Understanding Roof Warranties: A Simple Guide

The warranty covers the things you purchase. Additionally, roof installation comes with a warranty; as a homeowner, you need to know what is and is not covered by the warranty. To prevent issues later on, you must read the agreements before purchasing your roof.

What Is A Roof Warranty?

A roof warranty typically covers materials and workmanship. Materials coverage includes protection against defects in the roofing materials. This can range from shingles to underlayment. Workmanship coverage protects against installation errors by contractors.

Importance Of Understanding Roof Warranties

Understanding your roof warranty has financial and safety implications. It can help you plan for unexpected repairs. Knowing the terms can influence decisions on maintenance and repair.

Being informed can also aid in negotiating better warranty terms. You might secure more coverage or longer durations. This knowledge is powerful when dealing with manufacturers.

Types Of Roof Warranties

Manufacturer’s Warranty

a guarantee from the manufacturer covering flaws in the roofing components.  The typical length of a roof warranty varies. The duration of manufacturer’s warranties varies based on the quality of the material, ranging from 20 to 50 years. 

Contractor’s Workmanship Warranty

The contractor offers a workmanship warranty that addresses problems with installation. Workmanship warranties often have a shorter duration—between two and ten years. The quality of installation, roof upkeep, and environment all have an impact on this time frame.

Prorated Vs. Non-Prorated Warranties

Prorated warranties decrease in value over time. You pay more out-of-pocket as the roof ages. Non-prorated warranties offer full coverage throughout their term.

Checking if a warranty is prorated or non-prorated is crucial. It affects long-term costs significantly. Always ask detailed questions about this aspect.

Factors Affecting Roof Warranty Length

A. Roofing Material

Prorated warranties decrease in value over time. Non-prorated warranties cover the full cost of repairs or replacements for a specified period.

Prorated warranties can lead to higher costs as the roof ages. Non-prorated ones offer more financial security.

The best illustration to compare these two is prorated warranty may cost less but would require you higher expenses in the future. On the other hand, a non-prorated warranty is ideal if you plan to stay longer.

B. Manufacturer

• Roofing material affects warranty terms. Asphalt shingles often have shorter warranties than metal roofs.
• Manufacturers set different durations based on material quality. Asphalt may have 15-30 years, while metal could offer up to 50 years.
• Choosing materials with favorable warranties ensures fewer future expenses. Prioritize materials with longer and more comprehensive coverage.

C. Installation Quality

• Manufacturer reputation matters for warranty claims. Reliable manufacturers honor their commitments consistently.
• Researching manufacturers’ track records helps avoid issues. Check reviews and ask for references before purchasing.
• Manufacturer stability impacts warranty fulfillment. Stable companies are more likely to honor long-term warranties.

D. Environmental Factors

• Quality installation reduces the need for warranty claims. Poor workmanship can void your warranty altogether.
• Hiring certified professionals ensures compliance with warranty terms. Ask about their certification and experience level.
• Questions like “How does your work meet manufacturer standards?” help gauge installer reliability. Certified installers provide peace of mind and protect your investment.

Understanding Roof Warranty Coverage

A. Common Inclusions

1. Material Defects

The roofing materials’ flaws are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Premature degradation, cracking, buckling, and other concerns not brought on by outside influences or incorrect installation fall under this category.

2. Workmanship Errors

The workmanship warranty of the roofing contractor or installer covers issues relating to installation. This includes leaks, wind-blown roofs, and other problems caused by poor installation methods or mistakes made when installing a roof.

B. Common Exclusions

1. Acts Of Nature 

It is common for insurance policies to exclude coverage for damage resulting from extreme weather events, such as tornadoes or hurricanes. However, the manufacturer’s guarantee should repair your shingles at no additional cost to you if they break or become displaced because of aging rather than strong storms.

2. Improper Maintenance

The manufacturer’s guarantee may be voided if your roof is not properly maintained. For instance, the guarantee is unlikely to cover any water damage caused by overflowing or clogged gutters if regular gutter cleaning is neglected. Maintaining the protection provided by the original roofing guarantee requires careful maintenance.

3. Damage From Other Trades

Getting a separate contractor roof warranty is essential since problems arising from substandard installation are not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. 

Tips For Maximizing Roof Warranty Benefits

A. Regular Maintenance

Roof warranties often exclude improper maintenance and natural disasters. Ignoring these exclusions can lead to denied claims. Activities like walking on the roof or installing satellite dishes can void the warranty.

Address areas not covered by the warranty by scheduling regular inspections. Fix minor issues before they become major problems.

B. Proper Installation

Regular maintenance keeps your warranty valid. Clean gutters and remove debris from the roof. Check for damaged shingles after storms. Professional inspections help identify potential issues early. Hire a certified inspector to review your roof annually.

C. Understanding Warranty Terms

Proper installation is crucial for avoiding future claims. Choose a qualified roofing contractor with a good track record. Verify their certifications and ask for references. Document the installation process with photos and receipts. This proof will be useful if you need to make a claim later.

D. Documenting Repairs And Maintenance

Read and understand all warranty documents before signing them. Look for any legal or technical terms that might impact your coverage.

Seek clarification if anything is unclear. Consult a legal professional if needed to ensure a full understanding of your rights and obligations under the warranty. They know better as they are skilled and trained in these matters. 

If you are aware of the fundamentals, types, duration variables, coverage specifics, and strategies you can optimize to your advantage. Knowledge of this information will prepare you for things that may happen in the future.

Now that you’re equipped with this information, take action. Review your current warranty or explore new options. Reach out to us at  Red Stick Roofers today. Your roof’s longevity depends on it.