A new roof is one of the largest investments a homeowner may make. Along with the materials and workmanship, a key part of that investment is the warranty that comes with it.
Roofing warranties are not all the same. They differ in coverage, duration, and the parties responsible for fixing problems if things go wrong.
Understanding roof replacement warranties can help homeowners know what to expect when reviewing their options. This guide explains the types of warranties available, what they typically cover, and how to avoid actions that could void them.
Why Warranties Matter For A New Roof
A roof warranty protects your financial investment by covering certain types of damage or failure. It may apply to materials, labor, or both, depending on the terms.
Roof replacement costs range from $8,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on factors like material type, roof size, and installation complexity. Many homeowners turn to low cost roof replacement tips to help minimize these expenses. Without warranty coverage, unexpected repairs can lead to new out-of-pocket expenses.
- Financial protection: Warranties help cover repair costs if your roof develops problems due to material defects or installation errors.
- Quality assurance: A comprehensive warranty often indicates the manufacturer and contractor stand behind their products and work.
- Peace of mind: Knowing your roof is protected can reduce worry about potential future problems.
Types Of Roofing Warranties Explained
Most new roofs come with multiple types of warranties. Each covers different aspects of your roofing system:
1. Manufacturer Material Warranty
The manufacturer material warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. If your shingles crack, blister, or lose granules prematurely due to manufacturing flaws, this warranty applies.
Standard material warranties typically last 20-30 years for asphalt shingles, though premium products may offer 50-year or “lifetime” coverage. The coverage usually includes replacement materials but not labor costs for installation.
Many shingle warranties are prorated after a certain period, meaning the coverage value decreases as your roof ages. For example, a 30-year roof warranty might provide full replacement value for the first 10 years, then reduced coverage afterward.
2. Roof Workmanship Warranty
The workmanship warranty comes from your roofing contractor and covers installation-related issues. If your roof leaks because of improper flashing installation or incorrect shingle placement, this warranty would apply.
Most contractors offer workmanship warranties ranging from 2 to 10 years, though some premium installers provide longer coverage. Unlike material warranties, workmanship warranties typically cover both materials and labor needed to fix installation errors.
- Coverage scope: Protects against leaks, failures, or damage caused by improper installation techniques
- Provider responsibility: The contractor who installed your roof is responsible for honoring this warranty
- Documentation importance: Always get this warranty in writing with specific terms about what’s covered
3. Extended Or Enhanced Warranty
Enhanced warranties combine material and workmanship coverage into a more comprehensive package. These are usually available only through contractors certified by the manufacturer, such as an Owens Corning roofing system.
These premium warranties often include benefits like:
- Non-prorated coverage (full value throughout the warranty period)
- Coverage for both materials and installation labor
- Transferability to a new homeowner if you sell your home
- Longer coverage periods (sometimes 50 years or “lifetime”)
To qualify for these warranties, all roofing components typically must come from one manufacturer, and installation must be performed by a certified contractor.
What Does A Roof Warranty Typically Cover
A standard roof warranty covers specific issues related to materials and installation. Understanding what’s included helps you know when you can file a claim.
Most material warranties cover manufacturing defects that cause premature failure. This includes problems like shingles that crack, curl, or lose their protective granules earlier than expected under normal conditions.
Workmanship warranties typically cover installation errors that lead to roof failure or damage. This might include improper nailing patterns, incorrect flashing installation, or inadequate sealing around roof penetrations.
Common covered issues include:
- Manufacturing defects in shingles or roofing materials
- Premature granule loss or cracking
- Installation errors (if workmanship warranty applies)
- Leaks caused by covered defects
It’s important to note that most warranties don’t cover damage from extreme weather events, improper maintenance, or modifications made after installation.
How Long Are Roof Warranties And What Is Lifetime Coverage
Roof warranty length varies by material type and warranty category. Understanding these differences helps you know how long your protection lasts.
The term “lifetime” in roofing warranties usually means as long as you own your home, not the actual lifespan of the product. Most manufacturers define “lifetime” in their warranty documents, often with specific year limits.
| Material Type | Standard Warranty | Premium/Lifetime Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingles | 20-30 years | 30-50 years/lifetime |
| Architectural Shingles | 30-50 years | Lifetime |
| Metal Roofing | 30-50 years | Lifetime |
| Tile/Slate | 50+ years | Lifetime |
Many premium warranties include a non-prorated period, during which you receive full replacement value. After this period, coverage may be prorated based on the roof’s age.
Some warranties can be transferred to a new owner if you sell your home, though there may be limitations or fees involved. This transferability can be a selling point when marketing your home.
What Voids A Roof Warranty
Certain actions or conditions can invalidate your roof warranty, leaving you without coverage when problems arise. Being aware of these potential warranty-voiders helps you maintain your protection.
Improper installation by uncertified contractors is a common reason warranties get voided. Manufacturers often require installation by certified professionals to honor their warranties.
Making unauthorized repairs or modifications can also nullify warranty coverage. This includes adding new roof penetrations, installing satellite dishes, or having repairs done by someone other than the original installer.
- Lack of maintenance: Neglecting basic roof care like cleaning gutters or removing debris
- Improper ventilation: Inadequate attic ventilation can cause heat and moisture damage
- Unauthorized materials: Using components not approved by the original manufacturer
- Pressure washing: This aggressive cleaning method can damage shingles
Regular roof inspections help identify potential issues before they void your warranty. Most manufacturers recommend professional inspections at least once a year and after major storms.
How To Protect Your Warranty Coverage
Maintaining your warranty coverage requires following specific guidelines and keeping good records. These simple practices help ensure your warranty remains valid.
