FAQ

Questions, answered with clarity.

How long has 1st Home Improvement been in business?

We’ve proudly served Palatine and the greater Chicagoland area for over 8 years. Backed by more than 30 years of construction experience, our family-owned company has grown from a small crew to one of the region’s most trusted exterior contractors, with thousands of successful projects completed.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. 1st Home Improvement is fully licensed, insured, and BBB A+ Rated. All of our installers are certified and trained to ensure your project is completed safely and to the highest standards.

Do you provide free estimates?

Absolutely. Every homeowner starts with a complimentary inspection and estimate. This helps us evaluate your home’s needs and provide clear, transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

What areas do you serve?

We proudly serve homeowners throughout Chicagoland, including Palatine, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, Mount Prospect, Buffalo Grove, Naperville, and surrounding suburbs.

Do you offer financing options?

Yes. Through Wells Fargo, we provide flexible financing with loan amounts up to $100,000, repayment terms up to 12 years, and no prepayment penalties. Many approvals happen in minutes with no impact on your credit score.

Can you help with insurance claims?

Yes. If your home has storm damage, our team can walk you through the insurance claim process, meet with adjusters, and provide documentation to help you get the coverage you deserve.

Do you offer emergency services?

We do. Our team provides 24/7 emergency tarping and storm repair services to secure your home and prevent further damage until permanent repairs can be made.

How long will my project take?

Most roof replacements take just 1–2 days, while siding, windows, or garage door projects may take a few days to a week, depending on the scope. We always provide a clear timeline upfront and keep you updated throughout the process.

What makes 1st Home Improvement different from other contractors?

We treat every home like our own. With local roots in Palatine, 30+ years of experience, BBB A+ accreditation, and a community-first approach, we’re known for honesty, craftsmanship, and personal care that national chains can’t match.

What happens if I’m not satisfied with the work?

Your satisfaction is our priority. We stand behind every project with a Peace of Mind Guarantee if something’s not right, we’ll make it right.

Roofing

Roofing Questions?

How do I know if I need a new roof or just repairs?

Look for missing shingles, leaks, water stains on ceilings, sagging areas, or a roof that’s 20+ years old. A free inspection can confirm if repair or replacement is best.

How long does a roof replacement take?

Most residential roof replacements are completed in 1–3 days, depending on size, weather, and complexity.

What types of roofing materials do you install?

We offer GAF asphalt laminated shingles, wood shake, metal, polymer shake, and slate products.

Will insurance cover my roof replacement?

If your roof was damaged by hail, wind, or storms, homeowners' insurance may cover it. We work directly with all major insurance companies to simplify the process.

How often should I have my roof inspected?

Experts recommend a professional roof inspection at least once a year, ideally in spring or fall, and after major storms. Regular inspections catch small issues early and prevent costly repairs.

How long will my new roof last?

A professionally installed asphalt shingle roof typically lasts 20–30 years. Regular inspections and maintenance can extend its life.

FAQ

Gutter Questions?

How do I know if I need new gutters or just repairs?

Look for sagging, peeling paint, pooling water near the foundation, or gutters pulling away from the house. A free inspection can confirm the right solution.

How long does gutter installation take?

Most seamless gutter installations are completed in just 1 day, depending on the size of the home and the scope of work.

 What types of gutters do you install?

We specialize in seamless aluminum gutters, available in multiple colors to match your home, and can add gutter guards for clog prevention.

How often should gutters be cleaned?

Without guards, gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year, in spring and fall. With gutter guards, maintenance is significantly reduced.

Can clogged gutters really damage my home?

Yes. Overflowing gutters can cause roof leaks, basement flooding, foundation cracks, and damage to siding or landscaping.

Do you offer financing for gutter projects?

Yes. Through Wells Fargo, we provide flexible financing options to make gutter upgrades affordable.

FAQ

Siding Questions?

How do I know if my siding needs to be replaced?

Signs include cracking, warping, fading, loose panels, or rising energy bills. A free inspection can confirm if repair or replacement is needed.

How long does siding installation take?

Most siding projects take 2–5 days, depending on home size, weather, and material selection.

What siding materials do you install?

We specialize in vinyl, aluminum, fiber cement, and James Hardie siding. All available in a wide range of styles and colors to suit your home.

Will new siding improve my home’s value?

Yes. Quality siding improves curb appeal, increases resale value, and enhances energy efficiency, making it one of the top ROI exterior upgrades.

Can siding be repaired instead of replaced?

Yes, if damage is limited to a few panels or sections and the material is available, we can repair siding to restore appearance and protection. If the exact match is discontinued, a reasonable repair can be made, but the appearance may vary.

Do you offer insulated siding?

Yes. Insulated siding adds extra energy efficiency by reducing heat loss in winter and keeping your home cooler in summer.

FAQ

Window Questions?

How do I know if my windows need to be replaced?

Signs include drafts, condensation between panes, rising energy bills, or difficulty opening and closing windows.

How long does window installation take?

Most projects take 1–3 days, depending on the number of windows and the type of installation.

What types of windows do you install?

We offer double-pane, triple-pane, vinyl, and custom window styles like bay, bow, casement, and picture windows.

 Will new windows really lower my energy bills?

Yes. Energy-efficient windows reduce heat loss in winter, minimize heat gain in summer, and can significantly cut energy costs.

Can individual windows be repaired instead of replaced?

Yes. If damage is limited to a seal, pane, or hardware, we can often repair instead of replace the entire unit.

Do you offer custom sizes and designs?

Yes. We provide custom window sizes, grid patterns, finishes, and styles to perfectly match your home’s design.

FAQ

Garage Door Questions?

How do I know if my garage door needs to be replaced?

If your door is sagging, noisy, lacks modern safety features, or requires frequent repairs, replacement may be the best option.

How long does garage door installation take?

Most garage door installations are completed in a single day, depending on the type of door and opener system.

What types of garage doors do you install?

We install sectional, carriage-style, and modern full-view doors in a variety of materials and finishes, including insulated options.

Can you repair my existing garage door?

Yes. We repair springs, cables, rollers, tracks, panels, and openers to restore safe operation.

Do new garage doors improve home value?

Absolutely. A new garage door is one of the highest-return exterior upgrades, boosting curb appeal and energy efficiency.

Do you install smart garage door openers?

Yes. We install Wi-Fi-enabled garage door openers with smartphone access, advanced security features, and quiet operation.

FAQ

Emergency Services Questions?

What should I do first if my roof is leaking during a storm?

Call us immediately. We can tarp or patch the area to stop water intrusion before damage spreads.

Do you really provide 24/7 emergency services?

Yes. Our crews are on-call day and night to respond when disaster strikes.

How quickly can you get to my home?

Response times vary depending on the storm, but we prioritize emergencies and aim to be on-site as fast as possible.

Will insurance cover storm damage repairs?

In most cases, yes. We document the damage and work directly with your insurance to streamline claims.

Can you handle more than just roofing?

Absolutely. We also provide emergency siding, gutter, and window repairs caused by storm damage.