It’s National Roofing Week, and we’re committed to providing ongoing education. Understanding your roof warranties is so important. Your roof is one of the most important elements of your property. It offers protection against harsh elements, storms, weather events, adds aesthetic appeal and also plays a major role in your home value. In this article, we’ll cover the different types of roof warranties, what they cover, and how to make the most of them.
Having the right warranty is essential to ensure you’re covered in case the roofing system fails due to defective products or poor installation. Having a licensed, reputable contractor install your roof per local building codes and manufacturer guidelines is also imperative. Your contractor should provide you with all of the product warranty information and options upfront. Be sure to read the fine print carefully. Knowing what warranties come with your new roof and understanding the details can save you a whole lot of hassle and headache down the road.
At National Restoration North Carolina (NRNC), we specialize in residential and commercial roofing replacements, installations, repairs, and emergency roofing services.
What A Warranty Is & Is Not
A warranty is a legal statement that limits issuer liability for any failure to perform the issuer’s product or service. A warranty is not insurance, nor is it a maintenance agreement.
Types of Roof Warranties
Roof warranties come in various forms, each offering a different level of coverage and protection. Here are the most common types:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty
Manufacturer warranties cover defects in roofing materials. They typically range from 20 to 50 years, depending on the type of material and brand. These warranties ensure that your roofing materials will perform as expected and are free from manufacturing defects during the specified period. This warranty is non-negotiable, so it’s important to understand what it covers and review the fine print with your contractor. This warranty can be void if your roof is not installed properly. This is why it’s also so important to choose a quality contractor!
- Workmanship Warranty
Also known as a contractor’s warranty, this warranty is provided by the contractor that installed your roof, and guarantees the installation and workmanship. Workmanship warranties can range from 1-10 years and protect against mistakes made during the roof installation process.
- Extended Warranty
Some manufacturers and contractors offer extended warranties, which provide additional coverage beyond the standard warranty period. These extended warranties often require regular maintenance and inspections to remain valid.
- Roof System Warranty
These comprehensive warranties cover both materials and workmanship. They are often bundled by roofing contractors who use specific manufacturer-approved materials and installation methods. Roof system warranties can provide peace of mind, as they cover a wide range of potential issues.
What Do Roof Warranties Cover?
The specific coverage of a roof warranty can vary, but there are some common elements you can expect to find:
- Material Defects: Most warranties cover defects in roofing materials, ensuring they perform as intended. This includes issues like shingle granule loss, cracking, or premature deterioration.
- Workmanship Errors: Workmanship warranties address installation errors made by the contractor, such as improper flashing, inadequate ventilation, or incorrect fastening of roofing materials.
- Wind and Hail Damage: Many warranties include provisions for wind and hail damage, though coverage may vary depending on the warranty type and severity of the weather event.
- Manufacturer’s Responsibility: Manufacturer warranties typically cover the replacement or repair of defective materials but do not extend to the cost of labor for installation.
- Limited Coverage: It’s essential to read the fine print. Many warranties have limitations, such as not covering damage caused by natural disasters like earthquakes or extreme weather conditions.
How to Make the Most of Your Roof Warranty
- Read and Understand the Warranty: Before signing any contract, carefully read and understand the terms of the warranty. Note the duration, what’s covered, and any exclusions.
- Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of all maintenance and inspections related to your roof. This documentation will be essential if you ever need to make a warranty claim.
- Routine Inspections & Regular Maintenance: Most warranties require regular inspections and maintenance to remain valid. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure your roof stays in good condition.
- Choose a Reputable Contractor: Work with a reputable and experienced roofing contractor who offers warranties on their workmanship. This ensures that the installation is done correctly and that you have a point of contact for any warranty-related concerns.
- Understand Transferability: If you plan to sell your property, check if the warranty is transferable to the new owner. This can add value to your home.
Roof warranties are valuable tools that help protect your investment. By understanding the different types of warranties, what they cover, and how to make the most of them, you can ensure that your roof remains in excellent condition for years to come. Remember to read and follow the warranty terms, perform regular maintenance, and work with reputable contractors to maximize the benefits of your roof warranty.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Roofing Warranties
- How is value calculated over time?
Often, warranties cover only the depreciated value of your roof, which means less money is paid towards replacement the older your roof is. It’s important to ask about proration associated with your warranty. The exponential decrease in value of the roof over time may be factored.
- If I sell my home, is my warranty transferable?
In most cases, the homeowner who had the roof installed is the only person entitled to the warranty benefits. Sometimes, transferrable warranties are offered. If you plan to sell your home in the near future, inquire about this option. If you’re a new homeowner and you have a transferable warranty in your contract, know that the previous owner may be required to notify of the transfer within a certain time limit of the sale, in order to ensure that transfer is honored.
- Does my warranty have any exclusions?
Some exclusions include disasters; Acts of God; weather-related damage from water, wind, hail; or subpar roof repairs and alterations. A manufacturer might only warranty certain materials, i.e. asphalt shingles, and may require specific installation methodologies per manufacturer. If you had shoddy repairs from an inexperienced or unlicensed contractor that compromised the integrity of your roof, this can void your warranty. In some cases, there may also be exceptions based on where you live or who installed your roof. It’s important to discuss these details with your contractor.
- What do I do if there’s an issue and I’m still under warranty?
Contact your manufacturer and the contractor who installed your roof if you suspect there’s an issue.
- Can my warranty be cancelled?
The easiest way to void your warranty is to put off maintaining it. Regular maintenance by an approved contractor is crucial if you want to keep your warranty valid. It’s recommended to get a roof inspection at least twice a year. To keep your warranty intact, be sure to choose a licensed contractor who has references, testimonials and a stellar reputation for quality workmanship.
About National Restoration North Carolina
At National Restoration North Carolina, we provide an array of options to ensure the lifespan and longevity of your new roofing system. As a Licensed General Contractor with over 20 years of experience, our expert team provides a range of services including roofing replacements, installation, repairs, storm damage restoration, siding, gutters, and more! We provide full-scope, comprehensive inspections including photos, estimates, scope of work, damage assessments, manufacturer/product options and warranty recommendations. We proudly utilize the best materials and latest technology to provide the most advanced level of service to our customers. We help homeowners and businesses throughout Union, Cabarrus, Mecklenburg, Stanly, Anson, Davidson, and Catawba Counties. If you’d like to get started or learn more, call us at 980-290-1913 or contact us for a roofing inspection!
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