1. Schedule Regular Inspections
Annual professional free roof inspection near you helps identify potential problems before they become serious. Many warranties require these inspections to maintain coverage.
Keep documentation of all inspections, including dates, findings, and any recommended maintenance. This paperwork serves as proof that you’ve fulfilled warranty requirements.
2. Follow Approved Maintenance
Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major problems. Simple tasks like cleaning gutters and removing debris help protect your roof and maintain warranty coverage.
- Gutter maintenance: Clear gutters and downspouts at least twice yearly
- Debris removal: Keep the roof surface clear of leaves, branches, and other debris
- Moss prevention: Address any moss or algae growth promptly with appropriate treatments
Avoid walking on your roof unnecessarily, as this can damage shingles and potentially void warranty coverage.
3. Keep Records And Documentation
Maintaining organized records of all roof-related documents protects your warranty rights. Keep these important items in a safe, accessible location:
- Original warranty certificates
- Contractor invoices and receipts
- Inspection reports
- Maintenance records
- Photos of your roof before and after installation
Digital copies provide backup protection, but physical copies are also valuable. In case of a claim, these documents provide proof that you’ve met all warranty requirements.
Does Home Warranty Cover Roof Or Shingle Warranty
Home warranties and roof warranties are different types of coverage with distinct purposes. Understanding these differences helps you know which warranty applies to specific roof issues.
A home warranty is a service contract that covers repairs to various home systems and appliances. While some home warranties include limited roof leak repair coverage, they typically don’t cover full roof replacement or material defects.
Roof-specific warranties from manufacturers and contractors provide more comprehensive roof protection. These include material warranties from shingle manufacturers and workmanship warranties from installation contractors.
If you have a home warranty that covers roof, it likely only applies to minor leak repairs up to a specified dollar amount. For material defects or installation problems, you’ll need to use your roof-specific warranty instead.
When reviewing home warranty roof coverage, check the specific terms and limitations. Most home warranties exclude pre-existing conditions, improper installation, and damage from weather events.
Key Steps To Compare Warranty Options
When evaluating different roof warranty options, several key factors determine which provides the best protection for your investment.
1. Examine Coverage Length And Limits
Compare how long each warranty lasts and what specific exclusions apply. A 50-year non-prorated warranty offers significantly more value than a 10-year limited warranty with numerous exclusions.
Look beyond the headline years to understand what the warranty actually covers during that period. Some warranties maintain full coverage throughout their term, while others reduce coverage significantly after an initial period.
2. Check Transferability Clauses
A transferable warranty adds value to your home if you decide to sell. Some warranties transfer to new owners at no cost, while others require a transfer fee or have a limited transfer window.
Review the specific transfer requirements, including any documentation, inspection, or notification deadlines. Missing these requirements could make the warranty non-transferable.
3. Evaluate Pro Rated Versus Non Prorated Terms
Non-prorated warranties maintain full value throughout their coverage period, while prorated warranties decrease in value over time.
For example, with a 30-year non-prorated warranty, you receive full replacement value even in year 29. With a prorated warranty, you might only receive 10% of the replacement cost in later years.
4. Confirm Contractor Certifications
Certified contractors can offer enhanced warranties from manufacturers. These certifications indicate specialized training and higher installation standards.
Major certifications include Owens Corning Platinum Preferred, GAF Master Elite, and CertainTeed Select ShingleMaster. Contractors with these designations can offer the most comprehensive warranty options.
Why Amstill Roofing Warranties Stand Out
Amstill Roofing provides comprehensive warranty options based on manufacturer certifications and installation expertise. As an Owens Corning Platinum and GAF Master Elite certified contractor, Amstill can offer enhanced warranty options not available through non-certified installers.
These enhanced warranties include features like non-prorated coverage periods, coverage for both materials and workmanship, and transferability to new homeowners. Such comprehensive coverage provides superior protection compared to standard limited warranties.
With over 50 years of experience, Amstill Roofing has established a track record of honoring warranty commitments and providing ongoing support to customers throughout the warranty period. This reliability is reflected in their 4.9-star rating from over 1,300 customer reviews.
For a free roof inspection to discuss warranty options for your new roof, visit https://amstillroofing.com/contact/
Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Warranties
What is the average guarantee period for a new roof?
Most new roofs come with warranties ranging from 20 to 50 years for materials, while workmanship warranties typically range from 2 to 10 years.
Are roof warranties worth the additional cost?
Enhanced warranties provide valuable protection against expensive repairs and replacements, especially for high-quality roofing systems intended to last decades.
Can I purchase a roof warranty after installation?
Some manufacturers offer extended warranties for purchase after installation, but options are limited and often require inspection of the existing roof.
How do I know if my roof warranty is still valid?
Check your warranty documentation for expiration dates and contact your contractor or manufacturer to verify current status if you’re unsure.
Do roof warranties cover damage from extreme weather?
Most standard roof warranties exclude damage from extreme weather events like hail, high winds, or fallen trees, which are typically covered by homeowners insurance instead.
What’s the difference between a 30-year shingle and a 30-year warranty?
A 30-year shingle refers to the expected lifespan of the product under ideal conditions, while a 30-year warranty specifies the period during which the manufacturer will cover defects.
How do I file a roof warranty claim?
Contact your roofing contractor or manufacturer, provide documentation of the issue, and follow their specific claim process, which typically includes inspection and assessment.
Can a new owner benefit from my roof warranty?
Many roof warranties are transferable to new homeowners, but transfer must usually occur within a specified time frame and may require paperwork and fees.
