Roof warranties protect both materials and workmanship for a set time, while insurance covers natural disasters. Most manufacturer warranties last 10–30 years but only cover material defects, not poor maintenance, extreme weather or a bad installation. Workmanship warranties typically cover leaks or property damage but not weather-related shingle issues, which can cost up to $12,000 to repair. Regular inspections, working with reliable contractors, and warranty registration can help reduce your risk for a claim rejections.
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When people think about protecting their roof, they often consider annual and ongoing maintenance, winter prep, and cleaning the gutters first. These strategies are important, but they won’t protect you from roof damage related to the install itself, early failure, or defective materials.
One of the best ways to avoid a hefty and unplanned roof replacement bill is to consider getting a roof warranty. Read this roof warranty guide to learn all the essentials and determine if it’s the right option for your home or business.
A roof warranty is a formal guarantee that the roof materials and/or roof installation will last a set number of years, barring any unforeseen catastrophes, such as a tornado or fallen tree.
Roof damage caused by an act of nature or sudden accidental event often falls under a property owner’s insurance policy. If storms, floods, or fires are a constant threat, it makes sense to invest in additional protection for your roof and property.
The details of your roof warranty will vary depending on whether it’s a manufacturer warranty or a contractor warranty.
Here’s the difference:
When inquiring about roof warranties, it’s important to read the fine print, as every company may have slightly different policies. For example, Roof Maxx’s warranty is valid for five years starting from the date your roof is treated. It stays valid even if your roof warranty is void.
Manufacturer roof warranties cover roofing materials, like roof shingles. Most manufacturer policies last between 10-30 years, but some companies also offer 50-year or lifetime policies.
It’s common for companies to offer a standard/limited version and a premium/extended version. Keep in mind that extended policies often have weaker long-term benefits past a specific date, and prices will be prorated (so they reflect future prices).
What manufacturer roof warranties cover varies from company to company, so it’s important to read the fine print carefully and ask questions about anything that isn’t clear. The cost of replacing defective shingles is nearly always covered.
A few exceptions exist, such as:
Shingles also don’t last as long as they used to in the first place, mainly because they contain less asphalt than they used to. So, it’s especially important to have the right coverage.
A contractor/workmanship roof warranty covers the installation itself. It’s important to only work with roofing contractors who offer warranties because the warranty acts as a guarantee that the company you’re working with is trustworthy and will stand behind their work.
Contractor policies vary in length and terms. Before signing any paperwork, research the roofing company’s reputation and policies. Meet with the contractor ahead of the installation to go over all the fine print.
A contractor’s warranty will often cover any damage or issues caused during the installation process. For example, a leak caused by improper shingle placement or damage to the exterior or interior of a home due to worker error.
The main exceptions are:
Most policies won’t cover damage done after the installation unless it happened as a direct result of an installation error. For example, if you have solar panels installed and the installer fumbles the rack installation or makes changes to your flashing, that wouldn’t be covered.
Roof warranties, especially contractor warranties, vary in quality and often have a lot of technical jargon. If you’re struggling to understand the fine print, follow these four steps to protect your warranty.
Annual inspections make it easier to spot problems early or prevent them from happening in the first place. Your roofer will check for shingle or flashing damage, pest problems, leaks, standing water, ventilation issues, clogged gutters, and more.
Properly maintaining your roof is the best way to avoid the need for costly repairs or early replacement. DIY strategies like cleaning gutters aren’t always enough on their own.
Try to keep the same contractor. Doing so will allow you to build a long-term relationship, which means quicker repairs because they’ll be familiar with their work and your roof.
Keeping the same contractor can also help protect your warranty. Many contractors have strict policies that void the warranty if another contracting company alters the original company’s work with additional repairs or additions.
Always submit your warranty registration directly to the manufacturer.
If you’re extending your policy or choosing a premium version, the process is a bit more complicated. Your contractor has to submit the policy, and they need to be qualified to provide it in the first place.
Make sure that the contractor provides all the services they promised and that you understand each line of the policy before signing. Also, verify that the contractor is certified by the shingle manufacturer to offer you a policy.
Read More: 9 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Asphalt Shingles
Roof replacement costs vary greatly depending on where you live, your roof materials, and the size and design of your roof. Replacing shingles can cost between $5,000 to $12,000.
It’s only logical to want to avoid further roof repair or replacement bills after installing your new roof. Seeing that roof warranties kick in whenever your roof contractor or manufacturer is at fault, you shouldn’t have to foot the bill.
It’s critically important to understand what your roof warranty covers before you install a new roof or have any work done to the one you already have in place. Knowing what your coverage includes is the best way to avoid costly surprises later on down the road.
Roof Maxx is one of the best ways to keep your asphalt shingle roof in good condition over the years so you can avoid claims. Our plant-based, eco-friendly roof rejuvenation solution makes shingles flexible again without voiding any part of your roof warranty in the process.
Connect with a dealer near you to get a free quote!
With our five-year, transferable warranty, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that your roof and entire home are protected.
