Transforming a North La Jolla Gem: A Comprehensive Roof Replacement Case Study
This stunning property, situated just above La Jolla Shores off La Jolla Scenic Drive, represents the pinnacle of coastal living. In such a prestigious neighborhood, maintaining a home isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about preserving long-term value and structural integrity.
Recently, our team was called to perform a detailed inspection on this “North La Jolla gem” to address ongoing issues and prepare the home for the future.
The Challenge: Peeling Back the Layers
When we arrived for the initial free roof inspection, we discovered a “roof-on-roof” scenario that was causing significant problems. The home originally featured traditional wood shakes installed over skip sheathing. At some point, a metal roof had been installed directly over those shakes.
This shortcut had led to several critical issues:
- Hidden Leaks: Water was bypassing the metal layer and getting trapped in the old wood shakes.
- Structural Damage: The metal tiles were dented and compromised by foot traffic.
- Poor Transitions: The previous contractors were unable to properly “tie in” the flat roof sections to the sloped roof, leaving the home vulnerable to the elements.
The Solution: A Complete Re-Roof in La Jolla
To do the job right, we determined that a full roof replacement in La Jolla was the only way to ensure the home was truly protected. We performed a complete tear-off, removing both the failed metal tiles and the original wood shakes.
Because the original structure used “skip sheathing” (slats with gaps), we installed new, solid sheathing across the entire surface. This provided a perfectly flat, reinforced base for a modern, high-performance roofing system.
Why a “Cool Roof” Matters for Southern California
Choosing the right materials for a re-roof in La Jolla requires looking at more than just style. We selected Owens Corning Duration® COOL Shingles to address the specific environmental factors of the San Diego coast:
1. Energy Efficiency & Heat Mitigation
Local data suggests that energy costs for cooling homes in this area could rise by nearly 25% over the next 30 years. By installing a “Cool Roof” that reflects solar energy, we help keep the attic cooler and reduce the strain on the home’s AC system.
2. Fire Safety & Compliance
While this specific property has a minimal immediate wildfire risk, San Diego County ranks higher in risk than 98% of the rest of the country. We installed a Class ‘A’ fire-rated roof, meeting the strict safety standards required in sunny Southern California communities.
3. Coastal Wind Resistance
Living near the ocean means dealing with high-speed winds and salt air. The Duration® COOL shingles are engineered to withstand winds up to 130 MPH. Best of all, this system is backed by a lifetime warranty for as long as you own the home.
Invest in Your Home’s Future
A roof is your home’s first line of defense. By choosing a professional roof replacement in La Jolla, these homeowners have improved their curb appeal, slashed their future energy bills, and gained the peace of mind that comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Call Richardson Roofing today for a free estimate at (858) 284-9093.
