Roofing Contractors in San Francisco, CA
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Roof Installation Buying Guide for San Francisco, California
No matter what time of year you’re having a new roof installed, it’s going to be expensive and time consuming. On average, a new roof can take 4 – 10 days, depending on the size of the roof and any repairs that are necessary prior to a new roof installation. Use a checklist to ensure the project runs as quickly and as smoothly as possible.
Prior to Roof Installation
Schedule any exterior repair work, painting, or tree branch trimming prior to the new roof being installed. This will prevent any unnecessary traffic on the new roof, and prevent paint from splattering on new roofing material. To get an estimate for the cost of a new roof, this online roofing cost calculator can help.
San Francisco Climate for Roofing Needs
The climate where you live plays a role in roof selection. Where excessive heat is a factor, certain roofing materials are better adapted to solar rays than others. In San Francisco, the city receives an average amount of rainfall, no snow, and has had record lows of 23 degrees and record highs of 103 degrees. Overall, the temperatures are moderate year-round. Your contractor can advise you on the best choice for your San Francisco property.
Financing, Rebates, Incentives and Tax Credit Resources in San Francisco
Investing in a new roof isn’t cheap and it’s best to have your financing in place as well as utilizing any available programs to help defray the cost. This short list covers several areas you may want to consider.
- Federal Tax Credits – available when using Energy Star products
- U.S. Department of Energy – a listing of a variety of programs available in California
- HERO (Home Energy Renovation Opportunity) – for low cost financing
You also have the options of a home equity loan, credit card, or financing from the roofing company.
San Francisco Roofing Contractor Selection
Hiring a contractor is a critical step, because you need someone with the experience and the proper roofing license to do the job. Using anyone who does not carry a legitimate California license as well as insurance can cost you additional money because a new roof must be inspected by a city inspector to meet city building codes.
Eliminate the possibility of someone trying to get around the law by asking for proof of license and insurance from the contractor. Write down the contractor’s business license number then check it on the California State License Board website. This site is for consumers to ensure the person you’re hiring has the appropriate credentials to do the job.
City of San Francisco Roofing Permit
Be aware that you must apply for a permit from the City of San Francisco prior to installing a new roof. What the city asks for in regard to roof replacement is that you use materials compatible with nearby structures and that you keep the architectural style of the property in mind. While over-the-counter applications are excepted, it’s recommended that you speak with a permit services representative at the Planning Information Center (PIC) to ensure you understand all of the requirements concerning building codes. You can visit the office located at 1660 Mission Street, 1st, Floor or call (415) 558-6088. Failure to get a license prior to installation results in a fine.
Types of Roofing Material
A knowledgeable contractor will be able to help you choose the appropriate roofing material for your home. There is a wide range in material types, longevity and cost. This list will give you an idea of what’s available.
- For a quaint look, wood shingles and wood shakes work well. Both machine cut and handmade, the material is available in several wood choices such as cedar or redwood. This material has a 15 – 20 year life span. The fire rating may be an issue so check this with the contractor.
- Add a stylish look to your roof with slate shingles. More expensive than most roofing materials, slate can last up to 100 years. It’s excellent at deflecting sunshine and the material is recyclable.
- If energy efficiency is a top priority, consider reflective (cool) roofing. This material is specifically designed to manage solar rays and keep interiors comfortable.
- For a light-weight roofing material, choose a copper roof, aluminum or stainless steel metal roof. This material is durable, recyclable, and has a 50-year life span.
- To keep the cost low, asphalt is the way to go. Easy to install, asphalt shingles come in a variety of color options and has a 15 – 30 year life, making it an attractive to many homeowners.
- Concrete tile roofing and clay tile roofs are also on the expensive side because a special framework is necessary to hold the added weight of the material. Also available in a palette of colors, the tiles are non-combustible, reflect the sun’s rays, are durable, and last up to 50 years.
- Fiber cement tiles are much lighter than their concrete and clay counterparts. The tiles are versatile, work with most roof designs, are fireproof, and last 20 – 30 years.
Once you have financing in place, a contractor, the required permits permit for the City of San Francisco, and your chosen roofing material, you’re well on your way to a successful project. With a new roof, you’ve ensured your home will be ready for seasonal weather come rain or come shine.