Frequently Asked Questions
Honest answers from a 21-year exterior remodeling veteran. Siding, roofing, windows, gutters, storm damage, and insurance claims — all in one place.
Your Exterior Remodeling Questions, Answered
We’ve been answering homeowner questions at kitchen tables across Crystal Lake, McHenry, Huntley, Algonquin, and the rest of McHenry County since 2005. These are the questions that come up most often — about materials, pricing, timelines, insurance claims, and how we do things differently. If you don’t see your question here, contact us and we’ll get you a straight answer the same day.
General FAQs
Who is Innovative Home Concepts?
Innovative Home Concepts is a women-led, family-owned exterior remodeling contractor based in Crystal Lake, Illinois. We’ve been serving McHenry County and the surrounding area since 2005, specializing in siding, roofing, windows, gutters, and storm damage restoration. Three generations of our family have worked in the home improvement trade.
How long has IHC been in business?
We’ve been in business since 2005 — 21 years at the same Crystal Lake location with the same phone number. We’re not a pop-up storm chaser or a franchise that showed up last year. Our owner has over two decades of hands-on exterior remodeling experience in McHenry County.
What areas does IHC serve?
We serve McHenry County and northern portions of Kane and Lake Counties. That includes Crystal Lake, McHenry, Huntley, Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Cary, Woodstock, Barrington, Libertyville, and dozens of other communities within roughly 30 miles of our office. See our full areas we serve page for the complete list.
Is IHC licensed and insured?
Yes. IHC holds Illinois Roofing Contractor License #104.015093 and carries full general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. We pull permits for every project that requires them per McHenry County building codes. We’re happy to provide proof of insurance to any homeowner before work begins.
What certifications does IHC hold?
IHC holds five manufacturer certifications: Andersen Elite (windows and doors), James Hardie Preferred (fiber cement siding), CertainTeed ShingleMaster (roofing), LP SmartSide Preferred (engineered wood siding), and GutterShutter Exclusive (gutter protection). Each certification requires documented training, verified installation history, and ongoing performance standards — they aren’t pay-to-play badges.
How many reviews does IHC have?
We have over 380 Google reviews with a 4.6-star average rating, including 311 five-star reviews. We don’t pay for reviews or offer discounts in exchange for them — every review came from a real homeowner who chose to share their experience. You can read them on our Google Business Profile.
What makes IHC different from other contractors?
Three things: certifications, public adjusting, and longevity. Most exterior contractors in McHenry County hold zero manufacturer certifications — we hold five. Our sister company, IHC Public Adjusters, is a separately licensed Illinois public adjusting firm that can handle your insurance claim from filing to final payment. And we’ve been at the same address since 2005, which means we’ll still be here when you need warranty service.
Siding FAQs
What is the best siding for homes in Illinois?
James Hardie fiber cement and LP SmartSide engineered wood are the two best options for Illinois homes. Both handle McHenry County’s freeze-thaw cycles, resist hail damage, and won’t warp or melt the way vinyl can. Hardie excels at fire resistance and moisture management. LP SmartSide is lighter and easier to handle during installation, with excellent impact resistance. IHC is a certified installer for both.
James Hardie vs. LP SmartSide — which should I choose?
Both are premium siding products priced at $12–$16 per square foot installed — so cost isn’t a differentiator. Hardie is a cement-based product that’s heavier and extremely fire-resistant. LP SmartSide is an engineered wood product that’s lighter with superior impact resistance. Both carry strong warranties, and IHC installs both with manufacturer-certified crews. Read our detailed head-to-head comparison for the full breakdown.
How long does siding last?
James Hardie fiber cement siding lasts 30–50 years with proper installation and periodic painting (every 15–20 years for factory-primed, longer for ColorPlus). LP SmartSide engineered wood lasts 30–50 years with maintenance every 15–20 years. Premium vinyl lasts 20–30 years. Builder-grade vinyl often fails in 10–15 years, especially on west-facing walls in McHenry County where afternoon sun exposure is intense.
How much does new siding cost in Crystal Lake?
Siding costs in the Crystal Lake area range from $5.50–$7.50 per square foot for builder-grade vinyl up to $16–$22 per square foot for cedar. The most popular options — James Hardie and LP SmartSide — run $12–$16 per square foot installed. Premium vinyl falls at $8–$10. Total project cost depends on your home’s square footage, number of stories, and trim details. Request a free estimate for exact pricing on your home.
Does siding require maintenance?
