Residential cottage house with courtyard

Photo Courtesy: Pexels

What You Need to Know About Your Roof as a California Homeowner

As a homeowner, there are few things you should worry about more than your roof. It protects you from the outside elements, and helps stabilize your utilities, but most importantly, a stable roof keeps you and your family safe. In California, in particular, you need to worry about maintaining a roof that meets the regulations and climate demands that come with the environment. If you find it lacking, consider remodeling. Not only does this help bring your roof up to code and improve your home’s resale value, but it also provides a significant return on your investment.

How Long Does the Average Roof Last in California?

Ultimately, the average life of a roof depends on various factors, including the type of roof, the weather, and the wear it endures. For example, roofs with asphalt shingles or wood roofs that endure sudden swings of temperature that can cause the material to contract and expand can have a shorter lifespan than in a more stable environment. In California, your primary concern for the climate is sun exposure. According to the Architectural Digest, UV rays can break down the protective coating on most shingles. 

To ensure you get the most out of your roof, it’s essential to consider the following types of roofing materials and how they can endure in your area of residence:

  • Asphalt shingles: Most houses are made from asphalt shingles since they’re the most cost-friendly. However, as mentioned, they tend to expand and lose their protective coating in certain weather conditions. As a result, they only last 20 to 30 years.
  • Metal roofs: Metal roofs are becoming more popular due to their durability and resistance to most fire damage. On average, a metal roof can last up to 80 years.
  • Tile roofs: Tile roofs are some of the most durable roofing materials and can last up to 100 years.

If you live in California, the latter two roofing options may be best if you need a durable material that can withstand any environment.

Signs It's Time to Replace Your Roof

No matter the type of roof material you have or what they have endured, all roofs will have the following characteristics as they start to wear down:

  • Missing shingles;
  • Damaged shingles;
  • Loose shingles;
  • Sagging roof;
  • Water damage;
  • Holes in the roof which lead to leaks or drafts.

Often, the first signs of damage, such as loose or damaged shingles, may be so slight you don’t even notice it until more significant issues appear. Still, taking action as soon as you find these damage issues is essential. If you’re concerned, you can always consult a housing inspector who will evaluate the roof’s condition.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Roof Life

Maintain your roof regularly to keep it operating as long as possible. Every month, you’ll want to clear any debris, such as leaves, that could weigh down your roof. You’ll also want to clean your gutters at least twice a year, if not more often during the fall and spring, when your trees will be more likely to shed leaves or fruit that could weigh down your gutters and roof. To prevent excessive buildup of leaves and fruit, you can also trim the trees around your house. 

In addition, you should regularly inspect the outside and inside of your roof for signs of damage, discoloration, mold, or other water damage.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability in Roofing

You can make your house more sustainable in any remodel, and your roof remodel is no exception. Luckily, there are various options to make your roof more sustainable, such as recyclable shingles. These types of shingles are made from 100% recyclable materials. However, manufacturers can’t guarantee how long these shingles will last since they’re new to the market. In addition, all new roofs in California need to meet the Title 24 standard and consist of “cool roofs” material, meaning that roof materials refract UV rays to reduce the energy needed to cool off the house. Unfortunately, not all recycled shingles meet this standard.

However, other materials easily meet this standard, such as metal. In addition, green roofs meet this standard, as the plant life grown on this roofing keeps the rest of the house cool. In California, pick greenery and plant life native to the area since most native plants don’t require excessive watering and are most likely to thrive. For any of these roofing options, you must ensure they meet your HOA standards, as they may also have a preference.  

Any of these materials lower your carbon footprint and make your house more sustainable. Your HVAC system won’t spend needless energy cooling off the rest of the house, and you’ll also have a smaller utility bill.

Solar Roofing

You can also make your house more sustainable by adding solar roofing, which can help generate energy. This is an excellent idea for California homeowners since most of the state has moderate, temperate climates with many sunny days, which benefit solar panels. 

