In a city like San Diego where weather conditions can be harsh, it’s critical to consider the best home roofing materials. Doing so will protect your property from drought, torrential rain, and cold temperatures. The following tips will help you pick the right roof for your home.
KNOW YOUR OPTIONS
The five most common roofing materials seen in San Diego residences include asphalt, cedar, metal, slate, and tile. Other homeowners opt for synthetic, wood-shingled roofs, or photovoltaic glass tiles.
Each roofing type has its benefits and drawbacks, and there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ option for householders throughout the city. The key to choosing the right material is learning about the differences between these options with the help of a trusted roofing contractor.
CHECK THE ROOF’S PITCH
Your roof’s pitch, angle, or slope can influence the material that suits the property. Asphalt shingles, the most prevalent type, are ideal for homes with steep pitches. Flat roofing choices include EPDM, TPO, or PVC membrane and standing seam metal roofing.
UNDERSTAND ITS MAINTENANCE NEEDS
All home roofing materials have distinct maintenance requirements. Some need quarterly checking, while others only require annual inspections. Upkeep and repair costs also vary between each type depending on complexity and frequency.
CONSIDER ITS ENERGY-EFFICIENCY
Roofs can have a significant impact on your monthly energy consumption. Light-colored roofs reflect light better than darker ones, which can help keep your home cool during San Diego’s warmest days. Specific roofing materials like metal and asphalt shingles also have reflective properties that prevent heat from transferring to the home’s interiors.
MATCH THE HOME’S AESTHETIC
Certain roofing materials match specific architectural styles. For instance, clay barrel tiles work well in Mediterranean and Spanish-style homes, while metal roofing is ideal for modern, luxurious estates.
Factoring in the property’s exteriors when choosing a roofing material is crucial to boosting its curb appeal and value. For home sellers, roofs that match the house’s aesthetics can attract more buyers and better offers.
THINK OF THE WARRANTY
Two warranties are often given after roof installations: one covering the material and another for the contractor’s services.
Every material type has a distinct warranty coverage period. Asphalt shingles are protected for 25 to 30 years, while synthetic roofs typically come with a lifetime limited material warranty. Understanding each type’s warranty terms and coverage periods can help you make the right choice and ensure that the manufacturer offers a replacement if ever an issue arises.
REMEMBER THE WEIGHT
Heavier home roofing materials take longer to install and have pricier labor costs. They can also affect the property’s structural integrity. The heftier the roof is, the greater the pressure the home receives.
CHECK LOCAL BUILDING CODES
The city of San Diego does not require owners of single-family homes, townhouses, and duplexes to present a permit when removing and replacing their properties’ damaged roofs–given that the sheathing or decking’s surface area does not exceed 25% of the entire roof.
Understanding the city’s local building codes can keep you from paying fines for committing violations. It can also help avoid losses if the new roof gets taken down.
Roof repairs and replacements are essential before putting up San Diego homes for sale. Other improvements are necessary, and I, expert Realtor Michael Jacobo, can help point them out.
Call me at 760.632.8900 or send me an email here to receive unmatched guidance in preparing your property for listing.