Understanding the Different Warranties Offered With Roofing Materials
Understanding the Different Warranties Offered With Roofing Materials
Homeownership comes with its fair share of challenges, among them understanding the myriad warranties associated with roofing materials. These warranties typically fall into three categories: standard material warranties, extended material warranties, and workmanship warranties.
These warranties, provided by the manufacturers of roofing products, offer coverage for material failure over a span of 20-50 years. However, it's important to note that this coverage does not include installation.
Standard Manufacturer’s Warranties
Standard manufacturer's warranties are a common feature with most residential roofing materials. They offer coverage ranging from 25-50 years, safeguarding homeowners against issues directly related to the style of shingle chosen and protection against weather-related damage such as heavy rain or snowfall.
It's important to note that these warranties do not cover damage caused by severe weather events like heavy rainfall or snowfall. In some cases, ongoing maintenance may be required to keep the warranty valid.
These standard warranties are issued directly by the shingle manufacturer and not your roofing contractor. This is because any problems arising from craftsmanship errors will not be covered by these policies.
However, many manufacturers also offer enhanced warranties that cover both materials and craftsmanship. To be eligible for these enhanced warranties, all components from a specific manufacturer (excluding easily replaceable accessories like underlayment and venting) must make up your entire roofing system.
Though these enhanced warranties may not be available to all customers, they offer an excellent opportunity for those looking to maximize their return on investment in new roofing materials.
Manufacturer’s Warranties
Beyond standard material warranties, roofing material manufacturers often provide their customers with extended warranties. To qualify for these warranties, you must be approved and credentialed as an installer by the manufacturer, and register your roofing system with them.
These warranty plans often cover everything from shingle color and shape, underlayment material, and the installation of an ice/water barrier. However, it's worth noting that these warranties typically do not cover damage caused by heavy snowfall or hail, which are common weather conditions in the Northeast.
Maintaining a relationship with a single contractor throughout the lifespan of your roofing system can help ensure the validity of its warranty. This avoids potential misunderstandings and ensures you have a point of contact should any post-installation issues arise. This is especially important considering that up to 99% of leaky shingle cases result from poor craftsmanship rather than defective shingles.
Understanding Workmanship Warranties
A reputable roofing contractor should provide a workmanship warranty. This covers any costs related to damage caused by installation mistakes. Since homeowner insurance often doesn't include coverage for roofing-related issues, a high-quality warranty can help bridge this gap.
Most manufacturers only offer standard material warranties for roof shingles installed by an accredited roofing contractor. This is because leaky roofs are usually not the result of defective materials; instead, improper installation tends to be the culprit.
It's worth noting that most manufacturer warranties require registration within a specific timeframe and may become void if repairs are attempted independently or outsourced to a different roofing contractor. As a result, many homeowners opt for extended warranties, which can be transferred to new owners.
The Importance of Proper Installation
When it comes to installing a new roof, the importance of proper installation cannot be overstated. The majority of roofing issues, including leaky roofs, are often due to poor craftsmanship rather than defective materials.
A poorly installed roof can lead to a host of problems, such as water leaks, structural damage, and even mold growth. Such issues can not only cause significant damage to your home but also result in costly repairs.
By ensuring your roof is installed correctly from the start, you can avoid these problems and ensure your roof lasts for its expected lifespan. A well-installed roof also helps maintain the validity of your warranty, as many manufacturer warranties can become null and void if repairs are attempted by someone other than the original roofing contractor.
The Benefit of Extended Warranties
While standard manufacturer's warranties offer coverage for material failure, they do not cover installation errors. This is where extended warranties come in.
Extended warranties from manufacturers go beyond standard material warranties, offering additional coverage for installation errors, severe weather damage, and more. These warranties require credentialing and registration of the roof system, ensuring that the installation is carried out by a qualified professional.
What makes extended warranties attractive to many homeowners is the added peace of mind they offer. Knowing that your roof is covered for both material failure and installation errors can save you a lot of stress and potential repair costs in the future.
Furthermore, extended warranties often come with the added benefit of being transferable. This means that if you sell your home, the warranty can be transferred to the new owners. This can be a significant selling point, adding value to your property.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the different warranties available for roofing materials is crucial when planning a new roof installation. Whether it's a standard material warranty, an extended warranty, or a workmanship warranty, each offers its own set of coverages and benefits.
By understanding these warranties, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and ensures your roof is protected for years to come. Remember, a well-installed roof not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home but also contributes to its overall value and structural integrity.
Understanding the Different Warranties Offered With Roofing Materials Homeownership comes with its fair share of challenges, among them understanding the myriad warranties associated with roofing materials. These warranties typically fall into three categories: standard material warranties, extended material warranties, and workmanship warranties. These warranties, provided by the manufacturers of roofing products, offer coverage for material…