Although it may be an initial investment, it can help you save up to $1,530 on your energy bill every year, thanks to solar panels. If you are worried about the investment, consider the following initiatives that may offset the cost:

  • Disadvantaged Communities — Single-family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH): If you live in a household in a disadvantaged community or make an income below the CARE Income Limits, you can have up to $39,440 paid for on a solar panel installation. 
  • Solar Energy System Property Tax Exclusion: If you install your solar panels before 2025, you don’t have to pay for property taxes that may come with installing the solar panels.
  • GreenFinanceSF: If you live in San Francisco, you can finance your solar panels through your property taxes, which minimizes your interest rate.
  • San Diego Green Building Program: If you live in San Diego, you can reduce your permit fees by up to 7.5%.
  • Federal Tax Credits: You can claim up to 30% of solar installation fees yearly on your federal taxes until 2032.

With these state-wide, local, or federal incentives, solar panels are a no-brainer for making your roof more sustainable.

Man with Gloves Holding Solar Panels on the Roof

Photo Courtesy: Pexels

Roofing Technology and Innovations

In addition to the sustainability advancements, there have been other advancements in roofing technology that increase the durability of most roofs or help homeowners maintain their integrity. For example, many roofing coatings include hydrophobic coatings, which can repel water and prevent water damage to the tiles and the roof. This can be essential for homes that receive a lot of rainfall or reside on ocean-front property. 

With the help of the Internet of Things (IoT), owners can install a smart roofing system that alerts them whenever it detects damage, leaks, or any temperature change that could affect the roofing’s durability.

In addition, researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a new material that can adapt to fluctuating temperatures or climates. Essentially, in the summer, it can refract light to keep housing cool but will absorb the same heat in the winter to warm up houses. In the future, experts predict more houses will include this feature in roofing materials, along with artificial intelligence (AI) to help predict when a roof needs repair.

White Concrete 2-story House

Photo Courtesy: Pexels

Special Considerations for Roofing in California

Before you dedicate yourself to remodeling your roof on a whim, there are some considerations you should evaluate to help you prepare.

Legal and Building Code Requirements

In addition to adhering to cool roof standards, you must also meet the California roofing standards:

  • Permits and licenses: Any project over $500 requires a contractor’s license from the California Contractors State Licence Board. You will also need a permit that lays out what materials you use, the moisture content in the materials, the seismic anchorage, and the roof framing. 
  • Fire safety standards: Any roof in an area of California prone to wildfires must be fire-resistant. In addition, all roofs in the state must have a fire extinguisher within 30 feet to prevent fires
  • Building codes: All roofs must meet building codes outlined by the state, including the flashing, the drip edge, the slop, and the attic ventilation, to meet structural integrity and safety standards. 
  • Inspections: All homeowners must hire an inspector and fix any issues raised by the inspector to avoid fines. 

Although this may sound like a lot, most contractors will handle your permits, licensing, and building code requirements.

Insurance and Warranty Considerations

Before you contact a roofing contractor to build a new roof, it’s essential to read their warranty carefully and see how it compares to your home insurance coverage. Most home insurance providers will cover any damage to your roof if it’s caused by natural sources, such as a falling branch or water damage caused by a storm. 

However, if the damage is from the roof not meeting the building code or due to a contractor’s mistakes, it will either be the contractor’s or your responsibility to pay for the damage. Because of this, it’s essential to read through your contractor’s and the manufacturer’s coverage carefully to see what damage they cover. 

If your roof has damage because of a defective material, the manufacturer will compensate you for the damaged materials, but won’t cover the labor costs. Contractor warranties will cover any damage caused by installation errors but only last up to ten years, which doesn’t cover the entire lifespan of your roof. This is typically the most crucial detail you want to deliberate and negotiate with your contractor.

Should You DIY Your Roof?

Since California requires a roofing permit and license for any project that costs more than $500, you are most likely unable to DIY your roof unless you already have these items. Also, re-roofing your house without the proper knowledge and experience can be difficult. You’ll need the right supplies, and you are bound to make mistakes. As a result, it may be best to call professional help unless you’re doing simple repairs under $500.

How Much Does a New Roof Cost in California?

