Marin's split climate
The Energy Commission puts San Rafael, Novato, Larkspur, San Anselmo, Fairfax, Ross and Kentfield in climate zone 2, and Mill Valley, Sausalito, Tiburon, Corte Madera and Belvedere in climate zone 3 (CEC climate zones). Neither zone has the 2025 Energy Code's prescriptive cool-roof requirement for home reroofs.
| Roofing material | Estimated life (years) |
|---|---|
| Asphalt shingles (3-tab) | 20 |
| Asphalt shingles (architectural) | 30 |
| Wood shakes or shingles | 25 |
| Metal | 40 to 80 |
| Clay or concrete tile | 100+ |
| Slate | 60 to 150 |
| Built-up roofing (flat) | 30 |
| Modified bitumen (flat) | 20 |
| TPO (flat) | 7 to 20 |
| EPDM rubber (flat) | 15 to 25 |
Source: InterNACHI.
Signs of a short-lived Marin roof
- Thick moss on north and shaded slopes.
- Green staining and soft spots at the eaves.
- Rusted nails and flashing near the bay.
Making it last
Clear needles from valleys and gutters every fall, trim branches back from the roof, and treat moss before it lifts shingles.
Every roofer we work with is licensed, insured and highly reviewed by Bay Area homeowners.
Get a free replacement quoteFrequently asked questions
How long does a metal roof last?
InterNACHI lists metal at 40 to 80 years. Under trees, valleys and gutters still need regular clearing.
Which Marin towns are climate zone 3?
Mill Valley, Sausalito, Tiburon, Corte Madera and Belvedere, per the CEC ZIP list.
How do I find my last reroof permit?
Ask your town's building department, or the County if you're unincorporated.
Sources
Sources reviewed November 11, 2026. Figures are published estimates and official fees, not quotes. Confirm prices, permits and requirements with your contractor and building department. This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice.