ABOUT US
Since 1948, Tomlinson Cannon has been Eastern Iowa’s trusted expert in keeping homes dry. We’ve earned our reputation by providing exceptional service and guaranteed solutions protecting your home roof to foundation. From seamless gutters and roofing to basement waterproofing and foundation repair, our team of skilled professionals delivers quality workmanship and delights you every step of the way. When you choose Tomlinson Cannon, you get our commitment to keeping your home dry and on firm foundations for generations to come.
A new roof is a decision you live with for decades, so the material and the installation both matter. This page covers roof installation in Iowa City material by material: asphalt shingles, metal, tile and slate, wood and flat or low-slope roofs. It sets out what each one costs you in upkeep, how it handles Iowa weather and what a proper installation includes. It is one part of our wider work on roofing in Iowa City.
Lifespans depend heavily on installation quality, ventilation and maintenance.
Roof Installation in Iowa City: Choosing the Right System
Iowa City roofs face hail, high winds, heavy snow, ice dams and hot, humid summers, often in the same year. The right system depends on four things: how long you plan to stay in the home, the roof's pitch and structure, your budget, and the look you want. We walk through all four with you during a free inspection before recommending anything.Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Asphalt shingles are the most common choice on Iowa City homes. They are affordable, quick to install and come in a wide range of colors.- Typical lifespan: around 20–25 years, longer for higher-grade architectural shingles that are installed and ventilated well
- Best for: most homes, and owners who want solid protection without a premium price
- Iowa notes: choose a shingle with a strong wind rating, and make sure ice and water shield goes along the eaves and valleys to guard against ice dams
Metal Roofing in Iowa City
Metal roofs cost more up front but can outlast two or three asphalt roofs.- Typical lifespan: 40–70 years
- Best for: long-term owners, homes with heavy snow loads, and anyone who wants lower long-term upkeep
- Iowa notes: metal sheds snow quickly, so snow guards over entries and walkways are worth adding. It also reflects summer heat, which can lower cooling costs
Tile and Slate Roofing in Iowa City
Tile and slate are the longest-lasting materials and give a distinctive look, which suits many older and historic Iowa City homes.- Typical lifespan: many decades with proper care
- Best for: high-end and historic homes where appearance and longevity come first
- Iowa notes: both are heavy. Before installing, we check that the roof structure can carry the weight and recommend reinforcement if it can't
Wood Shakes and Shingles
Wood gives a natural, rustic look and some insulating value. It needs more maintenance than other materials in a wet, freeze-thaw climate, so we explain the upkeep honestly before you choose it.Flat and Low-Slope Roofs
Garages, porches, additions and light commercial buildings often have flat or low-slope sections that shingles can't protect. These need a membrane roofing system designed for low slopes, with careful detailing at seams, drains and walls, where most flat-roof leaks start.Roofing Materials Compared
| Material | Typical lifespan | Weight | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles | About 20–25 years | Light | Most homes, best value |
| Metal | 40–70 years | Light | Long-term owners, heavy snow |
| Tile or slate | Many decades | Heavy | Historic and high-end homes |
| Wood shakes | Varies with upkeep | Medium | Rustic and traditional styles |
| Low-slope membrane | Varies by system | Light | Flat roofs, additions, light commercial |
What Every New Roof Installation Includes
Whatever material you choose, a roof only lasts if the parts you never see are done right. Every installation we do covers:- Inspecting the roof deck and replacing any soft or rotted sheathing
- Underlayment across the whole roof, plus ice and water shield at the eaves and valleys
- New drip edge and flashing at chimneys, walls, vents and skylights
- Balanced intake and exhaust ventilation to prevent ice dams and attic moisture
- Daily cleanup and a final walkthrough with you
New Construction and Additions
Building a new home or adding a room? We coordinate with your builder or general contractor on schedule, roof design and materials, so the new roof matches the rest of the house and is ready for the next trade on time.Why Iowa City Homeowners Trust Us With New Roofs
Tomlinson Cannon has worked on Eastern Iowa homes since 1948. Our own crews install every roof, and because we also handle gutters, waterproofing and foundation repair, we plan the roof as part of how water moves around the whole house. Read about our warranties.FAQs – Roof Installation in Iowa City
Which roofing material lasts longest in Iowa?
Slate and tile last longest, followed by metal at 40–70 years. Asphalt shingles typically last around 20–25 years, but good ventilation and installation make a big difference.Is a metal roof noisy when it rains?
Installed over solid decking and underlayment, as on most homes, a metal roof is usually not much louder than shingles from inside the house.Can my house support a tile or slate roof?
Not always. Both are much heavier than shingles, so we check your roof structure first and tell you if it needs reinforcement.Do you install flat roofs on homes and small commercial buildings?
Yes. We install low-slope systems on garages, porches, additions and light commercial buildings, with careful detailing at seams and drains.Does a new roof need better attic ventilation?
Often, yes. Poor ventilation shortens any roof's life and causes ice dams. We check intake and exhaust vents as part of every installation.Plan Your New Roof
Not sure which material fits your home? We will inspect your roof, show you samples and give you a written, itemized quote for each option. Call for a free roof installation quote