The cost of your roof will depend on various factors, including the materials you use, the size of your roof, and your roofing contractor. Generally, most roofing projects, including materials and labor, can range from $4 to $13 per square foot. More populated areas in California, such as San Francisco or Los Angeles, will be on the more expensive side of this spectrum to account for the increased demand. As housing materials continue to rise with time, so will roofing costs. 

Labor in California accounts for 60% of the cost of a roofing project. For example, if a contractor quotes your roof for $10,000, the labor will cost $6,000 to compensate them for their knowledge, experience, and the work involved. The rest of the work depends on the material. 

As mentioned earlier, asphalt shingles are the cheapest roofing material, costing about $10,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home. Meanwhile, more expensive materials, such as copper, will cost $45,000 for the same space. A good middle-ground material is slate tiles, which cost about $20,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home.

Cost-Saving Tips

Re-roofing a house isn’t a cheap task. As such, your decisions on the materials you use and the contractor you opt for will involve a delicate balance between quality and affordability. For example, while asphalt shingles may be cheaper, they aren’t as high-quality as metal, and you may have to replace them more often due to the damage they endure. Therefore, while high-end materials may require a higher investment, they may save you more money, so you won’t have to pay for a new roof later. 

In addition, you should consider your goals for your new space. If you plan on reselling the home, you may be more willing to pay for asphalt or tile roofs since they cost less. However, you should also consider how these new materials affect your resale value. 

No matter what material you decide on, be strategic when deciding how and when to replace your roof. For example, you can pay for a new roof during the off-season, such as the winter, to save money on labor. In addition, you can “shop” around for different contractors by asking for various quotes. Remember to read reviews before doing this, though. You don’t want to invest in a roofing contractor who will provide low-quality results just for a less expensive quote.

Financial Assitance Programs

You’re not alone if you need help paying for roofing repairs or remodels. The state of California and various non-profits offer a variety of financial assistance programs to help homeowners keep their homes stable and more environmentally efficient, like: 

  • Cool Roof Rating Council: This database, run by the Cool Roof Rating Council, offers a variety of organizations that may offer financing repayment options for homeowners who want to be more energy efficient by installing a cool roof. 
  • Property Assessed Clean Energy Program: This grant offers up-front payment for any California homeowner clean energy project so you can pay over time through 10 to 20 years. 
  • GoGreen Financing: Run by the state of California, this program offers up to 100% coverage of any energy-efficient project, depending on your income. 

Often, the resources are available if you meet the income requirements — you just have to look. 

Finding the Right Roofing Contractor

Finding the right contractor to renovate your roof can mean the most significant difference. The right roofing contractor will work within your budget, meet your warranty and contract requirements, and work with you. When shopping around, look thoroughly at each contract, which should include details like what materials they’ll use, the time span of the project, how they’ll remove old materials, and any other changes they’ll make to your roof.

If something doesn’t meet your expectations or standards, speak up. If they’re unwilling to work with you to make any changes to the contract, it may be best to move to a different contractor. 

At Platinum Homes, we are dedicated to providing you with the best roofing renovation service. We’ll work with you to create the roof of your dreams and communicate with you through each step  — from our consultation and contract-writing process to finalizing the results — so you don’t have to worry about any surprises along the way. Contact us soon so you can enjoy your new, energy-efficient home!

FAQs About Roofing in California

How Often Should I Inspect My Roof in California?

Regular inspections should be conducted at least twice a year, especially after major weather events.

Can I Install a Roof Myself in California?

While it’s possible, local building codes and permits may require professional installation.

What Is the Best Roof for a Hot Climate?

Tile roofs are excellent for reflecting heat and maintaining cooler temperatures inside.

Do I Need a Permit to Redo My Roof in California?

Yes, most California cities require a permit for significant roofing work to ensure safety and code compliance.

How Do Solar Roofs Impact Home Value in California?

Solar roofs can significantly increase home value due to energy savings and desirable technology.

What Are the Signs That My Roof Needs Immediate Replacement?

Significant leaks, widespread damage, and structural sagging are critical signs that require immediate attention.

Leave A Comment

Ask us About Our Special Monthly Deals for Your Project!