California Roofing Contractors

About California Roofing

Due to a range in climate conditions in California, there are many services provided by roofing contractors in the state. Anything from regular maintenance, tile replacement, moss or algae removal, debris removal, annual inspections, or recoating, a roofing contractor can take care of it. Installing solar panels is also becoming increasingly more popular in California and roofing contractors now offer that service.

Typical Climate In California

California is a large state with a varied climate that's rather extreme. Generally, though, most of the state enjoys mild summers and cool winters. Only in the higher elevations are the four seasons more prevalent. Coastal areas have the most constant whether, with temperatures differences of seldom more than 10 degrees. Desert areas experience extreme heat with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. Temperatures in more populated areas range from anywhere between 61 and 93 degrees. Precipitation also varies with desert areas hardly registering precipitation averages to coastal cities, like San Francisco, averaging 20 inches of rainfall a year.

Common Roofing Issues In California

One roofing issue that can be unique to California homeowners is roof fires. This can be caused by dry debris igniting in the hot sun or by embers escaping through a spark arrestor on a chimney. Climate is the biggest contributing factor to roof damage in California. High winds, long exposure to heat or sun, salty air, or the buildup of moss under roofs that don't have direct sun exposure can all lead to deterioration of roofing, which can lead to leaks.

Licensing In California

All businesses or individuals who work on any building or structure must obtain a license from the California Contractors State License Board if the project costs $500 or more. Roofing contractors are required to hold a Class C license and must have had at least four years of experience in the last 10 years as a journeyman, foreman, supervising employee, contractor, or owner-builder. Contractors are required to pass the Board's Business and Law Exam to get a license.

Energy Efficient Roofs In California

ENERGY STAR lists 24 roofing companies as partners in the state of California. These companies offer a wide range of coatings to reduce energy consumption, extend the life of roofs and deflect UV rays.

Unusual Roofs In California

As a large state and with a reputation for being on the forefront of creativity, California is home to many architectural works of art. The Allewelt House is one example, which features a gable-roofed central courtyard, providing an interesting adaptation to a common architectural feature in Central Californian homes. Tile roofs are common in California but can be used to add character to a structure. The D.L. James house in Carmel Heights is a good example because it's constructed primarily of stone so the house seems to rise out of the ground, but the tiled roof adds color and dimension. Roofs can be used to play with the shape of a building and the interior lighting. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Los Angeles exemplifies this. A semicircular dome roof blends Western and Eastern theories of geometric composition and yin and yang. The building also incorporates strategically placed skylights that are linear, cylindrical and pyramidal.