What Your Roofing Contractor Should Offer When it comes to investing in a new roof, warranties are an essential part of the process that shouldn't be overlooked. A roof warranty provides peace of mind by protecting you from unexpected costs in the event of material failures or installation issues. However not all warranties are created equal, and understanding what your roofing contractor should offer is key to making an informed decision. In this post, we'll break down the types of warranties available, what to look for, and what questions to ask your contractor. Types of Roofing Warranties There are generally two main types of roofing warranties: manufacturer warranties and contractor (or workmanship) warranties. Each covers different aspects of your roof, and both are important to consider. Manufacturer Warranties Manufacturer warranties cover defects in roofing materials themselves. For example, if your shingles start to break down prematurely, a manufacturer warranty can help cover the costs of replacement materials. Manufacturer warranties can vary widely, but there are a few standard types: ● ● ● Basic Manufacturer Warranty: This covers the roofing materials for a set period, typically between 20 and 50 years, depending on the material. However, coverage usually decreases over time due to prorating, meaning the longer you've had the roof, the less coverage you might receive. Extended Manufacturer Warranty: Some manufacturers offer extended warranties for an additional cost. These are generally non-prorated for the first several years, meaning you’ll receive full coverage within that timeframe, potentially covering labor costs too. Lifetime Warranty: A "lifetime" warranty might sound enticing, but in roofing terms, “lifetime” often refers to 30–50 years and is subject to the manufacturer’s guidelines and prorating structure. Be sure to clarify what the manufacturer means by "lifetime." Workmanship (Contractor) Warranties A workmanship warranty, provided by your contractor, covers issues resulting from improper installation. Even the highest-quality roofing materials can fail if not installed correctly, so this warranty is critical. Typical workmanship warranties last between 1 and 10 years, depending on the contractor and project specifics. Some top-tier contractors may offer warranties that extend beyond this range. Key Components of a Roofing Warranty When reviewing a roofing warranty, there are several aspects to consider to ensure you're getting the protection you need: ● ● ● Coverage Period: Both material and workmanship warranties vary in duration. Always ask your contractor about the length of coverage for each warranty, and be clear about how coverage changes over time. Transferability: If you plan to sell your home, a transferable warranty can be a valuable asset for potential buyers. Some warranties allow one-time transfers to new homeowners, which can make your property more appealing. Prorating: Some warranties decrease coverage as the roof ages. Be sure to understand when prorating begins and how it affects the compensation you might receive for repairs or replacements. ● ● Exclusions and Limitations: Read the fine print to understand what is and isn’t covered. For example, many warranties don’t cover damage from extreme weather events, like hurricanes or hailstorms, or issues resulting from improper maintenance. What Voids the Warranty: Certain actions, such as installing new equipment on the roof without proper precautions, can void a warranty. Be sure to ask your contractor what situations could cause the warranty to be invalidated. Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor About Warranties Before signing a roofing contract, ask your contractor the following questions to make sure you fully understand the warranty coverage: ● ● ● ● ● ● What types of warranties do you offer? This question will help clarify the scope of coverage, whether it’s a manufacturer warranty, a workmanship warranty, or both. How long is the workmanship warranty? Longer workmanship warranties often indicate a contractor’s confidence in their work, but make sure the duration is realistic based on your roof type and climate. Is the warranty prorated? Prorating affects how much you can claim as the roof ages. Understanding this will give you a clearer picture of the coverage you can expect over time. Can the warranty be transferred if I sell my house? Knowing whether the warranty is transferable and what steps you need to take to transfer it can be an advantage for future home value. What maintenance is required to keep the warranty valid? Many warranties require routine maintenance to remain in effect. Ask your contractor what maintenance schedule is needed and if they offer maintenance services as part of the package. What can void the warranty? Understanding what actions could void your warranty—such as unauthorized roof modifications or inadequate ventilation—will help you avoid pitfalls that might cost you in the long run. Tips for Ensuring Your Warranty Stays Valid To protect your warranty, follow these best practices: ● ● ● ● Keep Records: Save all documents related to your roofing project, including contracts, warranties, and maintenance records. These documents can help support any warranty claims if issues arise. Schedule Routine Inspections: Many warranties require periodic roof inspections to remain valid. Regular maintenance and inspection can help catch potential issues before they become major problems. Follow Maintenance Guidelines: Follow any specific care and maintenance guidelines provided by the contractor or manufacturer. Neglecting maintenance can often void a warranty, especially if it leads to damage that could have been prevented. Communicate Before Adding Roof Installations: If you plan to add solar panels, skylights, or other installations, check with your contractor first. Unauthorized modifications can void your warranty, so it’s essential to understand the guidelines and limitations before making changes. Why Quality Roofing Contractors Matter Selecting a roofing contractor who stands behind their workmanship is crucial. Reputable contractors offer comprehensive workmanship warranties, are transparent about coverage details, and are willing to answer all your questions. They also have a reputation for honoring warranties, which can be as important as the warranty itself. Quality contractors are more likely to help you navigate warranty claims, making the process smoother if issues ever arise. A roofing warranty provides vital protection, but it's essential to understand what you’re getting. Familiarize yourself with the types of warranties, coverage limits, and maintenance requirements to ensure you have the coverage you need. And remember, choosing a reputable contractor with a solid workmanship warranty is just as important as selecting quality materials. By understanding the warranty terms and asking the right questions, you can make a roofing investment that’s protected and offers peace of mind for years to come.
