There are a ton of roofing options out there, but have you heard of composition roofing?
It might not be the flashiest option on the market, but it’s one of the most dependable—especially in the Midwest, where roofs take a beating from snow, hail, and high heat (sometimes all in the same week).
In areas like Northwest Indiana, Chicagoland, and southern Wisconsin—where weather patterns swing fast and hard—composition shingles have become a go-to solution. They’re budget-friendly, low-maintenance, and designed to perform in just about any season.
If you’re looking for a roof that pulls its weight year-round without draining your wallet, this option might be exactly what you need.
Here’s what to know before you decide.
Key Takeaways
- Composition roofs are made of asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules, designed for strength and flexibility.
- They’re a great fit for Midwest homes thanks to their durability in snow, rain, and extreme temperatures.
- Styles like 3-tab, architectural, and luxury offer both function and curb appeal.
- Proper installation, like attic ventilation and ice shielding, is key to long-term performance.
- They’re affordable, low-maintenance, and easy to repair, making them a smart investment for homeowners.
What Exactly is a Composition Roof?
A composition roof is made of layered materials: a fiberglass or organic mat base, asphalt coating, and a top layer of mineral granules. The result is a strong, flexible shingle that stands up well to weather.
Compared to wood shake, slate, or metal roofing, composition shingles are lighter, more affordable, and easier to install, without sacrificing durability or curb appeal.
There are three main types of composition shingles:
- 3-tab shingles – Flat and uniform, budget-friendly.
- Architectural (laminate) shingles – Thicker and more dimensional.
- Luxury shingles – Styled to look like slate or wood at a lower cost.
GAF, a leading U.S. roofing manufacturer, highlights architectural shingles as a top choice for homeowners wanting both performance and style, especially in weather-heavy regions like the Midwest.
Why Composition Roofing is a Popular Choice in the Midwest
Midwestern weather is no joke—snow in the winter, storms in the spring, heatwaves in the summer.
That’s why homeowners across Northwest Indiana, Chicagoland, and Wisconsin are leaning toward roofing that can keep up. They offer a reliable, cost-effective solution that doesn’t sacrifice looks or longevity.
Here’s why they’re a standout option for Midwest living:
- Built for All Seasons – Designed to perform in harsh climates, composition shingles hold up well against wind gusts, heavy downpours, hail, and the deep freeze of Midwest winters.
- Budget-Friendly Durability – They deliver dependable protection without the hefty price tag of premium materials like metal or slate, making them ideal for cost-conscious homeowners.
- Stylish and Versatile – Whether you live in a modern home in Kenosha or a historic brick bungalow in Northwest Indiana, these shingles come in a variety of textures and colors to match.
- Simple to Maintain – Homeowners appreciate the minimal roof maintenance required for a composition roof; even if a shingle gets damaged, it can be replaced individually with minimal hassle.
- Easy to Source and Install – Since they’re widely available and familiar to contractors, composition shingles can speed up your roofing project and lower labor costs.
What Midwest Homeowners Should Know About Composition Roof Installation
Installing a composition roof in the Midwest isn’t just about nailing down shingles; it’s about protecting your home from some of the most unpredictable weather patterns in the country.
From freezing winters to sudden spring thaws, your roof system needs to be thoughtfully installed to perform year-round.
Here are a few key factors that matter most during installation:
Ice and Water Shielding
Underlayment is critical in cold climates. In areas like Madison, WI, where ice dams are common, an extra protective layer beneath the shingles helps prevent water from backing up under the roof and causing leaks.
Slope Matters
Composition shingles work best on steeper slopes, which allow snow and rain to shed more effectively. Low-slope roofs, like those found on some older homes in Northwest Indiana, may need additional waterproofing support or a different shingle type altogether.
Attic Ventilation
Without proper airflow, moisture can build up in the attic, leading to mold, rot, or ice dams. In Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, this is especially important during winter freeze-thaw cycles.
Flashing and Edges
Properly installed flashing around chimneys, valleys, and roof edges helps divert melting snow and rain, reducing the risk of leaks. This is especially helpful in areas like Valparaiso, IN, where spring runoff can be heavy after snow melts.
Taking shortcuts during installation might not show up right away, but in a region like the Midwest, the long-term cost of missing the details can be far greater than the upfront savings.
Is a Composition Roof Right for Your Home?
If you live in the Midwest and need a roof that’s tough, affordable, and reliable in all seasons, composition shingles should definitely be on your radar.
But remember—it’s not just about picking the right material. The installation has to match your home’s layout and your region’s weather quirks. From attic airflow in Grayslake to waterproofing in Calumet City, local experience makes all the difference.
Stay Ahead of Midwest Weather with a Roof That Works Hard
Midwest weather is unpredictable, and your roof needs to be ready for anything—icy build-up, high winds, or heavy rain. A well-installed composition roof gives you reliable protection without the sky-high price tag of premium materials.
At M&M Home Remodeling Services, we help homeowners throughout Chicagoland, Northwest Indiana, and southern Wisconsin choose roofing systems that make sense for their home, climate, and budget.
Let’s make sure your home is ready for whatever the Midwest throws at it. Call us today at (800) 930-2905 for a free, no-pressure estimate.
