Planning a roof installation raises dozens of questions. What materials make sense for San Diego? How long will the project take? What should you watch for when evaluating contractors? Understanding these factors helps you make confident decisions.
Choosing the Right Materials
San Diego's climate influences material selection more than you might expect. Our intense UV exposure degrades some materials faster than manufacturer warranties suggest. Coastal salt air affects certain metals. Occasional heavy rains demand proper waterproofing.
Asphalt shingles work well for most homes. Look for products rated for UV resistance and algae resistance. Architectural shingles offer better appearance and performance than basic three-tab options. In San Diego's climate, expect 20 to 25 years of service with good maintenance.
Tile roofs suit Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean, and Southwestern architectural styles. Clay and concrete tiles handle our sunny climate exceptionally well. They last 50 years or more when properly maintained. Weight is the main consideration—many homes need structural evaluation before tile installation.
Metal roofing has grown popular for contemporary homes. The material reflects solar radiation, reducing cooling costs. Properly coated steel or aluminum handles coastal conditions. Service life reaches 40 to 60 years, roughly double asphalt shingles.
Flat roof materials serve additions, garages, and ADUs. TPO membrane leads in popularity for its reflectivity and durability. Modified bitumen and built-up roofing remain options for specific applications.
What Labor Involves
Roof installation is physically demanding, skilled work. Quality results depend on crews who understand proper technique.
The tear-off phase removes old materials down to the deck. This is the messiest part of any roofing project. Debris fills dumpsters while the crew works quickly to minimize exposure time.
Deck inspection happens during tear-off. Hidden damage often appears only after old roofing comes off. Quality contractors document findings and discuss any scope changes before proceeding.
Underlayment installation creates the waterproof foundation. This step matters more than most homeowners realize. Proper overlap, sealing around penetrations, and full coverage protect your home even if shingles take damage later.
Shingle or tile installation follows systematic patterns. Starting at eaves and working up, each course overlaps the one below. Nailing patterns, exposure dimensions, and alignment all follow manufacturer specifications and building codes.
Flashing installation at transitions—walls, chimneys, valleys, penetrations—requires precision. These details cause most leak problems when done poorly.
Finding the Right Contractor
License verification should be your first step. California's Contractors State License Board maintains public records showing license status and any complaints or disciplinary actions.
Insurance confirmation protects your family. Request certificates for general liability and workers compensation. Call the carrier to verify coverage is current.
References from recent local projects matter more than online reviews. Ask for contacts from jobs completed in the past year. Speaking directly with past clients reveals more than star ratings.
Written estimates should detail materials, scope, timeline, and payment terms. Compare estimates item by item rather than just bottom-line numbers. The cheapest bid often signals inferior materials or missing work.
Communication quality during the estimate process predicts project experience. Contractors who return calls promptly, answer questions clearly, and show up when promised will likely perform the same way during construction.
Project scheduling works best during San Diego's dry season. Rain delays extend timelines and can damage exposed decking. Spring through fall provides the most reliable weather for roofing work.
