Torrance’s Water Conservation Push Creates New Opportunities for Smart Roofing Solutions
As Southern California continues to face ongoing drought conditions and water scarcity challenges, the City of Torrance has implemented comprehensive water conservation mandates that are reshaping how homeowners and businesses approach water management. In 2009, the Torrance City Council adopted a Water Conservation Ordinance (Ordinance 3717) to prohibit wasteful uses of water, place certain restrictions on water use and encourage sustained conservation. The Ordinance has four stages (Permanent Baseline Measured, Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 Stages), which are enacted in response to the water supply conditions. These regulations present a unique opportunity for forward-thinking property owners to integrate rainwater harvesting systems into their roofing infrastructure.
Understanding Torrance’s Water Conservation Requirements
Currently operating under Level 1 restrictions, Torrance residents face specific limitations on water usage. Watering or irrigating of lawns, landscape or other vegetated areas with potable (drinking) water is prohibited between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., except by use of a hand-held bucket or hand-held hose equipped with a positive self-closing water shut-off nozzle for very short periods. Outdoor watering days are limited to no more than 3 days per week. Watering or irrigating lawns, landscape other vegetated areas with potable water is limited to no more than 15 minutes watering per day per area or per irrigation station. Additionally, the application of potable water to outdoor landscapes during and up to forty eight (48) hours after measurable rainfall is prohibited.
These restrictions underscore the city’s commitment to water conservation, with the City setting a goal to become 80% water independent in order to improve water reliability and reliance on imported water. For homeowners, this creates both challenges and opportunities to find alternative water sources for their properties.
The Role of Professional Roofers in Rainwater Harvesting Integration
Successful rainwater harvesting begins with proper roof design and installation. Out of all the components of a rainwater harvesting system, the catchment area is one of the most significant. Rooftops are excellent catchment areas, serving as the initial point of contact for collecting rainwater. Your rooftop’s surface plays a pivotal role in the efficiency and effectiveness of rainwater harvesting, influencing the quantity of water collected and its quality.
When considering a rainwater harvesting system, the choice of roofing materials becomes critical. If you’re installing a new roof for the purpose of collecting rainwater, standing seam metal may be your best choice. A high quality enameled roofing material that is easy to clean, standing seam metal offers the highest collection efficiency available. The roof material — be it metal, tile, asphalt shingles, or green roofing — significantly impacts the quality of water collected. For instance, roofs made of metal or clay tiles are preferred for their ability to provide cleaner water, as they are less likely to leach chemicals or harbor contaminants than asphalt shingles.
Royal Roofing: Your Partner in Sustainable Water Solutions
For Torrance residents looking to integrate rainwater harvesting systems with their roofing needs, choosing an experienced contractor is essential. For nearly 50 years, Royal Roofing has been committed to providing homeowners with affordable and long-lasting roofing solutions. We offer low monthly payment plans and no-interest options to make your roofing project, whether a small repair or transformative replacement, a manageable and valuable investment in your home.
By treating every client like family and consistently delivering superior quality and service, we strive to become your local roofing contractor for life. As a family-owned and operated business, we focus on building long-term relationships that span generations. As a Los Angeles based local roofer, we are proud to serve all of Southern California including Beverly Hills, Orange County, San Fernando Valley, Long Beach and San Pedro, and the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys.
Technical Considerations for Rainwater Harvesting Systems
Effective rainwater harvesting systems require careful planning and professional installation. Size of catchment area (roof size): A larger roof area can capture significant amounts of precipitation, even in areas of low rainfall availability. Roof pitch and type: Roof material and pitch influence the amount of water that can be harvested. Lower-pitched roofs tend to catch more water than steeply pitched roofs. Smoother roof textures will facilitate runoff better than textured roofs.
The integration process involves several key components that must work seamlessly together. Collection system: Roof surface and gutters to capture the rainwater and send it to the storage system, along with proper filtration and storage solutions. The choice of materials for gutters and downspouts is influenced by factors such as the local climate, the amount of rainfall, and the quality of the harvested water required. Materials that resist corrosion and wear and do not leach harmful substances into the water are preferable. Furthermore, the design of the conveyance system, including the slope of the gutters, the size of the downspouts, and the integration of leaf screens or guards, plays a significant role in maintaining water quality and flow.
Financial and Environmental Benefits
Beyond compliance with Torrance’s water conservation mandates, rainwater harvesting systems offer significant long-term benefits. A standard assessment is that for every inch of rain across a 1,000 sq ft of roofing, the attached water collection system will harvest approximately 600 gallons of water. For Torrance homeowners facing increasing water rates and restrictions, this represents substantial potential savings.
Rainwater Harvesting Systems (RWHS) are an alternative solution with the potential to increase water supply security and reduce the pressure on water resources and urban stormwater drainage systems. Additionally, these systems help reduce stormwater runoff, which can contribute to local flooding and water quality issues.
Professional Installation Matters
While some homeowners may consider DIY approaches, professional installation ensures optimal performance and compliance with local building codes. An experienced roofer Torrance residents trust can assess your property’s specific needs, recommend appropriate materials, and integrate harvesting systems without compromising roof integrity.
Steve Pinkus, President and CEO of Royal Roofing since 1995, brings nearly four decades of hands-on experience to our company. With more than $75 million in roofing, restoration, and repair sales, he leads with a deep commitment to quality construction and total customer satisfaction. This level of expertise ensures that your rainwater harvesting integration will be designed and installed to maximize both water collection efficiency and roof longevity.
Moving Forward with Water-Smart Roofing
As Torrance continues to implement and potentially strengthen its water conservation measures, property owners who proactively integrate rainwater harvesting systems will be well-positioned to meet future requirements while reducing their environmental impact and utility costs. The key is working with experienced professionals who understand both the technical requirements of effective water collection and the structural integrity needed for long-lasting roofing systems.
By combining Torrance’s conservation mandates with innovative roofing solutions, homeowners can transform their properties into water-efficient, environmentally responsible investments that serve their families for decades to come.