Best Roof Types for California: 7 Materials to Consider

California is known and loved mostly for its unique weather. While the northern part of the state does have weather more similar to the northern U.S. and a balance of all 4 seasons, SoCal (Southern California) is what most people think of when it comes to California. 

SoCal hosts the vast majority of the Californian population and its alluring weather and environment are largely responsible for that. Situated next to the Pacific Ocean  and far enough south that winter almost never brings snow, SoCal has a sunny, dry climate that offers little in the way of precipitative events and other weather hazards. 

However, the ideal weather comes with its own set of challenges, especially when considering the best roof material for Southern California. In case you’re wondering what a California roof is, let’s take a look at some of the best California roof types to choose from. 

1. Metal

Metal roofing is a great choice for a California roof because it reflects heat. California is notorious for the level of sunshine it gets on a regular basis and metal roofing is a great way to reflect the relentless sunlight.

Of course, metal is also really low-maintenance and especially in areas with less precipitation, it can last a long time with zero upkeep. It’s also impervious to fire, which is a huge benefit in a climate like SoCal that frequently sees threats from wildfires.

2. Vinyl

Vinyl roofing is also great for helping to reflect sunlight. Lighter colors do well and vinyl has the added benefit of being the cheapest roofing material for a California style roof. It requires very little upkeep and while it won’t last as long as something like metal will, it's generally one of the best roof types in California. 

Its only vulnerability is to impact damage, but with a lack of hail, high winds are really the only concern with vinyl. It’s not terribly flammable either, though it certainly doesn’t have an impeccable fire rating.

3. Slate

Slate is made from natural rock and is another great choice for those who want a stylish roof that won’t burn up in a wildfire and can withstand sunlight as well as high temps. Slate is rather low-maintenance, and only requires a basic inspection every now and then to ensure there's been no cracking or damage. If price is not a concern for you, slate is certainly a viable option for a great California roof style.

4. Clay Tile

Clay tiles are a massively popular roofing option in the southern U.S., especially for California roofs. They seem to be a preferred aesthetic and they also hold up well against the natural elements that they face.

Clay is quite fireproof and makes a great choice for areas in danger of wildfires. It also has a unique look that is particularly appealing to many people. Clay can require a bit more upkeep as the tiles can become weathered and cracked, with clay roofs not lasting quite as long as other types of roofs.

5. Asphalt

Asphalt shingles are the number one choice of roofing in America, and roofs in California are no exception. Asphalt shingles are the most popular choice of roofing because of their price, ease of installation, general durability, and the fact that they’re already an established trend. If everyone on a block already has asphalt shingles, the first choice of roofing that comes to mind for the next person to build a home on that block is going to be asphalt, in all likelihood.

Asphalt is decently fire and impact resistant as well. It can be vulnerable to high winds and does tend to degrade over time from UV exposure. It can get hot and sticky in direct sun as well, which is more of a problem for birds than people. It’s cost effective and easy to maintain, which makes asphalt shingles a go-to just about anywhere.

6. Wood

Wooden roofing like cedar shakes is another hugely popular option in SoCal. The lack of rain makes maintenance rather easy, though they are still vulnerable to fire, high winds, insects, and UV exposure as well.

Real wood takes a lot of maintenance to keep from deteriorating and even under the best circumstances, wood will last 30 years, max. It is, however, one of the most beautiful types of roofing.

7. Synthetic Cedar

Synthetic cedar shakes from companies like CeDUR, are without a doubt, the best roofing option for SoCal. They are just as durable as any other material, if not more. They are also identical to real wood, despite being made from high-quality plastic. 

In a variety of shades and styles like Live Oak, Walden, Shiloh, and Golden Cedar, CeDUR has something for everybody. Synthetic cedar shakes require almost zero maintenance and can last an entire lifetime, despite being just as beautiful as natural wooden roofing.

Synthetic Cedar is the Number One Choice for California Roofing

Having earned a Class A fire rating and a Class 4 impact resistance rating, it’s safe to say that when it comes to durability as well as aesthetic beauty, longevity, and cost efficiency, synthetic cedar shakes are the best roofing material for Southern California.

If you’re looking for the best types of roofs in California, you can’t go wrong with a gorgeous new synthetic cedar shake roof from CeDUR!

To learn more about CeDUR® Shake, contact us today or view our gallery.