Some roofing warranties can be unnecessarily complex. But, nevertheless, they’re essential for protecting one of your most expensive investments. Since these documents can, sometimes, be difficult to understand, familiarizing yourself with the different warranty types and what they cover can save you from several unexpected expenses and headaches.
Specific material defects, workmanship issues, and installment conditions can all impact the duration and validity of your warranty. Therefore, understanding how roofing warranties work lets you make smarter decisions regarding your next project. Here, we’ll cover the ins and outs of the typical roofing warranty so that you know what to expect should any problems arise with your new roof.
What Are the Different Types of Warranties?
Not all roofing warranties are the same. They come in various forms, and each covers a different aspect of your roof’s installment and materials. A manufacturer’s warranty typically handles defects in the roofing materials themselves. If your shingles deteriorate prematurely or fail under normal conditions, this warranty type lets you replace them at no cost.
Workmanship warranties, on the other hand, come from your roofing contractor. These warranties cover installation-related issues. They can include anything from improper sealing or flashing to mistakes that result in moisture issues and other problems.
Lastly, an extended manufacturer’s warranty offers more coverage and longer protection. This warranty frequently includes coverage for both labor costs for repairs. It can be particularly valuable if you plan to stay in your home for an extended time.
Typical Warranty Durations
Like warranty coverage, the duration of a roofing warranty will vary depending on the type and brand you select. Standard manufacturer warranties for your roof’s materials typically start at 20 years and go all the way up to 50 years for extended warranties. Architectural shingles and other premium roofing systems can potentially include a lifetime warranty.
On the other hand, workmanship warranties from the roofing contractor typically span between one and 10 years, with potential options for extended coverage. The length of these warranties is often influenced by the type of roofing system, materials used, and environmental conditions for the project. Roofs installed under inclement weather or urgent circumstances may, for example, potentially impact the effective duration of the warranty.
Limitations and Exclusions
All roofing warranties come with various limitations and exclusions. These items tell you what is and isn’t covered. Common exclusions often include damage caused by natural disasters, improper installation by negligent or non-certified contractors, and issues stemming from deferred maintenance.
Wear and tear due to aging won’t typically be covered, either. We, therefore, recommend you carefully read the fine print before adopting a warranty. While some warranties may only cover the cost of materials, they may not address the labor required for repairs. Others might stipulate specific maintenance routines to remain valid.
It’s also worth mentioning that some exclusions could void your warranty entirely. These items include the use of unapproved sealants or accessories. Going over these limitations with a fine-toothed comb will help you avoid unexpected costs later.
Roofing Warranty Transfers
The ability to transfer a roofing warranty can be a significant selling point when it comes time to sell your home. The terms of the transfer will vary, however. What’s more, each warranty has specific conditions you’ll need to meet before making the transfer.
Manufacturer’s warranties usually permit transfers to new homeowners within a specified period. But this time frame is often limited to within the first few years of the roof’s installation. In many cases, you’ll probably need to notify the manufacturer of the transfer and complete any required paperwork. You may also have to pay a nominal fee.
A transferable roofing warranty can increase your home’s resale value. Prospective buyers often look for homes with long-lasting warranties. These extended contracts provide an extra sense of security because they reduce the likelihood of unexpected repair costs. A 30-year transferable manufacturer’s warranty can go a long way in instilling interest in prospective buyers.
Some workmanship warranties can also be transferable. However, they’re subject to more limitations than manufacturer’s warranties. Always check with your contractor to verify the warranty’s transferability. If you can leverage it during the selling process, this can help make your home more marketable.
How to Stay Within Your Warranty
Scheduling regular inspections and staying on top of your roof’s upkeep is the best way to maintain its warranty. Many manufacturers and contractors stipulate periodic inspections as a condition of the warranty agreement. Ideally, you should have your roof checked at least once a year. Likewise, always have it assessed by a professional after a major storm, especially if you suspect damage.
Regular inspections can identify and repair things like loose shingles or minor leaks before they become deferred maintenance and potentially void your warranty. We also recommend you keep your gutters clean, trim overhanging branches, and ensure adequate ventilation in your attic. All these measures combined will help preserve your roof.
Avoiding unapproved sealants or unauthorized modifications to your roof also helps keep you in warranty. If you discover repairs are needed, remember to hire a certified professional who understands your specific warranty requirements.
Regularly documenting your inspections and maintenance is also important. The documentation will serve as proof that you’ve honored the warranty conditions if something goes wrong. This will make the process much easier if you need to file a claim.
Filing a Warranty Claim
Filing a roofing warranty claim isn’t overly complicated, especially if you’ve kept up with your maintenance and properly documented it. The first thing you’ll need to do is record the problem in detail. Take clear photos and videos of the affected areas of your roof, noting both the date and extent of the damage.
Next, review your warranty terms. This information will tell you what’s covered. Then, gather all the related documentation, including receipts and previous inspection reports, before contacting the warranty provider to report the issue.
Explain the problem thoroughly over the phone and offer to supply the visual evidence you collected to substantiate the claim. At some point soon after the call, you should expect a representative from the manufacturer to come out and inspect your roof.
Be prepared to answer questions and provide additional context. After the assessment, the provider will determine if the issue falls under warranty coverage. Once approved, they will inform you of the next steps.
Evaluating Roofing Warranty Providers
So, how do you choose a roofing warranty provider? We suggest sticking to recognizable names and trying to find the most favorable plan among them. Companies like GAF, CertainTeed, and Owens Corning all offer comprehensive warranties and extended coverage that can span several decades.
GAF offers its Golden Pledge Warranty, which includes material defects and workmanship errors. They’re known for delivering responsive customer service. Their class-leading warranties include high wind coverage, algae resistance, and options to transfer warranties to new homeowners.
The other similarly reputable companies also partner with a vast network of certified contractors trained on their specific installation guidelines. In general, top roofing warranty providers will offer easy-to-understand coverage options and a simple claims filing process.
Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor
Before you commit to a roofing contractor, don’t forget to ask important questions like, “What does the warranty cover?” and “How long will it last?” Look over the agreement carefully and inquire about any maintenance requirements and potential exclusions. Assess the warranty’s quality by reviewing the extent of the coverage, its transferability, and the claims process. Finally, address anything unclear about the warranty with the perspective roofing company or manufacturer.
Need help with your next roofing project? Our team at Fraser Roofing, LLC provides emergency roof installations and gutter services in addition to comprehensive roof repairs in Atlanta, GA.
Contact us at Fraser Roofing, LLC now to learn more about our exclusive warranty offers!
