What Every Homeowner Should Know About Roofing Warranties
Why Roofing Warranties Are More Important Than You Think?
Are you a homeowner planning to get a new roof or maybe just curious about how roofing warranties work? You’re not alone if warranties aren’t the first thing that come to mind. Most people focus on the look of the shingles, how much it will cost, or how long the project will take. Warranties? Not exactly the most exciting part, right? But did you know that ignoring the warranty details could actually cost you later on? That little piece of paper that often gets overlooked can be the one thing that saves you from spending big if something goes wrong with your roof.
On this blog, we’re going to talk about what roofing warranties really cover, clear up some common misunderstandings, and help you avoid simple mistakes that could void your coverage. Whether you’re getting a brand-new roof or just want to understand what you already have, this guide will break everything down in a way that’s easy to follow. Let’s get into it.
What Is a Roofing Warranty?
A roofing warranty is basically a promise from either the manufacturer or the contractor that if something goes wrong with your roof and it wasn’t caused by you or by outside damage, you could be covered for repairs or replacement. It gives you some peace of mind knowing you’re not left alone if there’s an issue. But here’s the thing, not all warranties are the same, and that’s where it can get confusing. Some only cover the roofing materials, like shingles or underlayment. Others cover the actual work done during the installation. A few offer both, but with certain conditions. That’s why it’s so important to understand exactly what kind of warranty you have before anything happens. It’s one of those things you might not think about until there’s a problem, so getting clear on it now can save you from a lot of stress later on.
3 Main Types of Roofing Warranties
There are three main types you’ll hear about. Each one is different, and each one protects you in a different way.
1. Manufacturer Warranty
A manufacturer warranty comes directly from the company that made your roofing materials, like the shingles, underlayment, or other parts of the roofing system. This type of warranty mainly protects you if the materials turn out to be faulty. For example, if your shingles start cracking, curling, or breaking apart way earlier than they should, and it’s not caused by weather or bad installation, the manufacturer may provide new materials at no cost.
But here’s where you need to be careful. Most of the time, this warranty only covers the cost of the materials, not the labor to replace them. So even if you get free shingles, you’ll still have to pay someone to take off the damaged ones and install the new ones. It’s still helpful, but it doesn’t always cover the full cost of the repair. That’s why it’s good to know what’s included and what’s not before you run into a problem.
2. Workmanship Warranty
A workmanship warranty is provided by the contractor who installs your roof. It covers you if something goes wrong because of how the roof was installed. Maybe the flashing wasn’t sealed right, the nails weren’t placed properly, or the roofer missed a step. These are all things that fall under workmanship, and this kind of warranty is your protection in case something wasn’t done correctly.
But not all workmanship warranties are the same. Some contractors offer coverage for just one year, while others may cover their work for ten years or more. Some warranties only include basic repairs, while others might offer full roof replacement if needed. That’s why it’s so important to ask your roofer for the full details.
Also, make sure the contractor you hire actually stands behind their work. A great workmanship warranty means nothing if the contractor disappears when something goes wrong. Pick someone who is reliable and has a solid reputation in your area.
3. Extended Manufacturer Warranty
An extended manufacturer warranty is kind of like the upgraded version of the basic warranty. You can only get this if your roof is installed by a certified contractor and you use all of the materials from one specific brand. That means the whole system comes from the same company, like the shingles, underlayment, vents, and other parts.
The benefit of this kind of warranty is that it usually gives you more coverage. In many cases, it will include both the materials and the labor to fix or replace anything that fails due to a defect. Some extended warranties also cover extra costs like tearing off the old roof and getting rid of the debris. Plus, these warranties can last 25 years or even longer, depending on the brand and contractor.
Just keep in mind, these warranties don’t come automatically. You’ll probably need to register the warranty after the installation and make sure all the proper steps are followed. But if you plan to stay in your home for a long time, the extra coverage and peace of mind can be worth it.
Common Misunderstandings About Warranties
Let’s be honest, roofing warranties can be a little confusing, and it’s easy to believe things that just aren’t true. One common misunderstanding is thinking that the warranty covers every leak. The truth is, it doesn’t. If the leak is caused by something like a skylight, a chimney, or a clogged gutter, the warranty usually won’t help. Another thing people often think is that it’s fine to hire any roofer and the warranty will still be good. That’s not the case. If the roof isn’t installed the right way, the warranty might be canceled and you’ll be stuck paying for repairs on your own. And finally, many homeowners believe their roof warranty covers storm damage. It doesn’t. Warranties only cover defects in the roofing materials or the way it was installed. If a storm causes damage, that’s something your home insurance should take care of. Knowing these things ahead of time can help you avoid a lot of frustration later.
What Should You Do as a Homeowner?
Here’s a simple checklist to help you stay protected:
- Ask your roofer what kind of warranty is included
- Find out how long the warranty lasts
- Make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered
- Keep all your paperwork
- Do regular maintenance on your roof
- Register your warranty if needed
Roof warranties might not be the most exciting topic, but they’re one of those things that really matter when it counts. They can save you a lot of stress and money if something goes wrong with your roof. Taking the time to understand what’s covered, what’s not, and how to keep your warranty valid is a smart move. It’s also important to work with a roofing contractor who knows what they’re doing and stands behind their work. A strong warranty means nothing if the job isn’t done right in the first place.
Before you move forward with any roofing project, take a few minutes to ask questions and read the fine print. Know what kind of warranty you’re getting and what steps you need to take to keep it active. And if you’re unsure about anything, don’t be afraid to ask a trusted local roofer for help. It’s always better to get clear answers now than to be surprised later when something doesn’t go as planned. A little knowledge today can save you a big headache tomorrow.
If you have questions about your roof warranty or need help with a roofing project, we’re here to help. Get in touch with the team at Twin Peaks Roofing & Construction and let’s talk about what you need. We’ll make sure you understand your options and feel confident about the roof over your head.