Replacing Your Shingle Roof in Iowa City: A Complete Guide

Replacing your shingle roof can be a daunting task, with a lot of details to consider. If your Iowa City roofing requires replacement or repair, you need to make sure the process is done right. This guide will give you the information you need to obtain a roof that looks just as great as it is functional. 

How Long Do Roofing Shingles Last?

Generally, you'll find two types of longevity: 25-year shingles and 50 years shingles.

The 25-year shingles are cheaper, but the price difference isn't always that large. In actuality, you often only end up paying just around 5% more for a roof that will last twice as long as its cheaper counterpart.

With 50-year shingles, you can expect increased durability against high wind speeds. Another essential factor is compliance with Iowa State regulations, which require shingles durable against 140mph winds. And, because they last longer, this type offers double the protection for your home.

Due to these factors, we recommend 50-year shingles as they last longer and give you the best bang for your buck. If you need Iowa City roof repair, sometimes it may even be beneficial to re-shingle the entire roof instead of just the damaged section so that your roofing lasts as long as possible.

Which Is The Best Type Of Shingle?

When it comes to shingles, there are 3 main types:

- 3-tab shingles

- Dimensional shingles

- Luxury shingles

3-tab shingles are the most basic type. They are lightweight, made from durable fiberglass basemat coated with mineral granules, and can last up to around 20 years. Dimensional shingles are slightly more expensive and comprised of two layers of shingles that are bonded together. These shingles are extremely durable and provide a 3 dimensional look for your roof. Luxury shingles are designed to replicate the look of natural slate but at a fraction of the cost. They are highly durable and can weight quite a lot, but are perfect for any period homes that look better with natural slate.

What Underlayment Should I Use?

When it comes to underlayment, you have two options: felt Paper or synthetic. The underlayment refers to the layer underneath your shingles, but on top of the wooden roof deck of your house. Felt paper is an old material while synthetic material is much newer. 

Felt paper is similar to the kind of paper that you would use for arts and crafts and as a result, can tear easily. It also easily deteriorates if it comes into contact with rainwater. Synthetic underlayment is far more difficult to tear due to fiberglass threading woven into the fabric. They are also far more weather resistant but do cost more than their felt paper counterparts. 

There are two main varieties when it comes to synthetic underlayment; thin or thick. Thick synthetic underlayment can cost more but are the most effective way of weatherproofing your roof. Due to these factors, we recommend trying for a thick synthetic underlayment for your roof, but a thin synthetic underlayment will also do the job just fine. 

Calling the Right Iowa City Roofing Company

Hopefully, with the above suggestions, you'll know exactly what you want when it comes to approaching an Iowa city roofing contractor for your home. If you want top-quality help with roofing your home today, be sure to give us a call. 

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