What is Typically Covered Under Roofing Warranties?

Roofing Warranties Explained: What’s Covered and What’s Not

Getting a new roof is a big investment, and like any major purchase, you want to make sure it’s protected. This is where roofing warranties come into play. But with all the different types, terms, and fine print, it can be hard to figure out what’s actually covered. Today, we’re going to break down the basics of roofing warranties, what they cover, what they don’t, and what you should look for when choosing one.

Understanding Roofing Warranties: The Basics

First, let’s talk about the two main types of roofing warranties you’re likely to encounter: manufacturer warranties and workmanship warranties. These are two separate things, and both are important.

• Manufacturer Warranty: This warranty covers the roofing materials themselves, protecting you if the materials are defective. So, if you start seeing issues with your shingles, like curling, cracking, or granule loss that shouldn’t be happening, the manufacturer warranty can help.
• Workmanship Warranty: This warranty covers the installation work done by the contractor. Even the best materials won’t last if they’re not installed correctly. A workmanship warranty helps you rest easy knowing your contractor stands behind the quality of their work.

Some roofing companies offer a combined warranty, which covers both the materials and the installation. But no matter what, make sure you know exactly what type of warranty you’re dealing with.

What’s Usually Covered?

So, what can you expect a roof warranty to cover? Here’s a quick rundown of what’s commonly included:

• Materials: Most manufacturer warranties cover defects in materials. This could mean replacement or repair if shingles start showing abnormal wear or if there’s an issue with the underlayment or other materials.
• Installation Errors: If you have a workmanship warranty, installation issues should be covered. This could include things like improper sealing, misaligned shingles, or poor flashing installation that causes leaks.
• Coverage Duration: Manufacturer warranties for roofing materials can last anywhere from 10 years to a lifetime. Workmanship warranties tend to be shorter, often between 1 and 10 years, depending on the contractor.

It’s also common to see limited transferable warranties, meaning if you sell your home, the warranty may transfer to the new owner (though sometimes with reduced coverage).

What’s NOT Covered?

While roofing warranties offer important protection, there are certain things they usually don’t cover. Knowing these exclusions can help you avoid surprises down the road.

• Weather-Related Damage: Extreme weather events like hailstorms, hurricanes, or heavy snow are usually not covered. Homeowners insurance is designed to cover this type of damage, so be sure to have the right coverage there.
• Regular Wear and Tear: Over time, all roofs wear down. Shingles may fade, lose some granules, or get a little less flexible. This natural aging process is typically not covered by the warranty.
• Poor Maintenance: Neglecting regular roof maintenance, like cleaning gutters or checking for damage, can void a warranty. If there’s evidence of poor upkeep, the manufacturer or contractor may not honor the warranty.
• Improper Ventilation: A roof that isn’t properly ventilated can develop problems like heat buildup and moisture issues. Many warranties require adequate ventilation for coverage to stay valid.
• Modifications or Improper Repairs: If you or an unqualified contractor make changes to the roof or repair it incorrectly, the warranty could be voided.

Choosing the Right Roofing Warranty

When it comes to choosing a warranty, it’s all about understanding what you’re getting. Don’t be afraid to ask your contractor to walk you through the details. Some questions to consider:

• How long is the warranty period?
• What specific materials and parts are covered?
• Is labor included in the warranty?
• Are there maintenance requirements to keep the warranty valid?
• Can the warranty transfer to a new owner if you sell your home?

Having clear answers to these questions will help you pick a warranty that provides the right level of protection for your roof and gives you peace of mind.

Ready to Talk Roofing Warranties?

At Old World Roofing, we know how important it is for homeowners to understand their roof warranty options. We offer quality workmanship and stand behind every roof we install. If you’re in the market for a new roof or have questions about what’s covered under our warranties, we’re here to help. Contact Old World Roofing today to learn more and protect your investment with confidence!