Understanding Roofing Warranties: What You Need to Know
- Muhammad
- Apr 10
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 13
Introduction
Roofing warranties are an essential part of the roofing process, offering protection for your investment. A warranty guarantees that your roof will perform as expected, and if any issues arise within a certain period, you can have them addressed without additional cost. However, not all warranties are created equal, and understanding what’s covered and what’s not is crucial before making any decisions. In this article, we’ll break down the different types of roofing warranties, what they cover, and what you need to know to make the most of your warranty.
Types of Roofing Warranties
When purchasing a new roof, there are three main types of warranties to consider: manufacturer’s warranties, contractor’s warranties, and system warranties. Each type serves a different purpose and covers different aspects of the roofing installation or material.
Warranty Type | Coverage | Duration | Pros | Cons |
Manufacturer's Warranty | Covers defects in materials or products | 10-50 years, depending on materials | Reliable protection for materials used | May not cover installation errors |
Contractor's Warranty | Covers quality of installation | Typically 1-5 years | Protects against poor workmanship | Limited in scope and time |
System Warranty | Covers both materials and installation | 20-50 years, depending on system | Comprehensive, long-term coverage | Requires full system installation |
Manufacturer’s Warranty
A manufacturer’s warranty is provided by the company that makes the roofing materials. It typically covers any defects in the materials, such as peeling shingles or poor manufacturing. Manufacturer warranties can last anywhere from 10 to 50 years, depending on the type of material and brand. However, it’s important to note that this warranty usually doesn’t cover installation errors.
What’s covered:
Defective materials, early signs of wear, and manufacturing defects.
Common exclusions:
Damage from improper installation, failure to maintain the roof, or weather-related issues.
Contractor’s Warranty
A contractor’s warranty is provided by the roofing contractor who installs your roof. This warranty ensures that if the installation is done incorrectly, they will fix it at no cost to you. These warranties typically last between 1 and 5 years, depending on the contractor and the terms of the agreement.
What’s covered:
Installation errors, leaks, and other issues directly related to the workmanship.
Common exclusions:
Manufacturer defects, improper maintenance, or damage from storms.
System Warranty
A system warranty is a more comprehensive warranty that covers both the materials and the installation. This type of warranty usually lasts between 20 and 50 years and is offered by manufacturers or authorized contractors. System warranties are typically associated with specific roof systems that combine materials and installation practices, ensuring the overall system performs as expected.
What’s covered:
Both materials and installation, offering more protection than individual warranties.
Common exclusions:
Maintenance issues, damage caused by external factors, or failure to follow the maintenance guidelines.
Key Factors That Affect Roofing Warranties
Several factors can affect the effectiveness and validity of your roofing warranty. Here are the most important ones to keep in mind:
Roof Material and Installation:
The type of roofing material you choose will play a role in the warranty offered. Some materials, like metal or TPO, come with longer warranties compared to others.
Proper Maintenance and Upkeep:
Many warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid. Neglecting maintenance could result in the warranty being voided.
Transferability:
Some warranties can be transferred to a new homeowner if you sell the property, while others may be non-transferable. Check with the manufacturer to understand the transfer policies.
Common Exclusions in Roofing Warranties
Not everything is covered under roofing warranties. Common exclusions include:
Wear and Tear:
Most warranties do not cover damage caused by normal wear and tear, including cosmetic issues.
Improper Installation:
If the roof was not installed correctly by a licensed contractor, the warranty might not cover repairs.
Lack of Maintenance:
Failure to follow the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines can void the warranty.
Weather-Related Damage:
Some warranties do not cover damage caused by extreme weather conditions like hurricanes, tornadoes, or earthquakes.
How to Ensure Your Warranty Stays Valid
To keep your roofing warranty intact, follow these steps:
Follow Maintenance Guidelines:
Most roofing manufacturers and contractors provide specific maintenance instructions to help keep your warranty valid. This can include cleaning gutters, inspecting the roof regularly, and ensuring proper ventilation.
Work with Certified Professionals:
To avoid issues with the warranty, make sure all repairs or inspections are done by certified roofing professionals who understand the warranty’s terms.
Register Your Warranty:
Some manufacturers require you to register your warranty after installation. Be sure to complete this step to ensure the warranty is valid.
What Happens if Your Roof is Not Covered by Warranty?
If your roof is not covered under warranty or if the warranty has expired, you still have options for repairs or replacement. You can:
Work with a professional contractor:
A reliable roofing contractor can assess the damage and offer cost-effective repair solutions.
Consider financing options:
If the cost of roof replacement is too high, many roofing companies offer financing plans to help manage the cost.
Conclusion
Roofing warranties provide essential protection for your roof investment, but it’s important to fully understand the terms and conditions of your warranty. By knowing the differences between manufacturer, contractor, and system warranties, you can make informed decisions when it comes to roof repairs and maintenance. If you need help understanding your warranty or are looking for a reliable roofing contractor, contact 1st Choice Roofing today for a consultation.
FAQs Roofing Warranties
What is typically covered by a roofing warranty?
Manufacturer defects, installation issues, and sometimes damage caused by weather.
Can I transfer my roofing warranty to a new homeowner?
Some warranties are transferable, while others are not. Check with the manufacturer or contractor.
How long do roofing warranties last?
Manufacturer warranties can last 10-50 years, while contractor warranties are typically 1-5 years.
What happens if my roof is damaged and it's still under warranty?
If the damage is covered under the warranty, it will be repaired at no cost. If not, you may need to pay for repairs.
Are roofing warranties valid if the roof is poorly maintained?
No, most warranties require regular maintenance to remain valid.
How can I check if my roofing warranty is still valid?
Contact the manufacturer or roofing contractor for warranty details and expiration dates.
Is it worth getting a roofing warranty?
Yes, roofing warranties provide valuable protection, especially for expensive roof systems.
What do roofing warranties not cover?
Most warranties do not cover wear and tear, improper installation, or extreme weather damage.
How do I register my roofing warranty?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions and register your warranty, typically online or via mail.
Can my roofing warranty be voided if I repair the roof myself?
Yes, DIY repairs may void the warranty, especially if the repairs are not done to the manufacturer’s specifications.
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