Get matched with top roofers in Marcus, IA

The best roof replacement type depends on your budget and your particular climate, as well as your personal aesthetic. But in general, asphalt shingles are the best roof replacement type for homeowners looking for durability at a budget-friendly price. Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material—cost-effective, easy to install, lightweight, and the perfect choice for handy homeowners.

Most roof leaks occur where shingles meet or where there are sealants or seams in the materials. This is common around skylights and at any point there is a break in the roof such as corners and edges. Roofing materials are incredibly strong and resistant when overlapping, but any change in that can cause gaps where water can enter.

A chimney cap costs about $300 on average to install, with prices ranging from $75 to $1,000. The final cost depends on several factors, including the professional you hire, the accessibility of your chimney, the cap's material and size, whether any repairs are needed, and if it requires custom fabrication. Chimney caps are usually made from galvanized steel, stainless steel, or copper. Copper caps are the most expensive, followed by stainless steel and then galvanized steel. Excluding labor, average material costs are around $100 for galvanized steel, $250 for stainless steel, and $600 for copper. You may also face additional costs, such as hiring a chimney sweep to clean the chimney before the cap is installed.

Metal roofs do not inherently leak more than shingle roofs; when properly installed, they are generally less likely to leak. Asphalt shingle roofs are more susceptible to leaks due to factors like wind uplift, damage from extreme weather, moss growth, and ice dams. Over time, asphalt shingles also lose their protective grit, which reduces their waterproofing capabilities. In contrast, metal is a more resilient material that stands up better to heavy precipitation and high winds. However, metal roofs can develop leaks if they are poorly installed, have improperly sealed fasteners, or experience issues from thermal expansion. For this reason, professional installation and regular maintenance are crucial to ensure a metal roof's longevity and superior protection against leaks.