Jones & Cleary's Roofing Expertise

Since 1920, Jones & Cleary has been a proven leader in Chicago’s demanding roofing market.  During our 90 year history we have successfully installed roofing systems for heavy industrial complexes, hi-rises, apartment buildings, universities, cathedrals, and historic landmarks.

We specialize in the installation and maintenance of these roofing systems:

Built-up asphalt (BUR): 

These roofing systems are field fabricated with alternating layers of reinforcing felts and hot asphalt.  After the desired number of layers are built up, a flood coat of hot asphalt and gravel is applied as a protective barrier.  

A key advantage of the BUR system is the redundancy of layers in the waterproofing material.

Modified Bitumen (MB) : 

Much like BUR systems, MB systems are composed of multiple layers of waterproofing plies.  These plies (or rolls) are manufactured by layering bitumen onto reinforcing mats of polyester or fiberglass. Polymers are then added to the bitumen to increase the durability and longevity of the membrane.  

MB systems can be installed in many different ways, such as a cold-applied adhesive mopped down with hot asphalt, or heat-welded in place.  There are also several surfacing options, ranging from a smooth, granulated surface to heat-reflective acrylic coatings. 

Materials used in MB systems:

• Attactic Polypropylene (APP)
• Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS)

Single Ply: 

These membranes are a popular choice for low-slope roofs due to their light weight, easy installation and heat-reflective qualities.  Single ply membranes can be fully adhered, mechanically attached or ballasted in place. 

The three most common singly ply roofing materials are: 

• Thermo-Plastic Olephine (TPO)
• PolyVinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

Liquid Applied Roof Coatings: 

These systems are often used on green roofs and plaza decks. They generally consist of a two-part liquid (catalyst & resin) that is fully adhered to a prepared and primed substrate. Durability and longevity are improved by adding a reinforcing fleece or scrim to the membrane, which is seamless once the application is complete.  

Cold applied liquid membranes can be integrated into a modified bitumen roof system and are a superior choice for odd-shaped roof penetration flashings. They may also be applied side to side. These sustainable roofing systems have low VOC emissions and efficiently reflect UV radiation.

Steep Slope Roofs: 

The roofs of historic and religious facilities often have very steep slopes. Experience and craftsmanship are of utmost concern on these projects, as details can be challenging and intricate.  The appearance of the finished product is just as important as its function.  

Our skilled sheet metal workers at Jones & Cleary are capable of fabricating architectural sheet metal and standing seams that fit the exact specifications of your structure, such as:

• Standing Seams
• Natural Slate
• Tile Shingles
• Artificial Slate   

Contact Jones & Cleary Roofing and Sheet Metal for more information on roofing systems used in the Chicago area.