All siding needs some maintenance. Vinyl should be power-washed annually to prevent mold and algae buildup. James Hardie with ColorPlus factory finish needs repainting every 15–20 years. LP SmartSide requires recoating every 15–20 years depending on sun exposure. Cedar needs the most upkeep — staining or painting every 3–7 years to prevent rot. We recommend an annual visual inspection for any siding type, especially after Illinois storm season.
Can you install siding over existing siding?
We can, but we usually don’t recommend it. Installing over old siding hides potential moisture damage, wood rot, or insect problems underneath. Tearing off the existing siding lets us inspect the sheathing, replace any damaged OSB or plywood, and install a proper moisture barrier. That extra step costs a bit more upfront but prevents expensive hidden damage down the road.
Is vinyl siding still a good option?
Premium vinyl ($8–$10/sqft installed) is a reasonable budget-friendly option — it’s maintenance-free and comes in many styles. But builder-grade vinyl ($5.50–$7.50/sqft) warps, fades, and cracks faster in McHenry County’s temperature extremes, which swing from below zero in January to the mid-90s in July. If your budget allows, fiber cement or engineered wood is a better long-term investment.
Roofing FAQs
How often should a roof be replaced?
Standard architectural shingles like CertainTeed Landmark last 25–30 years under ideal conditions, but McHenry County’s climate — 60+ thunderstorms per year, hail, ice, and 1,000+ freeze-thaw cycles over a roof’s lifetime — often shortens that to 20–25 years. If your roof was installed in the early 2000s, it’s approaching or past its functional lifespan. Premium materials like F-Wave synthetic can last 50+ years.
What are the signs I need a new roof?
The most common signs are: granules accumulating in your gutters, shingles curling or buckling, visible daylight through the attic roof boards, water stains on ceilings, missing shingles after storms, and moss or algae growth. If your roof is over 20 years old and showing any of these symptoms, schedule a free inspection before the next Illinois storm season.
How much does a new roof cost in McHenry County?
For an average-sized home in McHenry County, CertainTeed Landmark architectural shingles run $12,000–$22,000 installed. F-Wave synthetic shingles cost $18,000–$32,000, and Brava composite (slate or shake look) runs $20,000–$38,000. Three-tab shingles are $8,000–$14,000 but offer significantly shorter lifespans. The total depends on roof size, pitch, complexity, and whether deck repairs are needed.
What roofing materials does IHC recommend?
Our standard recommendation is CertainTeed Landmark architectural shingles — they offer excellent durability, a strong warranty, and the best value for McHenry County homes. For homeowners wanting maximum longevity, F-Wave synthetic shingles carry a Class 4 impact rating (highest available) and last 50+ years. Brava composite gives you the look of natural slate or cedar shake without the weight. As a CertainTeed ShingleMaster contractor, we install all three at the manufacturer’s highest warranty tier.
Will a Class 4 impact-rated roof lower my insurance premiums?
Many Illinois insurance carriers offer premium discounts for homes with Class 4 impact-rated roofing. F-Wave and Brava both carry that rating. The discount varies by carrier, but given McHenry County’s hail history, it can be substantial. Ask your insurance agent about available discounts before choosing your roofing material — the savings can offset a meaningful portion of the price difference.
How long does a roof replacement take?
Most residential roof replacements take 2–5 days. A standard 2,000-square-foot home with architectural shingles is typically 2–3 days. Complex roof lines, premium materials like Brava composite, or extensive deck repairs can extend the timeline. Weather delays are common during Illinois storm season (May through September), so we build buffer days into every schedule.
Does IHC handle flat or low-slope roofs?
Yes. We install TPO membranes, elastomeric coatings, and modified bitumen for flat and low-slope applications on both residential and commercial properties. Flat roof systems are common on additions, garages, and commercial buildings along the Randall Road and Route 14 corridors in McHenry County.
Window & Door FAQs
What window brands does IHC install?
We’re an Andersen Elite dealer — the highest certification level Andersen offers. That gives us access to the full Andersen line: 100 Series, 400 Series, A-Series, and E-Series. We also install our proprietary InnoMAXX window system for homeowners looking for premium performance at a lower price point. For budget-friendly projects, we offer the Midway line of vinyl replacement windows.
How much do replacement windows cost?
Replacement window pricing (per window, installed) in the Crystal Lake area: Midway vinyl $600–$800, InnoMAXX $900–$1,100, Andersen 100 Series $900–$1,200, Andersen 400 Series $1,200–$1,600, Andersen A-Series $1,600–$2,500, and Andersen E-Series $2,000–$4,000+. The total project cost depends on window count, sizes, and any structural modifications needed. Request a free estimate for exact pricing.
Should I choose double-pane or triple-pane windows?
