A new roof is one of the most significant investments you can make in your home, so it’s essential to protect that investment. One of the best ways to ensure your roof is covered in case of unexpected issues is by understanding your roof warranty. Roof warranties can provide peace of mind, but they’re often full of industry jargon that can be confusing for homeowners. In this blog, we’ll break down the different types of roof warranties, what they cover, and how you can make the most of your warranty.
Types of Roof Warranties
There are generally three types of roof warranties you’ll encounter when having a new roof installed or repaired: manufacturer’s warranties, workmanship warranties, and extended warranties. Each covers different aspects of your roof’s performance and installation, so it’s essential to understand the distinctions.
1. Manufacturer’s Warranty
A manufacturer’s warranty covers the roofing materials themselves. This warranty protects you against defects in the materials, such as faulty shingles, tiles, or metal panels. It guarantees that the products used on your roof will perform as intended for a specific period, usually ranging from 20 to 50 years, depending on the material and manufacturer.
Key Points:
- Coverage: Defects or premature failure of roofing materials (such as shingles curling, cracking, or breaking).
- Exclusions: Installation errors are typically not covered. The manufacturer’s warranty only covers material defects, not problems caused by improper installation.
- Duration: These warranties can range from 20 years to a lifetime, but the “lifetime” term often refers to a set number of years, usually around 50 years.
2. Workmanship Warranty
A workmanship warranty is provided by the roofing contractor and covers installation errors or defects in the workmanship. This warranty is crucial because even the best materials will fail if they’re installed incorrectly. The duration and scope of a workmanship warranty vary by contractor, so it’s essential to ask specific questions when getting your roof installed.
Key Points:
- Coverage: Defects due to improper installation, such as leaks or misaligned shingles.
- Exclusions: Material defects are typically covered under the manufacturer’s warranty, not the workmanship warranty.
- Duration: The length of a workmanship warranty can vary, typically ranging from 1 to 10 years.
3. Extended (Full-System) Warranty
Some manufacturers and roofing contractors offer extended warranties, which may provide more comprehensive coverage. These warranties can include both material and workmanship coverage, as well as extra protection for things like underlayment, flashing, and other roofing components.
Key Points:
- Coverage: Comprehensive protection that includes both material defects and installation issues.
- Exclusions: Extended warranties may still exclude certain types of damage, such as that caused by natural disasters.
- Duration: Extended warranties can last up to 50 years, depending on the manufacturer and the scope of coverage.
What Roof Warranties Typically Cover
Each roof warranty comes with its specific coverage, but here are some common things that warranties often include:
- Material Defects: As mentioned, manufacturer’s warranties cover material defects. This can include problems like curling, blistering, or cracking of shingles, and other forms of premature wear.
- Labor and Installation: If you have a workmanship warranty, any issues related to the way your roof was installed (such as improper flashing or poorly sealed vents) will be repaired by your contractor.
- Wind Resistance: Some warranties may specify coverage for wind-related damage up to a certain speed, typically between 60 to 130 mph, depending on the roof material.
- Algae Resistance: Certain warranties will cover algae growth, which can cause unsightly black streaks on shingles. This coverage is more common with warranties on algae-resistant roofing products.
What Roof Warranties Typically Don’t Cover
There are also several things that roof warranties usually won’t cover, so it’s essential to know the exclusions:
- Acts of Nature: Damage caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, or even hailstorms often isn’t covered under standard warranties. You’ll need homeowner’s insurance to address these issues.
- Improper Maintenance: Warranties generally don’t cover damage caused by neglect, such as not cleaning gutters or failing to address small leaks. Regular roof maintenance is crucial for keeping your warranty valid.
- Wear and Tear: Normal wear and tear over the years, such as slight fading or cosmetic issues, usually isn’t covered unless it affects the roof’s performance.
- Unauthorized Repairs: If you hire an unlicensed or non-certified contractor to make repairs, it could void your warranty.
How to Make the Most of Your Roof Warranty
Here are some tips to ensure you get the most value from your roof warranty and avoid common pitfalls:
1. Register Your Warranty
Some warranties require homeowners to register them within a specific period after installation. Failing to register your warranty may void your coverage. Be sure to fill out any paperwork provided by the contractor or manufacturer promptly.
2. Schedule Regular Inspections
Regular roof inspections and maintenance are key to keeping your warranty valid. Many warranties require you to have your roof inspected annually by a certified professional. Doing so ensures that any small issues are addressed before they turn into major problems, helping you avoid unnecessary costs.
3. Keep Records of Maintenance and Repairs
Be sure to document all roof inspections, repairs, and maintenance activities. Keeping accurate records will help you prove that you’ve followed the manufacturer’s and contractor’s guidelines for care, should you need to file a claim.
4. Work with Certified Contractors
If your roof needs repairs, make sure to hire a certified contractor approved by the manufacturer. Using a non-certified contractor could void your warranty, even if the work they perform is minor.
5. Understand the Fine Print
Read your warranty thoroughly to understand what’s covered and what’s not. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification on terms and conditions. Understanding the scope of your warranty can save you from unexpected costs later.
Conclusion
A roof warranty is an essential part of protecting your investment, but it’s crucial to understand exactly what your warranty covers—and what it doesn’t. Whether it’s a manufacturer’s warranty for materials or a workmanship warranty from your contractor, knowing your roof warranty’s details can help you avoid unnecessary costs and keep your roof in top condition for years to come.
Need a new roof or roof repairs? The Roofing Guys offer both high-quality roofing services and comprehensive warranties to protect your home. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about the warranty options available for your new roof. Get in touch now to ensure your roof is fully protected!
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