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 roof replacement is one of the biggest projects you will do on your home, so it helps to know what it costs, how it works and how long it takes before you get quotes. Tomlinson Cannon has more than 75 years of experience in roofing in Iowa City, and this page covers roof replacement from the first inspection to the final warranty paperwork.
Signs It's Time for a Roof Replacement
- Age: most asphalt roofs last around 20–25 years. If yours is in that range, plan ahead rather than waiting for a leak.
- Leaks in more than one place, or leaks that come back after repairs
- Curling, cracked or missing shingles across large areas of the roof
- Heavy granule loss showing up in gutters and downspouts
- A sagging or spongy roof deck, which points to structural damage
- Widespread hail damage that your insurer has assessed
If the damage is limited to one area, a roof repair may be all you need.
How Much Does a Roof Replacement Cost in Iowa City?
Most asphalt shingle roof replacements on Iowa City homes cost between $8,000 and $15,000. Metal, tile and slate roofs cost more. Your price depends on:
- Roof size, measured in "squares" of 100 square feet
- Pitch and complexity: steep roofs, dormers, valleys and skylights add labor and safety work
- Layers to tear off: removing two or more old layers costs more than one
- Decking repairs: rotted sheathing found during tear-off is replaced, usually priced per sheet
- Material: shingle grade, metal profile, tile or slate
- Ventilation and flashing upgrades needed to meet code and protect the warranty
- Permit and disposal fees
We give you a written, itemized estimate so you can see exactly what you are paying for. For a deeper look at pricing factors, read our article on what goes into the cost of a new roof. If storm damage is involved, your insurance may cover part of the cost; see our storm damage and insurance claim help.
Repair or Replace?
- If the damage is isolated and the roof is young, a repair is usually the better value.
- If the roof is near the end of its life or damage is widespread, replacement usually costs less over time than repeated repairs.
- We only recommend what your roof truly needs, and we will show you photos of what we find.
The Roof Replacement Process, Step by Step
Before the work starts
- Inspection: we check the shingles, decking, flashing, ventilation and gutters, and photograph any damage.
- Estimate: you get an itemized quote with material options and a timeline.
- Permit and scheduling: we handle any required permit, order materials and book a date around the weather.
Installation days
- Protect the property: we cover plants, siding and windows and set up debris collection.
- Tear-off: old roofing comes off down to the deck.
- Deck repairs: any soft or rotted sheathing is replaced.
- Underlayment and ice protection: ice and water shield goes along the eaves and valleys, with underlayment across the rest of the roof.
- Flashing, vents and new roofing: new flashing and ventilation, then the new shingles or metal.
- Cleanup: we clear nails and debris every day and at the end of the job.
After the work
We walk the finished roof with you, answer your questions and hand over your manufacturer and workmanship warranty documents. Most residential replacements take 1–3 days, depending on the size of the roof and the weather.
Choosing Materials for Your New Roof
Most Iowa City replacements use architectural asphalt shingles, and metal is a popular upgrade for long-term owners. Our roof installation in Iowa City page compares asphalt, metal, tile, slate and flat-roof systems side by side.
Warranty and Financing
Every replacement comes with a manufacturer warranty on materials and our own workmanship warranty on the installation. See our warranties page for details. Financing options are available; ask about them during your consultation.
Comparing Roof Replacement Quotes
When you collect quotes, compare what each one includes, not just the total. Our guide on how to choose a roofing contractor in Iowa City lists what a complete estimate should show and the questions to ask.
FAQs – Roof Replacement in Iowa City
How much does a roof replacement cost in Iowa City?
Most asphalt shingle replacements on Iowa City homes cost between $8,000 and $15,000. Metal, tile and slate cost more. We give you an itemized estimate after a free inspection.
How long does a roof replacement take?
Most residential projects take 1–3 days, depending on the size and complexity of the roof and the weather.
Do I need to leave my home during the replacement?
Usually not. It will be noisy, but you can stay in your home while we work.
Will my landscaping be protected?
Yes. We cover plants, move items out of harm's way and clean up thoroughly each day.
Can you replace a roof in winter?
Yes, though extreme cold or snow can mean adjusting the schedule. We will advise you on the best timing.
Does insurance cover roof replacement?
Many policies cover storm and hail damage but not normal wear. We can help document damage for your insurer.
Schedule Your Free Roof Replacement Estimate
Find out whether your roof needs replacing and what it would cost, with no pressure to decide on the spot. Call for a free roof replacement estimate
