Questions about a roof in San Jose, answered
Short answers to what San Jose homeowners ask most often. Each answer points to the page that covers it in more detail.
- Santa Clara Valley roofs
- Storm and leak repairs
- Roof replacement
Get a fast quote
Fastest: call (833) 751-2102. Or send this and we call you back.
Storms and leaks
What should I do when water comes through the ceiling?
Switch off the light near the water at the wall, place a container under the drip and call (833) 751-2102. Photograph the stain with the date.
Why is the stain not directly below the leak?
Water runs along rafters and boards before it drops, so the stain can be some way from the entry point. The attic is read to find the source.
Does a long wet spell show faults that a dry one hides?
Yes. A soaking storm saturates the wood and forces water into joints that held in light rain, so valleys and flashings are checked first.
Licence and cover
What licence does a roofer need in California?
The C-39 roofing classification from the Contractors State License Board. The number can be checked on the board's website.
Does a roofer with no employees need workers' compensation?
Yes. A C-39 roofer must carry workers' compensation coverage even with no employees, according to the board's 2018 newsletter.
Attic, trees and the old roof
Why does my attic feel damp on cold mornings?
Warm, moist air from the house condenses on the cold boards overnight. Clearing the intake and redirecting any bathroom duct usually helps.
Should I cut branches over my roof myself?
No. Tree work belongs to a qualified arborist. The roof crew records the contact points and recommends the work.
Can an original 1920s roof be recovered?
Only if the deck is firm and there is one sound layer. Many original roofs need a strip, and the technician counts the layers and reads the deck first.
Question not answered here?
Call and ask. A technician will give you a straight answer, even if the answer is that you do not need us.