A roof is one of the most significant investments you’ll make for your home, and protecting that investment with a warranty is essential. Roof warranties offer homeowners peace of mind, but they can vary significantly in terms of coverage, duration, and conditions. In this blog, we’ll break down the types of roof warranties, what they typically cover, and tips for ensuring your roof remains protected.
Types of Roof Warranties
- Manufacturer’s Warranty
- Covers defects in roofing materials caused during manufacturing.
- Typically ranges from 20 to 50 years, depending on the product.
- May not cover installation issues.
- Workmanship Warranty
- Provided by the roofing contractor to cover installation errors.
- Duration varies by contractor, often ranging from 5 to 10 years.
- Protects against problems caused by poor installation techniques.
- Extended Warranty
- Offered by manufacturers for additional coverage, often requiring certified contractors for installation.
- Extends the standard material warranty to include labor or additional years of coverage.
- System Warranty
- Covers both materials and labor, providing comprehensive protection for the entire roofing system.
- Often includes specific conditions, such as routine maintenance.
What Roof Warranties Typically Cover
- Material Defects
- Protection against issues like premature granule loss, curling, or cracking of shingles.
- Installation Errors
- Covers problems caused by improper installation, such as leaks or uneven shingles.
- Wind and Hail Resistance
- Some warranties include coverage for specific wind speeds or hail sizes. Always check the terms for limitations.
- Transferability
- Certain warranties can be transferred to a new homeowner, increasing the resale value of your home.
What Roof Warranties May Not Cover
- Improper Maintenance
- Neglecting routine maintenance, such as clearing debris or inspecting for damage, can void your warranty.
- Unapproved Repairs
- Using unlicensed contractors or non-approved materials for repairs may invalidate your warranty.
- Natural Disasters
- Damage from severe storms, floods, or earthquakes is often excluded unless specified.
- Aging and Normal Wear
- Warranties typically don’t cover normal aging or cosmetic issues that don’t affect functionality.
How to Ensure Your Warranty Remains Valid
- Hire Certified Contractors
- Use licensed and certified professionals for installation and repairs. Many warranties require this to remain valid.
- Schedule Regular Inspections
- Have your roof inspected annually and after severe weather to address minor issues before they worsen.
- Perform Routine Maintenance
- Clean gutters, remove debris, and ensure proper ventilation to maintain your roof’s condition.
- Keep Documentation
- Save all warranty paperwork, inspection reports, and proof of repairs. This is essential for claims or warranty transfers.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
- Adhere to the manufacturer’s care and maintenance instructions to avoid voiding the warranty.
How to File a Warranty Claim
If you notice an issue covered under your warranty, take these steps to file a claim:
- Document the Damage
- Take photos and note the date and cause of the damage, if known.
- Contact Your Contractor or Manufacturer
- Notify them immediately and provide proof of the issue, along with your warranty documentation.
- Schedule an Inspection
- The contractor or manufacturer will inspect the damage to determine whether it’s covered.
- Follow the Claims Process
- Submit all required paperwork, including receipts, inspection reports, and photos, to ensure a smooth claim process.
Why Roof Warranties Are Important
Roof warranties offer more than just financial protection; they ensure that your investment is safeguarded against unexpected issues. A good warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered in case of defects, installation errors, or certain weather conditions.