For most McHenry County homes, double-pane Low-E windows with argon gas fill deliver excellent energy performance and the best return on investment. Triple-pane makes sense if you’re in a particularly noise-sensitive location (near Route 14 or Randall Road, for example) or if you plan to stay in the home 20+ years and want maximum energy efficiency. Andersen’s A-Series and E-Series offer triple-pane configurations.
How long does a window replacement project take?
A typical whole-home window replacement (10–20 windows) takes 2–4 days of installation time. Each individual window takes about 1–2 hours to remove and install properly. Lead times for ordering can vary — Andersen custom orders typically take 4–8 weeks from order to delivery, while in-stock InnoMAXX and Midway windows ship faster.
How much can I save on energy bills with new windows?
Homeowners replacing single-pane or failed double-pane windows typically see a 15–30% reduction in heating and cooling costs. In McHenry County, where winter heating bills can top $300/month for older homes, that translates to meaningful annual savings. New Low-E glass with argon gas fill blocks UV rays that fade furniture while keeping conditioned air inside.
What types of windows does IHC offer?
We install double-hung, casement, awning, sliding, bay, bow, picture, and specialty-shape windows. Double-hung is the most popular style in McHenry County — both sashes tilt in for easy cleaning, which matters in a two-story Colonial. Casement windows offer the best air seal and are ideal for hard-to-reach spots above kitchen sinks or counters.
Does IHC install entry doors and patio doors?
Yes. We install entry doors, storm doors, and patio doors from ProVia and Albany, as well as Andersen patio door systems (sliding and hinged French). A new entry door is one of the highest-ROI exterior upgrades you can make — it’s the first thing people see, and a properly sealed door eliminates one of the biggest air-leak points in an older home.
Gutter FAQs
Why should I install gutter guards?
McHenry County is heavily wooded — oak, maple, and ash trees shed enormous volumes of leaves every fall. Without gutter guards, you’re cleaning gutters 2–4 times per year or paying someone $150–$300 each time. Clogged gutters cause foundation damage, basement flooding, fascia rot, and landscape erosion. A quality gutter guard system like GutterShutter eliminates the maintenance entirely.
How is GutterShutter different from LeafFilter or other gutter guards?
GutterShutter is a one-piece hooded system that replaces your existing gutters entirely — it’s not a screen or filter that sits on top. The liquid-adhesion design channels water into the gutter while leaves and debris slide off the nose. It carries a lifetime no-clog warranty. Screen-type guards like LeafFilter still require periodic cleaning because fine debris, shingle grit, and pine needles get trapped in the mesh. IHC is a GutterShutter Exclusive installer in our territory.
Seamless gutters vs. sectional — what’s the difference?
Seamless gutters are formed on-site from a single piece of aluminum to the exact length of each run. Sectional gutters come in pre-cut sections that are joined together with seams every 10 feet. Every seam is a potential leak point. We install seamless 5-inch and 6-inch aluminum gutters exclusively — sectional gutters don’t meet our quality standard.
How often should gutters be cleaned?
Without gutter guards, 2–4 times per year is the recommendation for McHenry County — once in late fall after leaves drop, once in spring after seed pods and pollen, and after any major storm. If you have mature trees overhanging your roofline, you may need additional cleanings. With GutterShutter’s lifetime no-clog system, the answer is never.
What is the Raindrop gutter guard system?
Raindrop is a polypropylene gutter guard that installs over your existing gutters. It uses a textured surface with thousands of small openings that allow water through while blocking leaves and debris. Raindrop is a strong mid-range option for homeowners who want gutter protection without replacing their existing gutter system. We install both Raindrop and GutterShutter depending on the homeowner’s needs and budget.
Do gutter guards work in heavy rain?
Quality gutter guards handle heavy rain without issue. GutterShutter is engineered to manage up to 22 inches of rain per hour — McHenry County’s heaviest downpours rarely exceed 2–3 inches per hour. The key is proper sizing (5-inch vs. 6-inch gutters) and correct downspout placement, which we calculate during every estimate.
Storm Damage & Insurance FAQs
What should I do after a storm damages my home?
First, document the damage with photos and video from the ground — don’t get on the roof. Second, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage (tarp a hole, board a broken window) and keep receipts. Third, call IHC at (815) 356-9020 before calling your insurance company. We’ll inspect the damage, document everything, and help you decide whether filing a claim is the right move. Filing prematurely or with incomplete documentation is one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make.
How does the insurance claim process work for storm damage?
