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Pre-Winter Flat Roof Checklist
Berkeley’s rain is concentrated in one stretch of the year — here’s what’s worth checking before it arrives.
Why This Matters in Berkeley Specifically
Berkeley gets the bulk of its roughly 23 inches of annual rainfall between November and March, with December typically the wettest month and February bringing the most rainy days. Atmospheric river storms can drop significant rainfall in a short window — exactly the conditions that expose a roof’s marginal weak points.
- Clear drains and scuppers of debris before the rains start
- Check flashing at parapets, chimneys, and skylights for cracking or gaps
- Look for ponding water that hasn’t cleared within 48 hours of the last rain
- Inspect any prior repair patches for signs of lifting or separation
- Confirm gutters and downspouts are clear if your roof drains to them
A Small Fix Now Beats an Emergency Later
A drying-out termination bar or an early seam separation caught in October is a straightforward repair. The same issue discovered mid-storm in January, with water actively coming through the ceiling, is a much more stressful and often more expensive situation.