What is the formula for measuring a roof?

• <div><p>The common formula for measuring a roof is length x width equals square footage. Professional roofers measure the length and width of your roof, including dormers, and determine its pitch and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/roof-rafters-size.htm">rafter sizes</a>. If a roof surface is a triangle, they’ll divide that square footage by two, then add up the square footage of each surface to get the total for the roof.</p></div>

What is the best pitch for a porch roof?

• <div><p>The minimum recommended slope for a porch roof is 1/4:12, which means 1/4-inch of rise every 12 inches of run. Slopes of 3:12 and 4:12 are more common and provide faster drainage for runoff. Make sure to choose a pitch that’s appropriate both for the climate in your area and the type of roof material you install. <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/6-tips-choosing-roofing-contractor.htm">Hire a roofer</a> if you need help determining what the right roof pitch is. </p></div>

Get matched with top roofers in Laurens, IA

Q: What’s the best type of roofing shingles?

• <div><p>There are two main types of roofing shingles: <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/architectural-shingles-vs-3-tab.htm">3-tab and architectural</a>. Architectural shingles cost more than 3-tab but offer a more unique look and can last longer. However, 3-tab shingles are lightweight and affordable, and many people use them for both patching roofs and installing new roofs. Ultimately, the best type for you depends on your budget and your home&rsquo;s aesthetic.</p></div>

Q: What is a flat roof suitable for?

• <div><p>Flat roofs are a solid option for people who want extra outdoor space. Flat roofs are very common in other parts of the world and only recently has the U.S. started to see the benefit in the increased space. Flat roofs are also easier to maintain and pose much less of a safety risk, which allows for more DIY work for handy homeowners. Some people also build green or living roofs that grow plant life. </p></div>

Q: How far apart should roof tiles be?

• <div><p>Gaps between tiles are necessary to help with weatherproofing, allow for thermal expansion, and increase wind resistance. In general, a small gap no larger than 3 millimeters wide will encourage proper drainage and limit cracking. Beyond that, tiles should overlap a minimum of 3 inches, except at the eaves where they should extend to the center of the gutter.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Roofing pros in Laurens, IA

*The Angi rating for Roofing companies in Laurens, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Roofing needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Roofing companies in Laurens, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Roofing needs.

Last update on April 29, 2026

Reviewed in April 2026
Work was completed in timely manner and met or exceeded all expectations.
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in July 2022
Len was very professional, friendly, conscientious and easy to work with! He did a great job and our area rug looks amazing!
Advanced Interior Care, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2021
Their team did a great job communicating with me. They completed the job well and cleanup was great. I would recommend them and will use them again.
Uprooted Tree Service
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Reviewed in February 2020
It looks good. He did a pretty good job and he cleaned up very good.
Sandvigroofing&general contractor
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Reviewed in June 2019
Joe and his crew were a pleasure to work with. He was here when he said he would be. They worked quickly and efficiently. Rain is expected later today, so we will get to test the new gutters.
Gutters Unlimited Elite Services, Inc.
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Reviewed in April 2019
Told him what I wanted done and when it came to biding my project, I thought he was doing my entree way to my basement plus my 6x8 wall and when he finished the entree way without doing the 6x8 wall he said here is my bill and he stated that he never bid on the 6x8 wall and I stated that was the...
Hatch Masonry & Concrete
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Reviewed in November 2018
Very professional. Their work was thorough and even went the extra mile to ensure our home was electrically safe. Very good at keeping me informed on scheduling the appointment. Money well invested.
Toft Electric, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2013
In February 2013 we hired Premier Construction to undertake an extensive building project which included an addition to our house that doubled the existing square footage, a remodel of the existing space, and the construction of a detached garage. Also included in the project were a rear deck, a...
Premier Construction Services
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Reviewed in March 2012
They did my roof and clean up in 2 days. I would definitely recommend them to anyone needing roof work done.
Five Star Roofing
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Find Roofers in Laurens

Crawford's Services LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Crawfords did a great job in a timely manner. Would recommend them to anyone who is looking to have their home washed!"

