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Written By David Cusick
Last Updated June 2024
Your roof serves many important functions, from keeping your cool air in to keeping water out. However, maintaining your roof isn't always simple. Especially during the rainier months, the roof on your California home may be at risk of damage.
For all problems, large or small, there's a local roofing contractor who can help. Our guide can help connect you with one of the top roofers in California.
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Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on roofers to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
For a project as big as roof replacement, price is important. Below is the typical price range to replace a roof on a 1,500 square foot home in California. We also compare costs for common roofing materials.
Roof installation is a large home improvement project that can cost tens of thousands of dollars. It’s crucial to do your research and find the top-rated company for the job. Here are some important considerations for selecting a roofer.
While most homeowners don't think about their roof every day, it plays a key role in protecting your home. Watch for these common signs that your roof may need an inspection and repairs from a professional roofer.
Your roof's age and material are key factors. Asphalt shingles, the most common residential roofing material, generally last about 20 to 25 years before needing replacement. Schedule a professional inspection if your roof is approaching or past this lifespan to determine if full replacement is needed.
One of the most obvious signs of a roof issue is leaking. Stains on ceilings, insulation, and walls — or in your attic — usually indicate that water is seeping through worn or damaged shingles. Don't ignore small leaks, because even these can lead to mold growth and roof damage.
If you can see the roof decking or sheathing material underneath your shingles, it means those shingles are severely curling or losing their seal and need replacement. Shingles should lie flat to prevent water from getting into your home.
Check your roof shingles from the ground or a safe ladder. Look for signs of damage or missing granules. Storms that bring strong winds can cause surface damage over time. To keep your roof in good shape, replace any shingles that have come loose or have open gaps.
Roof flashing creates a watertight seal around valleys, chimneys, vents, and other areas where water can leak into your home. Peeling, cracked, or deteriorated flashing can allow leaks. We recommend quickly addressing any problems with the roof flashing that come up.
If you notice your roofline sagging or sloping unevenly, it could indicate a problem with the structure that requires professional inspection. A sagging roof deck will worsen over time if not properly supported or replaced.
The best type of roofing material for your home in California will be decided by a number of factors, including your budget and how often you want to do maintenance.
Asphalt is less costly, while options like metal cost more but last longer. You might be swayed by how environmentally friendly a material is, and opt for something like wood.
Generally, roofing work falls under the category of home improvement, in which case your roofer needs to have a license from the Maryland Home Improvement Commission (MHIC). To obtain an MHIC license, a contractor must have at least two years' work experience and provide proof of general liability insurance.
The best time of year for a roof replacement is spring or fall. Otherwise, colder temperatures in the winter or hotter temperatures in the summer can get in the way of getting the job done.
Your roof absolutely impacts how energy-efficient your home is. For example, in the summer a good roof helps you cool your home more efficiently. Some materials, such as metal, provide better insulation than other types.
Generally, you should clean your roof about once a year. If there are a lot of trees on your property, your roof may need an extra cleaning in the fall. Also consider an extra cleaning if there's a buildup of mildew, mold, moss, or leaves.