Investing in a new roof is a significant financial investment, and roofing warranties can protect your roof from potential issues. However, it’s crucial to consider the warranty’s terms and coverage, as it can significantly impact the long-term performance of your roof and its potential return on investment. Most homeowners are not sure of the details of their warranties. This could put them in a potentially awkward and stressful situation in the case of an issue. They might even pay for a solution without realizing it is covered by the warranty.
This blog will get you ahead of the game by covering everything you need to know about roof warranty length, including what voids a roof warranty, how to find your roof warranty, and what a typical roof warranty covers.
What’s the Purpose of a Roof Warranty?
Having a new roof installed on your home costs a substantial amount of time and money. A roof warranty will cover your investment by protecting you against defects and repairs that the roofing contractor is responsible for. It helps protect and preserve the value of your home and also gives you peace of mind knowing that weather damage is covered.
Types of Roof Warranties
Manufacturer’s Warranty
Manufacturer warranties provide partial protection for roof installation or replacement projects, ensuring materials are protected against defects or failures for their typical lifespan. The duration depends on the roofing materials used and the home’s location. High-end materials may last longer, while lower-cost materials may last less. These warranties do not cover roof failure due to improper installation, severe weather damage, or insufficient maintenance.
Workmanship Warranty
Roofers offer workmanship warranties, providing more protection than standard manufacturer’s warranties. They vary depending on the type and issuing company. It’s essential to ask for a clear warranty in your contract, focusing on craftsmanship and installation. Limited guarantees may be offered, and warranties can be void if hired or maintained later.
What Does a Roof Warranty Cover?
- Materials and Defects
- Installation Issues
- Exceptions and Limitations
- Coverage Limits
Prorated vs. Non-Prorated Warranties
The benefits offered to roofs protected by a prorated warranty decrease over time, and the homeowner may only be covered for a tiny portion of the roof’s replacement value. Non-prorated warranties offer complete coverage throughout the entire length of the warranty.
Roof Warranty Lengths Explained
Typical Lengths
There are a variety of roof warranty lengths to choose from. The most common spans of coverage include:
- 10 years
- 20 years
- 30 years
- Lifetime of the roof
Factors that affect warranty length include materials, manufacturer, and installation quality.
Extended Warranties
Manufacturers offer extended warranty coverage on new roofs installed by certified contractors. These warranties provide coverage for all components, defective materials, and workmanship errors, ensuring long-term value and peace of mind for homeowners.
What Voids a Roof Warranty?
Every warranty will have unique details, so be sure to look over yours carefully before signing a contract. Make sure that you, or your roofing contractor, did not do anything to void the warranty before you file a claim. Common causes that may void a roof warranty include:
- Improper installation
- Poor maintenance
- Unauthorized repairs
- Using non-approved materials or accessories
Preventive Measures
Follow these tips to protect your warranty coverage.
Perform regular roof inspections. This will identify minor issues and prevent major repairs.
Only work with the original contractor. Contracts often void the contractor’s warranty when another company is hired.
Register your warranty with the manufacturer. Contractors must be certified through the shingle manufacturer and authorized to provide the warranty, with higher certifications increasing the likelihood of protection and coverage retention.
Make sure you read the fine print. Your contractor must be certified by the shingle manufacturer and authorized to provide the specified warranty.
How Do I Find My Roof Warranty?
If you’re unsure about the details of your roof warranty and cannot find them, you may be able to track them down.
- Check your original paperwork and receipts.
- Contact the roofing contractor or manufacturer.
- Look for warranty information on the manufacturer’s website.
Record Keeping Tips
It’s important to keep your new roof and warranty documentation somewhere safe and accessible. You never know when something unexpected may happen, and you need to be able to reference your warranty coverage.
Final Thoughts
Since you have a new roof, it is important to understand your roof warranty length and coverage. Homeowners should review their roof warranties and confirm that their roof is adequately protected against contractor-related damage and weather damage.
ECC Roofing & Siding is an industry leader in roof repair and replacement. Our helpful and friendly team of roofing experts is more than happy to debunk myths and educate you about any questions you may have about roofing or your roof warranties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I lose my roof warranty?
If you lose the documentation for your roof warranty, you can contact the roofing contractor or manufacturer, or look for warranty information on the manufacturer’s website.
Can I transfer my roof warranty if I sell my house?
Your roof warranty may be transferred to a new homeowner once, but you must have an enhanced warranty that qualifies it to be allowed.
How often should I inspect my roof to maintain the warranty?
A typical roof warranty requires you to have your roof inspected every two years, but make sure you know what your specific time frame is for your warranty.