After we inspect and document the damage, our sister company, IHC Public Adjusters — a separately licensed Illinois public adjusting firm — can file and manage the claim on your behalf. They handle the paperwork, meet the insurance adjuster on your roof, negotiate the scope, and file supplemental claims if the initial payout is short. You focus on your family; they handle the insurance company. Financial relationship disclosed per 215 ILCS 5/1575.
What is the difference between ACV and RCV on my insurance policy?
RCV (Replacement Cost Value) pays to replace your damaged property with new materials of like kind and quality. ACV (Actual Cash Value) pays the depreciated value — meaning the older your roof or siding is, the less you receive. RCV policies are significantly better for homeowners. If you have an ACV policy, you may owe a substantial out-of-pocket amount. Check your policy declarations page or ask your agent which type you carry.
What does a public adjuster do, and how is that different from my insurance adjuster?
Your insurance company’s adjuster works for them — their job is to settle your claim for as little as possible. A public adjuster works for you and is legally obligated to represent your interests. Our sister company, IHC Public Adjusters, is a separately licensed Illinois public adjusting firm that reviews your policy, documents every line item of damage, and negotiates directly with the carrier. This often results in significantly higher claim payouts. Financial relationship disclosed per 215 ILCS 5/1575.
Does IHC repair all types of storm damage?
Yes. We handle roofing, siding, gutters, windows, trim, soffit, and fascia damage — everything on the exterior of your home. Hail, wind, fallen trees, ice damage — we’ve been restoring storm-damaged homes in McHenry County since 2006. One contractor handles the entire exterior scope, which means one point of contact, one claim, and one project timeline.
Should I get multiple estimates before filing an insurance claim?
You don’t need multiple estimates for an insurance claim — your insurance company sends their own adjuster to determine the scope and payout. What you do need is a contractor who can identify all the damage (insurance adjusters routinely miss items) and a public adjuster who can fight for the full repair scope. Getting three bids is a retail-project strategy; storm damage claims work differently.
How long do I have to file a storm damage claim in Illinois?
Most Illinois homeowner policies require claims to be filed within one to two years of the damage event, but the sooner you file, the stronger your case. Waiting allows the insurance company to argue that subsequent weather events caused additional damage or that normal wear and tear is the real culprit. We recommend contacting us within 30 days of any significant storm.
Process & Pricing FAQs
How does IHC’s estimate process work?
Call or text (815) 356-9020 or fill out our online form. We’ll schedule a time to visit your home — usually within a few days. We measure, inspect, discuss your goals and material preferences, and present one clear project price. No high-pressure sales tactics, no “today only” discounts, no four-hour presentations. Most estimates take 45–60 minutes.
Does IHC offer financing?
Yes. We offer financing through GreenSky, which provides a range of payment plans including deferred-interest and fixed-payment options. You can apply at your estimate appointment and get a decision in minutes. Financing lets you invest in premium materials now and spread the cost over time, rather than settling for a cheaper product just to stay within a cash budget. Visit our financing page for details.
How long does a siding or roofing project typically take?
Roof replacements take 2–5 days for most homes. Full siding projects take 1–3 weeks depending on the size of the home, number of stories, and material type. Whole-home window replacements take 2–4 days. Gutter installations are typically completed in a single day. We provide a specific timeline in every estimate, and we communicate proactively if weather or material delivery causes any changes.
What warranties does IHC offer?
Every project carries two layers of warranty protection: the manufacturer’s product warranty and our workmanship warranty. Because IHC holds manufacturer certifications from Andersen, James Hardie, CertainTeed, LP SmartSide, and GutterShutter, our installations qualify for the highest warranty tiers each manufacturer offers — including extended and lifetime options that uncertified contractors cannot provide.
Does IHC pull permits?
Yes. We pull all required permits per McHenry County and local municipal building codes. Roofing replacements, structural window changes, and certain siding projects require permits in most McHenry County municipalities. Skipping the permit exposes you to fines, failed inspections during a future home sale, and voided insurance coverage. We handle the paperwork and schedule the inspections.
How does IHC present pricing?
We give you one project price that covers materials, labor, permits, cleanup, and disposal. We don’t break the quote into line items, and we don’t play the “materials vs. labor” game that some contractors use to confuse homeowners. What we do specify is the exact manufacturer, product line, and color you’re getting — so you know exactly what’s going on your home.
What payment methods does IHC accept?
We accept checks, credit cards, ACH transfers, and GreenSky financing. For insurance claim projects, payment timing is coordinated with your insurance disbursements — we work with you and the carrier to align payment with the claim payout schedule so you’re never out of pocket before the insurance money arrives.
Still Have Questions?
We respond the same business day — no spam, no pressure. Call, text, or fill out our estimate form and we’ll get back to you with a straight answer.
