Best roofers near Humboldt, IA

Though cedar shakes often get confused with shingles, there are a few key differences between wood shakes and wood shingles. For one, cedar shingle prices are lower, although shingles are less durable than wood shakes. Cedar shakes are thicker than shingles (shingles range from about 3/8 to 1/2 inches thick, compared to 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick for shakes). Wood shakes are handmade, while shingles are usually machine-made. Also, wood shakes work better on steeper roofs than shingles do. While the cost of cedar shingles is more budget-friendly, there are many great reasons to choose shakes.

More and more insurance companies are writing torch down applications out of their liability insurance for contractors. If torch down is covered, they generally require a worker to stay on site for two hours after the last flame is extinguished.

For this reason, cold application modified bitumen—also known as “peel and stick”—is becoming more popular, and torch down is decreasing in popularity. Modified bitumen is taking its place, as it uses both hot and cold applications.

Depending on the condition of your roof, you may be able to add flashing to it. If you’re looking for a way to maintain its integrity while saving some money, you should ask a roofing pro if this is an option. Keep in mind that if your roof is in poor shape, a full replacement may be necessary before flashing is installed.

A roof overlay will last an average of 15 years, compared to the 20 to 30 years or more that a full roof replacement for a shingle roof will last. An overlay’s lifespan may be shortened even further if there’s underlying damage to the existing roof or structural problems with the roof supports.