repair EPDM rubber, TPO, PVC, and modified bitumen systems, and we routinely correct ponding water issues with tapered insulation. Parapet flashings, scupper rebuilds, and brick-to-roof detailing are our daily work in this neighborhood. Flat roofing details →
Commercial Roofing in Back of the Yards
From storefronts to mixed-use buildings to small warehouses, Back of the Yards's commercial properties benefit from a roofing partner who treats the roof as a managed asset, not a one-time install. We offer maintenance programs, capital-planning condition reports, and full TPO/EPDM/PVC installation. Property managers with portfolios in Back of the Yards get consolidated reporting and a dedicated account manager. Commercial roofing →
Emergency Roofing Services in Back of the Yards
When a storm pulls shingles off a Back of the Yards home at 11pm or a flat roof opens up during a downpour, we answer the phone. Our 24/7 line is staffed year-round, and we typically have a tarping crew on-site in Back of the Yardswithin 2–6 hours of a call during active storm events. Insurance documentation starts at the first visit. Emergency response →
Common Back of the Yards Roofing Issues
- Workers cottage low-slope shingle replacement
- Aged parapet wall flashings
- Chimney rebuild + counter-flashing
Adjacent Neighborhoods We Serve
We also work across the surrounding South Side area.
Frequently Asked Questions — Back of the Yards
How much does a new roof cost in Back of the Yards?
Pricing in Back of the Yards tracks the broader Chicago market. Asphalt shingle replacements on single-family homes typically run $12,000–$22,000, two-flat flat-roof replacements run $14,000–$28,000, and standing-seam metal or slate is higher. We provide free written estimates with line-item pricing.
What roof issues are most common in Back of the Yards?
Workers cottage low-slope shingle replacement. Aged parapet wall flashings. Chimney rebuild + counter-flashing.
Do you offer emergency roofing in Back of the Yards?
Yes — 24/7. Our emergency line is staffed year-round and we dispatch tarping crews to Back of the Yards within hours during active storm events.
Do you work with insurance carriers on Back of the Yards storm claims?
Yes. We document storm damage to adjuster standards, attend the adjuster meeting on the roof, and write Xactimate-compatible scopes. We've worked thousands of hail and wind claims across Chicago.
What kind of roof works best on a Back of the Yards two-flat?
For most Back of the Yards two-flats and multi-family buildings, we recommend either EPDM rubber or modified bitumen, with tapered insulation if the existing roof ponds water. Both systems handle Chicago's freeze-thaw cycle well and run 20+ years.
Do you work on historic Back of the Yards buildings?
Yes — Back of the Yards has significant historic housing stock and we coordinate with the Chicago Landmarks Commission when required. We have direct experience restoring slate, copper, and clay tile roofs.
From the Blog — Back of the Yards
- Common Roofing Problems in Back of the Yards Homes
The roof issues we see most often in Back of the Yards — and what causes them.
- Roof Maintenance Tips for Back of the Yards Properties
A seasonal maintenance playbook tuned for Back of the Yards's housing stock.
- Roof Replacement Costs in Back of the Yards
What Back of the Yards homeowners actually pay for a new roof, and what drives the price.