What to Look for in a Roofing Warranty

Understanding Roofing Warranties

A roofing warranty is an essential safeguard for homeowners investing in a new roof. It provides protection against unexpected defects, poor workmanship, and premature failure. Choosing the right warranty ensures long-term durability, financial security, and peace of mind. Not all warranties offer the same level of coverage, making it crucial to understand their terms, conditions, and limitations before making a decision.

Manufacturer vs. Contractor Warranties

Roofing warranties generally fall into two categories: manufacturer warranties and contractor warranties.

Manufacturer Warranties

These warranties cover defects in roofing materials. Leading manufacturers like GAF, Owens Corning, and CertainTeed offer warranties that range from 10 years to a lifetime, depending on the product and coverage level.

Key Considerations:

Coverage duration (e.g., 10, 25, or 50 years)
Protection against defects and premature wear
Conditions that may void coverage (e.g., improper installation)

Contractor Workmanship Warranties

These warranties cover errors related to installation. Even high-quality materials can fail prematurely if installed incorrectly, making this warranty crucial. A reputable contractor will stand behind their work with a strong warranty.

Key Considerations:

Coverage for leaks caused by improper installation
Warranty duration (typically 1 to 10 years)
Transferability when selling a home

Coverage and Limitations

Warranties vary significantly in their coverage and exclusions. Some warranties only cover material defects, while others include labor, repairs, and replacement costs.

What to Look For in Coverage

Materials: Protection against premature deterioration, cracking, or manufacturing defects
Labor Costs: Some warranties cover the cost of installation errors, while others do not
Tear-Off and Disposal: If a defective roof needs replacement, confirm whether the warranty covers old material removal and disposal
Weather-Related Damage: Some extended warranties cover extreme weather conditions like wind, hail, or heavy snowfall

Common Exclusions

Improper installation by an unlicensed contractor
Lack of routine maintenance and inspections
Unauthorized modifications or additions to the roof
Natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods

Maintenance Requirements

Many warranties require homeowners to perform routine maintenance to remain valid. Failure to meet these conditions can void coverage, leaving the homeowner responsible for repairs or replacements.

Best Practices for Maintaining Warranty Validity

Schedule annual roof inspections by a certified contractor
Keep records of all maintenance and repairs
Address minor issues immediately to prevent larger problems
Follow manufacturer-recommended care instructions

Transferability of Roofing Warranties

A transferable roofing warranty can increase a home’s resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to invest in a property with a roof that remains under warranty, ensuring continued protection after the sale.

Types of Transferable Warranties

Fully Transferable: Coverage continues under the same terms for the new homeowner
Limited Transferability: Some warranties allow only one transfer, while others require a transfer fee or reduce coverage after the first transfer

Filing a Warranty Claim

Homeowners should understand the process of filing a claim before choosing a roofing warranty. Some claims require extensive documentation, while others offer streamlined digital submission options.

Steps to File a Claim

Review the Warranty Terms: Understand what is covered and required documentation
Contact the Manufacturer or Contractor: Notify the provider of the issue as soon as possible
Gather Documentation: Include purchase records, installation invoices, maintenance logs, and photos of the damage
Schedule an Inspection: The warranty provider may require a professional assessment to confirm the issue falls under coverage
Follow Up on the Claim: Some warranties have strict timelines, so monitor the claim process to ensure a timely resolution

Choosing a Reliable Roofing Contractor

Selecting a reputable roofing contractor ensures proper installation, which directly affects warranty validity. A trustworthy contractor will provide clear warranty information, professional installation, and ongoing maintenance services.

Homeowners in Midlothian, TX, can rely on Vera Roofing And Construction for top-tier roofing services. As a GAF Master Elite Contractor and Firestone/Elevate Licensed Contractor for Commercial Roofs, the company upholds the highest standards in the industry. Vera Roofing And Construction holds an A+ BBB rating and works with leading brands like Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Atlas, IKO, Firestone/Elevate, Mulehide, and F Wave. Their dedication to integrity and quality ensures that every roofing project meets the highest durability and performance standards.

FAQs

1. How long do roofing warranties typically last?

Manufacturer warranties range from 10 years to a lifetime, while contractor warranties typically last 1 to 10 years, depending on the contractor.

2. Does a roofing warranty cover storm damage?

Standard warranties do not cover extreme weather damage, but some extended warranties provide additional protection against wind, hail, and heavy rain.

3. What voids a roofing warranty?

Common reasons include improper installation, lack of maintenance, unauthorized modifications, and failure to register the warranty after installation.

4. Can a roofing warranty be transferred to a new homeowner?

Many warranties offer transferability, but some have restrictions, fees, or reduced coverage after the first transfer.

5. Do I need to register my roofing warranty?

Some manufacturers require registration within a specific time frame after installation to activate coverage. Always confirm registration requirements with the provider.

Conclusion

A comprehensive roofing warranty provides valuable protection against material defects, installation errors, and unexpected repairs. Understanding coverage options, exclusions, and maintenance requirements ensures homeowners get the best possible protection for their investment. Choosing a reputable contractor and maintaining routine inspections are key to maximizing warranty benefits and extending roof longevity.