Understanding Roof Warranties: What Homeowners Should Know

Replacing a roof can cost over $10,000, making a solid warranty essential to protect your investment. Roof warranties offer financial protection against unexpected repair costs and can even boost your home's resale value. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Warranty Types:

• Material Warranties: Cover defects in roofing materials (e.g., shingles) for 20–50 years, but often exclude labor and installation issues.

• Installation Warranties: Offered by contractors to cover problems caused by poor workmanship, lasting 2–10+ years.

• Enhanced Warranties: Provide additional protection for wind damage, algae, and full-system failures when installed by certified contractors.

What to Look For:

• Coverage Length: Check if the warranty is prorated or non-prorated.

• Exclusions: Understand what’s not covered, like weather damage, wear and tear, or unauthorized repairs.

• Transferability: Some warranties can be transferred to new homeowners, increasing resale value.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Warranties Valid:

• Schedule annual inspections and after severe weather.

• Use certified contractors for repairs or modifications.

• Keep detailed records of installation, maintenance, and repairs.

Quick Comparison of Warranty Features:

By understanding these basics, you can choose the right warranty, protect your roof, and avoid costly surprises.

Roof Warranties Explained (Material and Workmanship Warranty)

Common Roof Warranty Types

When you're putting money into a new roof, knowing the different types of warranties available can help you protect your investment. Here's a closer look at the main warranty options.

Material Warranties from Manufacturers

Manufacturer warranties focus on defects like premature wear and manufacturing flaws in shingles and other roofing components. For example, warranties on architectural asphalt shingles often last up to 30 years, though coverage usually becomes prorated after the first 10 years.

"The difference between roofing warranties for materials and warranties from roofing installation companies lies in what they cover and who is responsible for providing the warranty." - Jonathan Ross, Co-owner, Business Director, Master Roofer, SlopePro

It’s important to note that most material warranties don’t cover:

• Labor costs to remove defective materials

• Installation expenses for replacements

• Issues caused by incorrect installation

• Problems involving other roofing components

Installation Warranties

Installation warranties, also called workmanship warranties, are offered by roofing contractors and cover problems caused by poor installation. These warranties can last anywhere from a few years to more than a decade, depending on the contractor. A good workmanship warranty should protect you from:

• Failures in materials due to improper installation

• Mistakes made by workers during installation

• Leaks caused by faulty installation methods

Some contractors may also offer enhanced options for even greater peace of mind.

Additional Coverage Options

For those seeking extra protection, manufacturers often provide enhanced warranty packages that go beyond basic coverage. For instance, GAF offers tiered warranty programs with varying levels of protection:

*When necessary

To qualify for these enhanced warranties, you’ll typically need to:

• Hire certified contractors, like GAF Master Elite Contractors

• Install a complete roofing system from the same manufacturer

• Use specific accessory products as part of the system

Additionally, some manufacturers offer specialized coverage for:

• Wind damage

• Algae resistance

• Full system protection

If you’re considering natural materials like cedar shake or slate, keep in mind that these usually don’t come with manufacturer warranties since they are naturally occurring products. In such cases, the installation warranty provided by your contractor becomes especially critical.

What to Look for in a Roof Warranty

When you're evaluating roof warranty options, paying attention to the details can help you avoid costly surprises down the road. Here's what to keep an eye on.

Coverage Length and Details

Roof warranties can vary widely in both duration and what they cover. Manufacturer warranties for materials often last anywhere from 25 to 50 years, with some even offering a "limited lifetime" warranty. However, it's important to note that the value of this coverage typically decreases over time.

Here’s a quick breakdown of common warranty types:

Make sure to also review what these warranties don’t cover to avoid unexpected issues.

What's Not Covered

Understanding exclusions is just as important as knowing what’s included. Most warranties won’t cover:

• Normal wear and tear

• Damage from extreme weather events (unless explicitly stated)

• Repairs made by unauthorized contractors

• Problems caused by pests

• Damage resulting from poor maintenance

• Secondary damage to your home's interior

A case shared by Elite Roofing underscores this point:

"A pharmaceutical company had a leak that contaminated an expensive compounding ingredient. A typical roofing warranty would not compensate for this type of loss."

Transfer Rights

Transferable warranties can be a valuable selling point if you ever decide to sell your home. Many manufacturers allow a one-time transfer of the warranty to a new owner. For example, Owens Corning requires:

• Transfer paperwork to be submitted within 60 days of the home sale

• Proof of the original purchase and installation date

• Documentation of the new ownership

Keep in mind that some manufacturers charge a transfer fee, and the terms of the warranty might change after the transfer. The coverage value will also reflect the roof's age at the time of transfer.

"When it comes to roofing, a transferable warranty can be one of your home's greatest assets." - Owens Corning Roofing

How to Protect Your Warranty

Keeping your roof warranty intact requires careful attention to maintenance and repair guidelines. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your warranty remains valid.

Required Maintenance

Regular upkeep is essential for maintaining your warranty. Many manufacturers mandate professional inspections at least once a year and after severe weather to catch potential problems early.

Some key maintenance tasks include:

"The single most important thing a building owner can do once a new roof or renovation is in place is to schedule regular roof maintenance. This should include documentation that validates regular maintenance has been performed."

Sticking to these tasks not only keeps your roof in good shape but also ensures you’re meeting warranty requirements.