Response time4 hrs

Response rate96%

3 neighbors recently requested a quote

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777 Remodeling, Renovations & Repairs LLC

4.6(

)

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"John did an outstanding job. Better than i expected, his design has gotten many compliments! I want to find more jobs i can have him do at my residence. He is very personable and friendly. I would highly recommend him for anyone with any needs. If anyone has any questions please call me at 515 570 6607 or drive by 2926 7th Ave S, Fort Dodge. QguudwdaaaS"

Response time2 days

6 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Iowa Roof Coatings, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Customers say: Quick response

"Matt came in with an amazing solution to our problem and used a specialized polyurethane coating to save us money. He was very gregarious and outstanding."

Response time10 hrs

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2023

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"EXCELLENT JOB. EXCELLENT contractor. EXCELLENT MANAGER."

25 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Ascended Constructions

New to Angi

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

Approved (Corporate)

In business since 2023

Offers commercial services

Were a family owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity, and stands behind our work. We offer over 40 years of industry experience. We specialize in Asphalt Shingle Roofing installation, replacement, and repairs. Our services are customized to the individual project, paying close attention to the details of each project that we're involved with. We look forward to building long-term relationships with our clients and guarantee your satisfaction!

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Anna Phillips

New to Angi

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

Im very good at what i do. Very friendly and reliable.

11 neighbors recently requested a quote

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Ground Zero Services LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

"Ryan was excellent help for me on some interior carpentry work and some landscaping work I needed done. Friendly, reliable, and answered when I called!"

+12

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1992

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Rod provided good insights and ideas, offered a reasonable price, and hired good subcontractors to do the work. I am happy with the results."

Recommended by26%of homeowners

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Renaissance Roofing, Inc.

3.6(

)

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1992

Emergency services offered

Warranties offered

"Threy didn't do the type of roof I have."

+32

Recommended by90%of homeowners

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Sandvigroofing&general contractor

4.7(

)

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"It was okay. It looks good I had no problem with them."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

...

Showing 1-10 of 61

Roofing questions, answered by experts

There are two main types of roofing shingles: 3-tab and architectural. Architectural shingles cost more than 3-tab but offer a more unique look and can last longer. However, 3-tab shingles are lightweight and affordable, and many people use them for both patching roofs and installing new roofs. Ultimately, the best type for you depends on your budget and your home’s aesthetic.

The common formula for measuring a roof is length x width equals square footage. Professional roofers measure the length and width of your roof, including dormers, and determine its pitch and rafter sizes. If a roof surface is a triangle, they’ll divide that square footage by two, then add up the square footage of each surface to get the total for the roof.

The minimum recommended slope for a porch roof is 1/4:12, which means 1/4-inch of rise every 12 inches of run. Slopes of 3:12 and 4:12 are more common and provide faster drainage for runoff. Make sure to choose a pitch that’s appropriate both for the climate in your area and the type of roof material you install. Hire a roofer if you need help determining what the right roof pitch is.

Flat roofs are a solid option for people who want extra outdoor space. Flat roofs are very common in other parts of the world and only recently has the U.S. started to see the benefit in the increased space. Flat roofs are also easier to maintain and pose much less of a safety risk, which allows for more DIY work for handy homeowners. Some people also build green or living roofs that grow plant life.

Gaps between tiles are necessary to help with weatherproofing, allow for thermal expansion, and increase wind resistance. In general, a small gap no larger than 3 millimeters wide will encourage proper drainage and limit cracking. Beyond that, tiles should overlap a minimum of 3 inches, except at the eaves where they should extend to the center of the gutter.

The Laurens, IA homeowners’ guide to roofing services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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Mar 5, 2026Mar 5, 2026
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Parts of a Roof: Ultimate Guide to Roof Anatomy
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Roofing Sales Techniques: How to Sell Roofs Like a Pro
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