The roof of your home plays an important role, shielding you from the elements and contributing to the overall energy efficiency and security of your dwelling. It is one of the most significant investments you can make for your home, and with that investment comes the peace of mind that your roof will protect your home for many years.
As with many large purchases, it comes with a warranty, outlining specific protections and guarantees that you can receive in case something goes wrong with your roof. However, not all warranties are the same, and knowing what’s included in your coverage can help you avoid unpleasant surprises down the road.
In this guide, we’ll break down the typical components of a roofing warranty, the different types of warranties available, and what you should expect from your coverage.
What Is a Roof Warranty?
A roof warranty is essentially a guarantee from either the roofing manufacturer or the contractor that covers specific repairs or replacements in case of material defects, installation errors, or other issues. It provides homeowners with a level of protection and reassurance that they won’t be left dealing with costly roof repairs on their own.
However, the scope of coverage varies depending on the type of warranty you have. Some warranties only cover materials, while others may include workmanship or labor. Knowing the difference between these warranties and their exclusions is the best way to make the most of this protection.
Types of Roofing Warranties
There are generally two main types of roofing warranties each covering different aspects of the roofing system. Let’s explore each in detail.
- Manufacturer Warranty
A manufacturer warranty is provided by the roofing material manufacturer and primarily covers defects in the roofing materials. This type of warranty covers the materials used on your roof and serves as proof that they meet the company’s quality standards. If the materials fail or are defective, the manufacturer will typically replace them at no cost to you.
Manufacturer warranties can vary greatly in length and coverage, ranging from 20 years to lifetime warranties, depending on the material and the company. It’s important to read the fine print carefully, as some warranties may only cover the cost of materials and not labor or other associated costs. Additionally, some warranties are prorated, meaning the coverage diminishes over time.
Common Inclusions in Manufacturer Warranties
- Material Defects: If the roofing material itself has flaws that lead to premature deterioration.
- Premature Aging: Coverage for issues like curling, cracking, or splitting of shingles before the expected lifespan.
- Wind or Hail Resistance: In some cases, materials may come with guarantees to withstand a certain level of wind or hail impact.
However, it’s essential to note that manufacturer warranties do not cover installation issues or damage caused by external factors like poor maintenance or extreme weather.
- Contractor (Workmanship) Warranty
The contractor warranty, also known as a workmanship warranty, is provided by the roofing contractor who installs your roof. This warranty covers the quality of the installation work. If your roof fails due to improper installation or errors made by the contractor, this warranty ensures that they will come back to fix the issue without charging you extra.
Workmanship warranties vary widely depending on the contractor. Some contractors offer limited warranties for just a few years, while others may provide warranties lasting 10 years or more. When choosing a contractor, it’s important to ask about their workmanship warranty to ensure you’re covered in case something goes wrong with the installation.
Common Inclusions in Contractor Warranties
- Installation Errors: Any mistakes made during the installation process, such as incorrect shingle placement or poor flashing installation, are typically covered.
- Labor Costs: In most cases, the contractor will cover the cost of labor to repair any installation-related issues.
- Roof Leaks: If a leak occurs due to improper installation within the warranty period, the contractor will typically be responsible for fixing it.
However, a contractor’s warranty may not cover issues caused by improper maintenance, damage from external sources, or defects in the materials themselves.
Key Components of a Roofing Warranty
A well-structured warranty should clearly define what is covered, how long the coverage lasts, and any conditions that may void the warranty.
- Length of Coverage
One of the most significant aspects of a roof warranty is the duration of coverage. These warranties typically range from 20 years to lifetime coverage, depending on the type of material and the manufacturer or contractor.
- Standard Coverage: Most manufacturer warranties offer around 20 to 30 years of coverage for basic roofing materials like asphalt shingles. For higher-end materials, such as metal or slate, lifetime warranties are common.
- Prorated Vs. Non-Prorated Warranties: Some warranties are prorated, meaning the level of coverage diminishes over time. For example, a warranty might cover 100% of the replacement cost for the first 10 years, but after that, you may be responsible for a portion of the repair costs. Non-prorated warranties, on the other hand, cover 100% of the repair or replacement costs for the entire warranty period.
