When you invest in a new roof, you want peace of mind that it will stand the test of time. That’s where a roof warranty comes in, offering significant confidence in what you’re purchasing. But with so many terms and conditions, it can be confusing to know what your warranty covers and how to make the most of it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of basic roof warranties, including what to expect and how to protect your investment.
What Is A Roof Warranty?
A roof warranty is a written agreement that outlines the type of coverage you receive if your roof encounters problems. It is a guarantee from the manufacturer or installer that they stand by their work or products and expect it to last for a certain period.
Types Of Warranties
While there are multiple warranties available for homes, there are three significant types available:
Manufacturer Warranty
A manufacturer warranty focuses on the roofing materials and protects you from having to repurchase roofing materials if the ones you bought, such as shingles, are defective or fail to meet performance expectations. For example, if a shingle warranty promises 20 years of durability, but the shingles fail prematurely because of something that happened during manufacturing, the manufacturer can replace them. These warranties often have a long duration but may not cover problems with issues related to installation.
Workmanship Warranty
Often provided by the contractors who install and work on your roof, the workmanship warranty usually lasts from anywhere around 1 to 10 years and covers issues and damage that might occur during the roof installation process. A proper workmanship warranty ensures you’re protected if problems arise due to roofing materials and products being installed incorrectly.
Extended Warranty
As the name suggests, an extended warranty provides extra protection to your roof by going beyond the standard manufacturer or workmanship warranties. It may cover both materials and labor for an extended period, offering comprehensive protection. If you are investing your money in a long-lasting roofing solution, an extended roof replacement warranty can provide better peace of mind compared to the other options.
Why Do Roof Warranties Matter?
When you invest in a roof, you want it to last for years without needing to pay unexpected costs, and that’s where roof warranties come in. They provide protection and peace of mind and ensure you get the value you deserve. Let’s learn a bit more about why they are so important.
Protect Against Defects
Sometimes, even the best roofing materials can have defects when being created. And if that happens to your roof, a roof warranty will ensure the materials are easily replaced, so you won’t have to bear the replacement costs alone. This feature also protects the long-term performance of your roof.
Provides Confidence In The Installation
Improper installation is one of the common causes of roofing issues. But if you have a workmanship warranty, it will ensure that your contractor stands by their work. If problems occur due to installation errors in the future, the warranty will cover all your expenses related to your roof replacement.
Long-Term Savings
Without a warranty, roof repairs or replacements can be really expensive. A warranty helps you avoid these expenses, making your initial investment worthwhile. It’s a financial safety net that protects you against large, unplanned repair bills.
Increased Home Value
Having a typical roof warranty in place can increase your home’s resale value. Potential buyers feel more confident purchasing a home with a well-maintained roof and a valid warranty in case issues arise.
Peace of Mind
Roof warranties provide homeowners peace of mind by saving them from spending extra cash on their roofs during any issues. Whether you’re dealing with defective shingles or minor repairs, the warranty on the roof ensures you won’t face these challenges alone.
What Does A Typical Roof Warranty Include?
A typical warranty outlines what is covered in case of roofing issues. While the specifics may vary by manufacturer or contractor, understanding the common elements included in these warranties helps you make the most of your investment.
Coverage for Defective Materials
One of the key components of a typical roof warranty is protection against defects in the material. If any of your roofing materials (shingles, tiles, or metal panels) fail prematurely, the manufacturer’s warranty ensures they are replaced or repaired. This guarantees the quality and durability of the materials used on your roof.
Workmanship Errors
A warranty on roof workmanship protects you if the roof isn’t installed correctly. Issues such as leaks, uneven shingles, or improper sealing often fall under this coverage. A good workmanship warranty gives you confidence that the installation meets industry standards.
Coverage Duration
The duration of a warranty often tends to vary among different types. Most manufacturer warranties last between 20 to 50 years, depending on the materials. A workmanship warranty can only last for a period of 1 to 10 years, depending on the policies of the roofing company. It is essential to understand all the terms and conditions of a warranty before signing any contracts.
Exclusions to Note
While warranties offer valuable protection and safety guidelines for your roof, they also include certain scenarios that you need to understand thoroughly. For example, some warranties might not include coverage for damage caused by certain weather conditions or poor maintenance. In these situations, it is always advisable to review the terms of your agreement to understand the responsibilities of a homeowner.
What Are Some Limitations To Roof Warranties?
While roof warranties provide essential protection for your home, they also possess some limitations that a homeowner should be aware of.
Poor Maintenance
A roof replacement warranty typically requires homeowners to maintain their roofs on a regular basis. However, if you keep neglecting tasks like cleaning your gutters, removing debris, or inspecting for damage, your warranty might not cover the forms of roofing damage that arise from those things.
Unauthorized Repairs
If someone other than the authorized contractor performs repairs on your roof, the warranty may become void. Always ensure that certified professionals who understand the terms of your roof installation warranty do the repairs.
Natural Disasters
Another thing that most homeowners tend to avoid is that natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornados are usually not covered under a typical roof warranty. These situations often require additional insurance coverage. Be sure to read your warranty carefully to understand the exclusions.
Tips to Avoid Limitations
To avoid these limitations, thoroughly follow the maintenance guidelines provided by your contractor or manufacturer. Keep your roof in excellent condition by scheduling regular inspections and using authorized professionals for any repairs.
What Tips Can Help Maximize Your Warranty?
Having a roof warranty is a valuable way to protect your roof from any unexpected damage while protecting the investment you made. If you find yourself filing a claim under your warranty, it is important to get the maximum coverage so that you won’t have to handle any extra expenses by yourself.
Here, is a list of the best possible ways to maximize your claim during a roof repair:
Choose Quality Materials
Make sure the roofing contractors are using high-quality roofing materials with a reliable warranty during a roof repair/replacement. Premium shingles or roofing materials are less likely to fail early due to their long-lasting durability and capacity to withstand extreme weather conditions. A good material warranty will give you peace of mind that your roof can withstand the elements for years.
Hire a Trusted Contractor
Hiring professional roofing contractors with experience and expertise plays a critical role in maintaining your warranty on roof performance. Improper installation can lead to problems that may void your warranty.
Keep Documentation
A homeowner must save all the warranty paperwork, receipts, and installation records for any future claims. These documents are important features of a warranty claim as they have to be reviewed if you file a claim. Without the proper documentation, you may face delays or denials when trying to resolve issues.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Routine roof inspections are crucial for catching potential problems early. Issues like loose shingles or small leaks, if left unaddressed, can create significant concerns for your home that may not be covered by your typical warranty. Regular maintenance ensures your roof stays in good condition and complies with the warranty terms.
How Prestige Roofing LLC Can Help
At Prestige Roofing LLC, we understand the importance of protecting your home. Our team offers top-notch installation services backed by reliable warranties. Whether you want to learn more about our warranty options or require assistance with a roof replacement, we’re here to help. If you have any questions, contact us at (920) 791-0414 for more information.