Getting Repairs

When it comes to repairs, cutting corners can cost you your warranty. Here’s how to handle repairs the right way:

• Hire certified contractors: Always use contractors approved by the manufacturer to avoid voiding your warranty.

• Get approval for modifications: Changes like adding solar panels or satellite dishes should be cleared with a professional beforehand.

• Use approved materials: Ensure all repair materials are compatible with your roof system and meet manufacturer standards.

A great example comes from Greensboro, NC, where a commercial building avoided major storm damage and kept its warranty intact by sticking to a maintenance plan with WxTite.

Proper repairs are just one part of the equation - keeping detailed records is equally important.

Record Keeping

Thorough documentation is crucial for protecting your warranty. Organize your records in a dedicated folder, whether physical or digital, and include the following:

These records not only prove you’ve met maintenance requirements but also streamline the claims process if you ever need to use your warranty.

"Maintaining your roof is crucial, even if you have a warranty. While warranties can provide valuable protection, they often come with specific requirements that you must fulfill to keep the coverage active."

"Certified roofing contractors understand the nuances of both installation and warranty compliance. For example, using the wrong type of fasteners or neglecting to install proper underlayment can void a manufacturer's warranty, even if the roof appears flawless. Homeowners should always verify that the contractor follows manufacturer guidelines to the letter. Simple steps like these save significant time, stress, and money in the long run."

Local Weather and Rules

Weather Protection

Colorado’s unpredictable and harsh weather can significantly reduce the lifespan of a roof. Even with warranties claiming up to 50 years, roofs in the state often last only 15–30 years due to environmental wear and tear.

Here are some key weather challenges and their impact on roofs and warranties:

The high frequency of hail-related insurance claims in 2018 underscores the importance of robust warranty coverage. When reviewing warranties, homeowners should closely examine exclusions and limits, particularly those tied to weather-related damage.

State-specific regulations also address these weather challenges by requiring warranties to meet local needs.

Colorado Laws

Colorado’s Residential Roofing Act (Senate Bill 38) was designed to protect homeowners by ensuring transparency in warranty terms and roofing contracts. These legal requirements are tailored to the state’s unique climate demands, offering critical safeguards.

For contracts exceeding $1,000, additional warranty-related information must be included. Some of the key protections include:

• Rescission Rights: Homeowners can cancel contracts within 72 hours of signing.

• Deposit Returns: Contractors must refund deposits within 10 days of cancellation.

• Clear Documentation: Contracts must provide detailed warranty terms and coverage specifics.

To ensure your warranty meets both your needs and state laws, look for coverage that addresses Colorado’s extreme weather. Regular roof maintenance and keeping all warranty-related documents organized are essential to maintaining coverage under state regulations.

Conclusion

A roof warranty is a vital safeguard for one of your most significant investments. Knowing how to navigate and manage it effectively can save you from expensive out-of-pocket repairs by ensuring you're covered when it matters most.

This guide has covered the essentials - types of warranties, maintenance requirements, and legal considerations - offering a roadmap to protect your roof. Here are three key actions to keep your investment secure:

• Choose the Right Coverage: Go for warranties that address both material defects and installation errors. Look for non-prorated options that provide full protection throughout the warranty period.

• Keep Your Records Organized: Store all installation documents, maintenance logs, and repair records. These will be invaluable if you need to make a warranty claim and show that you've upheld your end of the agreement.

• Stay on Top of Inspections: Regular inspections, done according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, can help you catch small issues before they become big problems that might void your warranty.

"When you're spending that much money to safeguard your home and increase value, it's nice to have some sort of protection for your investment." - Brothers Services

If you live in a place like Colorado, where weather can be unpredictable and extreme, make sure your warranty is suited to those conditions. By following these steps and keeping thorough documentation, you'll protect your roof for years to come and maintain your home's value.

FAQs

Can a roof warranty be transferred when I sell my home, and how do I confirm this?

If you're selling your home and want to know if your roof warranty can transfer to the new owner, start by checking the warranty documents for any transferability terms. Many warranties allow a one-time transfer, but the specific conditions can vary. To be sure, reach out to the roofing manufacturer or contractor to confirm the details and handle the transfer process before closing the sale.

Some warranties come with additional requirements, like notifying the manufacturer, paying a transfer fee, or verifying that the roof is in good condition. Since this process can take a few weeks, it's smart to get started early to avoid any delays.

How can I make sure my roof warranty stays valid?

To ensure your roof warranty stays intact, here’s what you need to do:

• Follow the maintenance schedule outlined by the manufacturer. This typically involves routine inspections and cleaning to avoid debris buildup and potential damage.

• Keep thorough records of all maintenance and repairs. Having proper documentation is crucial if you ever need to make a warranty claim.

• Adhere to warranty guidelines, such as using approved materials and hiring licensed contractors for any repairs. Skipping these steps could void your warranty.

Staying on top of these tasks helps protect your roof and ensures your warranty remains valid for its entire term.

Can certain weather conditions void my roof warranty, and how can I protect my investment?

Certain weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, hailstorms, and strong winds can void your roof warranty. These are often labeled as "acts of God" and are usually not covered under standard warranty terms.

To help protect your roof and your investment, make sure the installation follows the manufacturer's guidelines, maintain proper ventilation, and schedule regular inspections to catch any issues early. You could also consider upgraded warranties that offer extra protection against severe weather. These proactive measures can go a long way in keeping your roof in good shape and lasting longer.

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