Understanding Roof Warranties: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Investing in a new roof is a significant expense, making a reliable warranty an essential part of the process. Roof warranties provide peace of mind and financial protection, but understanding their terms and coverage is crucial. In this blog, Legacy Roofing and General Contracting breaks down the different types of roof warranties and explains how to get the most out of them.

1. Types of Roof Warranties

Roof warranties generally fall into three main categories, each offering different levels of coverage.

The Three Types:

• Manufacturer’s Warranty: Covers defects in roofing materials.
• Workmanship Warranty: Protects against installation errors.
• Extended Warranty: Offers additional coverage beyond the standard terms.

Tip: Review the terms of each warranty to understand their specific coverage and limitations.

2. What’s Covered by a Manufacturer’s Warranty?

Manufacturer’s warranties protect you from material defects but often exclude issues caused by installation or maintenance.

Common Inclusions:

• Shingle defects like curling or cracking.
• Premature granule loss.
• Structural flaws in materials.

Tip: Retain documentation of your warranty and proof of purchase for easy claims.

3. The Importance of Workmanship Warranties

Even high-quality materials can fail if improperly installed, making a workmanship warranty essential.

What It Covers:

• Poorly aligned shingles or flashing.
• Improper sealing around vents and chimneys.
• Structural issues caused by installation errors.

Tip: Choose a contractor with a solid reputation for honoring workmanship warranties.

4. Coverage Periods: How Long Do Warranties Last?

Warranties vary in duration, from a few years to a lifetime, depending on the type and manufacturer.

Typical Durations:

• Manufacturer’s Warranties: 20-50 years or more.
• Workmanship Warranties: 1-10 years, depending on the contractor.
• Extended Warranties: Add additional years to the manufacturer’s coverage.

Tip: Longer warranties often come with higher initial costs but offer better value over time.

5. What’s Not Covered by Roof Warranties?

Warranties often exclude specific issues, making it essential to know the limitations.

Common Exclusions:

• Damage from severe weather (e.g., hail or high winds).
• Poor maintenance or neglect.
• Normal wear and tear over time.

Tip: Keep up with regular maintenance to avoid voiding your warranty.

6. How to Keep Your Warranty Valid

Failing to meet the terms of your warranty can result in loss of coverage.

Steps to Stay Compliant:

• Schedule regular inspections and maintenance.
• Document all repairs and maintenance activities.
• Use certified contractors for repairs or replacements.

Tip: Read the fine print of your warranty to understand your responsibilities.

7. Transferring Warranties to New Homeowners

Some warranties are transferable, making them a valuable selling point if you decide to sell your home.

Transferability Details:

• Check if the warranty allows transfers to new owners.
• Some warranties only transfer once during the coverage period.
• Notify the manufacturer or contractor of the transfer within the specified time frame.

Tip: Highlight your roof’s warranty as a selling feature in your property listing.

8. Extended Warranties: Are They Worth It?

Extended warranties provide additional peace of mind but come at an extra cost.

When to Consider an Extended Warranty:

• If you live in an area prone to extreme weather.
• When your roof’s lifespan is critical to your long-term plans.
• For high-value or complex roofing systems.

Tip: Weigh the cost of an extended warranty against the likelihood of needing it.

9. How to File a Warranty Claim

If you encounter an issue covered by your warranty, filing a claim promptly is crucial.

Steps to File a Claim:

1. Contact the warranty provider (manufacturer or contractor).
2. Provide proof of purchase, warranty documentation, and photos of the issue.
3. Schedule an inspection with the provider to verify the claim.

Tip: Keep all relevant documentation organized for quick access when needed.

10. Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor

Selecting a contractor who stands behind their work is vital for ensuring warranty coverage.

What to Look For:

• Positive reviews and a solid reputation.
• Transparency about warranty terms and conditions.
• Certification from reputable manufacturers.

Tip: Ask your contractor about their process for honoring warranties before starting your project.

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