Understanding Roofing Warranties: What’s Covered and What’s Not


When you invest in a new roof for your home, you’re not just protecting your property from the elements; you’re also making a substantial financial commitment. To ensure your peace of mind and safeguard your investment, it’s crucial to comprehend the nuances of roofing warranties. In this guide, we’ll delve into the specifics of what’s covered and what’s not covered by typical roofing warranties. exact roofing

Types of Roofing Warranties:

  1. Manufacturer’s Warranty: This warranty is provided by the manufacturer of the roofing materials themselves. It covers defects in the materials used for your roof, such as shingles or tiles. Manufacturer’s warranties can vary in duration, typically ranging from 20 to 50 years.
  2. Workmanship Warranty: Also known as a contractor’s warranty, this covers the installation work performed by the roofing company. It guarantees that the roof was installed according to industry standards and best practices. Workmanship warranties typically last for a shorter period, often around 1 to 10 years.
  3. Extended Warranty: Some manufacturers and roofing companies offer extended warranties for an additional cost. These warranties can enhance coverage and provide more protection than standard warranties.

What’s Covered:

  1. Defects in Materials: Manufacturer’s warranties cover defects that cause the roofing materials to perform below expected standards. This includes issues like premature cracking, splitting, or warping of shingles.
  2. Premature Aging: If your roof starts showing signs of aging well before its expected lifespan, a manufacturer’s warranty might cover the replacement costs.
  3. Waterproofing Failures: Leakage due to manufacturing defects in the roofing materials is often covered by warranties. Make sure to understand the warranty’s terms regarding water damage.
  4. Installation Errors: A workmanship warranty covers errors made during the installation process. This includes issues like improper sealing of flashing, incorrect installation of underlayment, or poor ventilation.
  5. Partial Repairs or Replacement: Depending on the warranty, you might be eligible for partial repairs or replacement of damaged sections of the roof.
  6. Transferability: Many warranties are transferable to subsequent homeowners within a certain timeframe, enhancing the resale value of your property.

What’s Not Covered:

  1. Normal Wear and Tear: Warranties typically don’t cover damage that occurs due to natural aging, weathering, or exposure to environmental elements over time.
  2. Acts of Nature: Damage caused by extreme weather events like hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornadoes is usually excluded from warranties. However, your homeowner’s insurance might cover such incidents.
  3. Improper Maintenance: If you fail to maintain your roof as per the manufacturer’s recommendations, certain warranties might become void.
  4. Unapproved Modifications: If you make alterations to your roof without manufacturer or contractor approval, it could void your warranty.
  5. Secondary Damages: Warranties often don’t cover secondary damages caused by a roofing issue, such as interior water damage.
  6. Temporary Fixes: Any repairs you undertake without professional assistance might not be covered, and they might even void your warranty.

Tips for Maximizing Warranty Benefits:

  1. Read the Fine Print: Carefully review the terms and conditions of your warranty to fully understand its coverage and limitations.
  2. Regular Inspections: Schedule regular roof inspections to catch potential issues early and address them before they escalate.
  3. Document Everything: Keep records of maintenance, repairs, and any correspondence with the roofing company. This documentation can be invaluable if you need to make a warranty claim.

In conclusion, roofing warranties can provide essential protection for your investment, but understanding their coverage and limitations is key. By knowing what’s covered and what’s not, you can make informed decisions to keep your roof in optimal condition and ensure the longevity of your home’s protection.


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