- Material and Labor Coverage
Warranties can either cover just the materials, just the labor, or both. Most manufacturer warranties only cover material defects, while labor is often covered under a contractor’s workmanship warranty. However, some extended warranties or premium packages may include both material and labor coverage, offering more comprehensive protection.
- Material Coverage: This includes the replacement of faulty or defective roofing materials, such as shingles, tiles, or metal panels. It’s important to know if your warranty covers only the cost of the materials or if it also includes associated costs like labor or disposal fees.
- Labor Coverage: If labor costs are included in your warranty, this means that the contractor will cover the cost of removing and replacing defective materials. Without labor coverage, you may have to pay out of pocket for this part of the repair or replacement.
What Isn’t Covered in a Roof Warranty?
There are several common exclusions that you should be aware of:
- Natural Disasters: Events like hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and floods are typically excluded.
- Improper Maintenance: Neglecting regular upkeep, such as cleaning gutters or repairing minor issues, can void the warranty.
- Poor Ventilation: Damage caused by inadequate ventilation isn’t covered.
- Roof Alterations: Installing skylights, satellite dishes, or solar panels without proper care may void coverage.
- Ownership Transfer: Many warranties are non-transferable, or coverage may reduce if the home is sold. Always check these details before transferring ownership.
How to Maximize Your Roofing Warranty
There are steps homeowners can take to maximize the benefits and ensure that the warranty remains valid throughout its term. By understanding and adhering to these best practices, you can make the most out of your warranty and prevent potential issues.
- Read the Fine Print
Warranties can be complex, with specific clauses and exclusions that may not be immediately apparent. It’s important to carefully read the fine print of your warranty to fully understand what is covered and what isn’t. Pay special attention to details such as maintenance requirements, conditions that could void the warranty, and the duration of coverage for different aspects of the warranty (materials, labor, etc.).
If you’re unsure about any part of your warranty, don’t hesitate to ask your contractor or the manufacturer for clarification. It’s better to address any concerns upfront than to face surprises later when you need to make a claim.
- Keep Documentation
Maintaining proper documentation is essential for ensuring that your warranty remains valid. This includes keeping receipts and records of the original installation, as well as any subsequent maintenance or repairs performed on the roof. In the event that you need to make a warranty claim, having a comprehensive record of your roof’s history will help streamline the process and prevent disputes.
Additionally, if you sell your home and the warranty is transferable, this documentation will be valuable to the new owner.
- Work with a Reputable Contractor
One of the best ways to keep your warranty intact is to work with a reputable contractor from the start. Poor workmanship or the use of substandard materials can void your warranty and lead to costly repairs down the line. A professional contractor will follow manufacturer guidelines, install the roof correctly, and provide the necessary documentation to validate the warranty.
Danes Roofing, LLC takes pride in delivering top-quality commercial and residential roofing services that align with manufacturer standards, keeping your warranty valid. We stand behind our work, offering you peace of mind for years to come.
- Schedule Regular Inspections
Routine inspections are essential for identifying minor issues before they become major problems. A professional roofing inspection will extend the life of your roof and help you fulfill any maintenance requirements outlined in your warranty. It’s recommended to schedule an inspection at least once a year or after major storms to catch any potential issues early on.
Danes Roofing, LLC: Your Roofing Warranty Experts
At Danes Roofing, LLC, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch residential and commercial roofing services backed by comprehensive warranties that protect your investment. Every roof we install or repair is done with the utmost care and professionalism.
Whether you’re installing a new roof, repairing damage, or scheduling routine inspections, we’ll guide you through the process and ensure your warranty remains valid. We prioritize long-term relationships with our clients, offering expert advice and exceptional service every step of the way.
A Roof Over Your Head: Secured and Guaranteed
A roofing warranty is a vital safeguard for one of your home’s most important features. Understanding the nuances of what your warranty covers, the conditions under which it operates, and how to maintain its validity can make all the difference in your home’s upkeep and your peace of mind.
Do you need help understanding your current warranty or installing a new roof with reliable coverage? We are here to assist you. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you protect your investment.