Understanding Roofing Warranties: What You Need to Know

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Originally Posted On: https://vanguardhammerconstruction.com/understanding-roofing-warranties-what-you-need-to-know/

When purchasing a new roofing system or getting your existing roof serviced, it’s essential to understand how your warranty protects you. There are a few main types of warranties, each providing unique coverage and protection against specific damage over a defined period.

However, understanding your coverage and knowing which type of warranty is most suited to you can be challenging.

In this blog post, %COMPANY%’s experienced roofers have come together to create a comprehensive guide on roofing warranties. We discuss the ins and outs of warranties, highlight the most common types, and provide guidance on how to get the most out of your roof and coverage.

When you invest in construction services of any kind, whether it’s roofing, remodeling, or hardscaping, you should expect to hear about warranty coverage from your contractor. Warranties are designed to assure homeowners of the quality, longevity, and performance of their contracting and help protect their investments.

Roofing warranties offer peace of mind and recourse in the event of manufacturing or installation errors. Roofs protected under warranties adhere to minimum quality and safety standards and can be serviced with little or no charge when aspects of the warranty are activated.

Roofing warranties should provide the following:

• Quality assurances
• Financial protection
• Long-term quality control
• Legal protection
• Maintenance incentives
• Transferability options
• And more

When you purchase a new roof, the contractor or company you work with should discuss the warranties available to you. Understanding the different types of warranties available is essential to ensure your peace of mind and the longevity of your investment. These warranties each have unique features, offering various levels and types of protection.

The most common warranties you’ll find in the industry are the following:

A standard manufacturer’s warranty is a guarantee provided that the roofing materials you’re purchasing meet a certain level of quality and will perform as intended for a specified period. These warranties can vary in terms of coverage and typically cover the cost of defective materials but may not include labor charges to remove and replace parts of your roof.

Some warranties will cover the cost of replacing defective materials for the first few years and then change to prorated coverage or coverage that decreases in scope over time. Prorated coverage means that the farther into your warranty you get, the more limited the protection. Rather than providing you with complete financial compensation, the manufacturer may only cover part of the cost if damage occurs.

Manufacturer warranties typically include a limited lifetime guarantee and are the most standard warranties for residential roofs.

The second most common type of roofing warranty is a contractor workmanship warranty. Since the contractor who installs your roof plays a significant role in its performance, safety, and longevity, you should only work with roofers who offer warranties.

Most contractors will offer some type of coverage, but finding a lifetime warranty is ideal as it will protect you against material failures that occur because of worker errors. Contractor warranties should cover labor and material costs needed to make repairs and should also cover damage to your home’s interior and furnishings.

That being said, you should always read the fine print of your warranty agreement and ensure your insurance coverage offers complementary protection. Many contractor warranties may exclude issues that aren’t related to their installation service, such as:

• Storm and wind damage
• Water damage caused by ice dams
• Damages that result from unofficial or DIY alterations
• Leaks caused by falling debris
• Wildlife and pest damage

Finally, the other most common roofing warranty is an extended manufacturer’s warranty. Top manufacturers with state-of-the-art products offer comprehensive coverage, providing long-term protection on their roofing systems when installed by authorized contractors.

Most extended warranties include additional costs and are only available when installed by officially certified contractors according to the manufacturer’s requirements. These warranties cover all aspects of your roof, from ice and water barriers to underlayment and soffit and ridge vents.

Standard manufacturer warranties may be offered for 5, 10, or 20 years, but extended warranties typically are extendable for much longer and include replacement, labor, and disposal costs. Extended warranties may not be available for all roof types, so take the time to learn about your contractor’s warranty options before investing.

When investing in a new roofing system, taking the time to research the ideal material type and learn about the warranties available to you is essential. A roof is a significant investment and provides protection and structural stability for you and your property. To make the most informed choice, consider factors such as your area’s climate, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

Different materials come with unique warranty options, including prorated and non-prorated coverage, which can significantly impact your long-term financial planning. Before choosing a material and warranty, make sure you take the time to read through the warranty completely and bring your questions and concerns to the attention of your contractor. Top of Form

Once you’ve chosen your warranty and roofing materials, there are a few basic steps you should follow to optimize your protection and get the most out of your warranty. From hiring certified contractors to maintaining communication with your warranty provider, here are a few ways to optimize your coverage:

• Choose high-quality materials and a certified contractor
• Schedule regular roof inspections
• Address maintenance needs seasonally
• Keep records of your maintenance
• Only use authorized repair services
• Familiarize yourself with warranty claim procedures

If you’re concerned about the integrity of your roof or you’re interested in upgrading to a new roofing system, you should get in touch with the team at %COMPANY%. As seasoned roofers, we have an extensive portfolio of previous work and will happily schedule you for a friendly consultation to discuss your options.

Call %PHONE1% to connect with our team and learn more about our roofing services today.