Get matched with top roofers in West Bend, IA

Roll roofs don’t last as long as traditional roofs, like those made of asphalt shingles. A roll roof typically lasts between five and 15 years, whereas a shingled roof will last between 20 and 50  years. Modified bitumen roofs are similar in look to rolled roofing but have a 12 to 15 year warranty.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, wood shakes and wood shingles have notable differences, primarily in their manufacturing and appearance. Wood shingles are machine-cut on both sides, resulting in a smooth, thin, and uniform product. In contrast, wood shakes are typically hand-split or sawed on only one side, giving them a more textured, natural, and rustic appearance. Due to these manufacturing differences, shakes are generally thicker, heavier, and less uniform than shingles. They are also more expensive. Homeowners seeking a more rustic aesthetic often choose shakes, while those preferring a more uniform look may opt for shingles. Both are installed in an overlapping pattern to create a durable, weather-resistant roof.

Here are a few tips on how to choose a roofer:

• Get everything in writing

• Ask for insurance, license, and bond, then verify them

• Check their reviews 

• Ask for recommendations

• Get multiple quotes

You’ll also want to watch out for any red flags like:

• Pushy sales tactics

• Not willing to show necessary documentation

• Bad gut instincts

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.