The Best Roofs to Choose Based On California Roofing Codes

There’s several things to consider when you’re picking a new roof for your home. You’ll consider price, style, and more. What you may not have thought of, though, is California roofing codes.

These are the legal requirements for your roof, that ensure your roof is safe and fit for purpose.

How do you choose the roof that’s right for you?

Here’s some of the best roofs you can choose for your home, based on California roofing codes.

 

Ask A Roofer

If you’re thinking of buying and having a new roof installed, then the best person to speak to is a professional roofer.

They have all the information on California roofing codes, as it’s their job to know them. They’ll come take a look at your current roof, and talk to you about your needs.

With that info, they’ll be able to recommend a roofing type for you.

The best thing to do is read this guide and see what’s recommended to you. Ask a roofer as well, and you’ll get a good, informed idea of which roof is best for your home.

 

6 Types of California Roofing Codes

There are several different codes that dictate, to a certain degree, what kind of roof you should have on your home.

1. Roofer Licensing

Whichever roofer you hire, you need to know that they have the proper licensing. This is required under California law, to ensure that you’re working with true professionals.

• Usually, this is required if the roofing job is valued at or above $500.
• In addition to this, the roofing company must have adequate worker’s compensation insurance, to cover their workers in the event of an accident or injury.

When you’re checking out a roofer, you should see their licensing information on their business card. Don’t work with any company if you’re unsure about them, as your roof is a large and important job.

You want to be able to trust whoever you hire to do it.

2. Roofing Permits

Most of the time, if you’re going to have a new roof installed, you’re going to need a permit. The exact requirements for a permit differs, depending on what district you’re in.

In some cases, for example, you’ll need a permit if you’re having repairs done, rather than a full roof replacement.

Your roofer will be responsible for getting the permit, but you’ll be responsible for paying for it.

Make sure you factor this into your budget.

3. Roofing Codes

There are so many roofing codes, it’s hard to cover them all here.

They encompass everything from

• The materials used in creating your new roof
• How they work with each other
• How they’re installed

Generally, California roofing codes require your roof to be both weather and fire safe.

When you look into codes it feels intimidating, but you can talk to a qualified roofer to see what you can have installed on your home. It’s their job to know the codes inside and out, so don’t be afraid to ask.

4. Cool Roofs

A code unique to California law is that of cool roofs.

This is the requirement that a new roof should be able to reflect heat back from the home, cooling your home and therefore reducing the amount of energy you use cooling it with AC.

This is an environmentally friendly code that comes under energy codes for your home.

To get the right roof for your home, your roofer will show you which ones will work best for you.

5. Fire Safety Codes

As many areas of California are at risk of fire, your new roof needs to be capable of resisting fire.

Many roofing materials are classed highly in fire resistance, so you’ll be encouraged to pick those materials when choosing your new roof.

You’ll need a roof that comes under Class A or Class B for fire resistance, if you’re having more than 50% of your roof replaced.

6. Solar Roofing Requirements

One of the newest California roofing codes is that starting in 2020, California roofs must have solar panels on them.

This is part of an effort to improve the energy efficiency of California homes.

Other requirements include:

• Energy efficient walls, attics and more
• Increased LED lighting
• High efficiency air filters

 

 

Which Roof Should You Choose?

With so many California building codes, how do you pick the right style of roof for you?

The roof you choose will be dependent on codes in your district, so you’ll need to think carefully about which one you choose.

Here are some of the more common roofing choices for California homes.

– Metal Roofing

Metal is an increasingly popular choice in California, as it meets so many needs for building codes.

Firstly, being metal, it’s a Class A roofing material and won’t burn if a fire should break out in your home.

It’s also made of a high percentage of recycled material, and excellent at reflecting heat back away from your home.

– Clay Tile

This roofing material is made from natural clay that is fired in a kiln. As a result of this process, the tiles are very fire resistant, helping your roof meet that particular code.

Be aware that if you choose this material, your roof may need reinforcement as it is a heavy material.

– Wood Shingles

Many homeowners dismiss wood shingles, as they feel they wouldn’t be fire retardant.

However, many styles are treated to become fire resistant, making them safer to use on your roof.

– Asphalt Shingles

These are a very common choice, as they’re inexpensive compared to other roofing materials. You’ll also see that they often meet all the codes needed to be used in California.

However, be aware that only last for around 20 years, as compared to metal’s 50 years.

 

Conclusion

These are just four options for you as a homeowner. Talk to a professional roofer and see what they can recommend to you.

You can get a roof that’s completely to code, but still beautiful and long lasting.

Get a quote today and see what you can get.