Craftsmanship
Rooted in Chicago's Architectural Legacy
Since 1894, Wagner and Son has been part of Chicago's story — five generations of expertise in architectural metalwork.
Why Wagner and Son?
When you've been in business since 1894, you learn a few things about quality and durability. We're not just sheet metal contractors—we're craftsmen who understand that the details matter. The way a cornice catches the light. How a skylight frames the sky. The precision required to restore a historic dome to its original glory.
Our two locations in Crystal Lake and Chicago allow us to serve clients throughout the region, and our in-house fabrication shop means we can create custom pieces that meet exact specifications. We work on everything from small residential repairs to large commercial installations, and we approach every project with the same attention to detail that Albert Wagner brought to his first jobs in the 1890s.
We've seen architectural trends come and go, but one thing hasn't changed: the value of work done right the first time. That's what we deliver.
Our Services
We've worked alongside some of the city's most celebrated architects—Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, John Maher—on projects that helped define Chicago's skyline and neighborhoods. Today, we bring that same level of craftsmanship to residential homes, commercial buildings, and historic restorations throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.
Whether you're restoring a century-old church dome, adding custom skylights to your home, or need commercial gutters for a new building, we have the experience and skill to do it right. Our work speaks for itself, and our reputation has been built project by project, over 130 years.
We specialize in architectural sheet metal for residential, commercial, and historic properties. Here's what we do best:
Residential Sheet Metal
Your home deserves the kind of craftsmanship that lasts. We create beautiful cornice systems, custom skylights, cladding, and ornamental metalwork that adds character and value to residential properties. From new installations to repairs on existing work, we handle gutters, decorative pieces, and architectural details that make a house distinctive. Our residential work combines function with aesthetics—everything we install is built to perform and built to last. If you're looking to add architectural interest to your home or restore original metalwork, we can help make it happen.
Commercial Sheet Metal
Commercial buildings have specific demands, and we meet them. We install metal wall panels, composite panels, commercial gutters, downspouts, soffit panels, and fascia systems for buildings of all sizes. Our commercial gutter services include repairs, installations, and custom solutions in aluminum, steel, and copper. Whether you need soffit panel installation, panel repairs, or a complete gutter system for a new construction project, we have the equipment and experience to handle it efficiently. We understand deadlines, we work with contractors and building managers, and we show up ready to get the job done.
Custom Architectural Fabrication
Some projects require metalwork that doesn't come standard. That's where our fabrication shop comes in. We create custom pieces for historical restorations, residential projects, and commercial buildings—everything from copings and gravel stops to two-piece fascia systems, counter flashings, scuppers, and conductor heads. Our fabricators can work from architectural drawings or collaborate with you to design something unique. We've fabricated custom skylights, ornamental crosses for churches, and specialized roof metals for projects that demand precision. If you can sketch it, we can probably build it.
Churches & Domes
Churches present unique restoration challenges, and we've spent decades working on them. We restore church domes, install and repair custom skylights, and fabricate crosses and ornamental details that match historical specifications. Religious buildings often feature intricate metalwork that requires both technical skill and respect for the original craftsmanship. We've worked on churches throughout Chicago and the suburbs, helping congregations preserve their buildings for future generations. Whether it's a full dome restoration or repairing existing metalwork, we understand what these projects require.
Skylights
A well-designed skylight transforms a space. Natural light changes how a room feels, and our custom skylights are built to showcase that light while standing up to Chicago weather. We fabricate and install a wide variety of styles and materials for residential and commercial properties. Each skylight is custom-made in our shop to fit your specific opening and architectural style. Whether you're adding light to a dark hallway, creating a dramatic feature in a living space, or installing functional skylights in a commercial building, we'll work with you to design something that performs beautifully for years to come.
Years in Business
Projects and counting
Let's Talk About Your Project
We've been doing this work for over a century because we care about the results. If you have a project in mind—restoration, new construction, repair work, or custom fabrication—we'd be happy to discuss how we can help. Call us at 815-527-8732, or stop by our location in Crystal Lake. We offer free estimates and competitive pricing.
Albert Wagner started this business with a commitment to quality craftsmanship. Five generations later, that's still what we deliver.