Roofing Warranties: What They Cover and What to Know

Roofing warranties provide important protections for homeowners investing in a new roof. They guarantee the materials, workmanship, and other aspects of the replacement or installation. Having comprehensive roofing warranties gives homeowners confidence that any material or structural issues arising will be addressed under the warranty's coverage.

There are several reasons why comprehensive roofing warranties are crucial:

• They protect against defective materials or poor workmanship over a set time period, often 10–50 years, depending on the warranty.
• They give recourse if problems occur, like leaks or structural issues.
• Many come at no added cost from the manufacturer or contractor.

In short, quality roofing warranties provide essential protections for a major home investment. They give peace of mind that the roof is covered against many issues over its lifetime.

There are two main types of roofing warranties: manufacturer's warranties and workmanship warranties. Extended manufacturer's warranties are an optional, yet beneficial route to consider. Each serves an important purpose.

This warranty comes directly from the roof product manufacturer, like the shingle company. It typically covers defects in the roofing materials, like cracking, curling, or deterioration. Terms range from 10–50 years, depending on the materials used.

Roofing shingles typically come with a basic lifetime warranty covering the homeowner. The meaning of "lifetime" and "limited" varies by manufacturer. Most warranties only cover material defects, not labor for removing or installing shingles.

Many pay full replacement costs for several years, then prorated coverage. Initial coverage may include installation labor but not tear-off or disposal costs of old shingles. During proration, homeowners receive partial compensation. Standard warranties exclude premature failures from installation errors or defects in other roofing components like flashing or ventilation. Some manufacturers separately warrant those components.

The roofing contractor provides this warranty, guaranteeing their workmanship for installing the roof for a set time, often 1–5 years. It ensures any improper installation errors will be corrected. If things go wrong within the allotted time, it falls back to the contractor.

The roofing contractor greatly impacts roof performance and lifespan. Reputable installers provide a workmanship warranty, with coverage terms varying widely. Though longer is better, good warranties cover material failures from installation errors regardless of length.

Workmanship warranties typically include labor and materials for repairs, plus interior damage costs. Many exclude unrelated issues like storms, alterations, traffic damage, or debris. Vet contractors thoroughly on experience, work quality, and commitment to customers over warranty details. Factors like years in business and satisfaction track record matter more than the warranty itself.

Reputable roofing manufacturers offer extended warranties on full roof systems installed by their authorized contractors per strict specifications. These optional warranties, available for added cost, provide valuable coverage like:

• non-prorated repair or replacement of defective materials for up to 50 years
• lifetime workmanship coverage against installation errors, including labor or disposal fees
• protection for all system components except flashing, decking, and fasteners

By tying warranties to proper installation, manufacturers promote performance and durability. Vetting contractor certifications is essential to qualify for comprehensive coverage from top provider warranties.

Are you looking for a roofing contractor to help with your claims and warranties? Check out this helpful guide that provides tips on how to choose the best commercial roofing contractor for your project.

When damage to your roof is not covered by warranty, typically storm and animal damage, there are different kinds of insurance you can have to help with repairs and replacements. If these natural phenomena occur, make sure you have all the necessary documentation, inspections, and a trusted roofing partner to help walk you through the claims process.

Roof warranties will ensure you are not left to deal with improper installations, and the roofing contractor is held accountable for the kind of work they put into your roof. Altogether, reputable roofing contractors will be available and knowledgeable to fix whatever happens to your roof under warranty.

Insurance will come into play with covered peril. Insurance claims that fall under covered peril include wind damage and hail damage, among other extreme weather occurrences. However, make sure your roof is well maintained and up to date on inspections to avoid any hiccups in the claim process. It is not uncommon for insurance to not cover a neglected roof without proper inspection documentation.

To get the full benefits, carefully review all warranties before signing. Understand exactly what is and isn't covered to avoid surprises later.

Document everything thoroughly during the roof installation. Take photos and notes of materials used and work done. This provides proof if needed later for claims. If something seems off in the early years of your roof, address it with the contractor early. Waiting until the end of your warranty may not account for possible delays in service.

Follow all maintenance requirements stated in the warranties. This includes things like clearing debris and having professional inspections. Not doing required maintenance could void coverage. A roof maintenance plan is also a good way to address and fix problem areas early on in the lifespan of your roof.

Don’t let complex roof warranties and claims confuse you, let Trinity Construction Services figure out the fine print. Our skilled professionals can take the hassle out of insurance claim services, and help you get the most from your settlement. Contact Trinity Construction Services today for an insurance claim inspection.