EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT ROOF WARRANTIES

Your roof is a big investment that protects your entire home. Roof warranties provide a way to protect that investment and ensure that you don’t have to pay out of pocket for covered damages and other issues. The following provides a closer look at what you should know about roof warranties.

WHAT IS A ROOF WARRANTY?

A roof warranty is a type of insurance policy that covers repairs or replacement of roofing materials. It covers damage due to manufacturing defects, wear and tear, or extreme weather. It also covers additional expenses, such as labor costs incurred while repairing or replacing the roof. These warranties are available for roof types like asphalt shingles, metal, and flat roofs.

A homeowner purchases a roof warranty from the roof manufacturer upon installation. The warranty lasts for a specified period, during which the manufacturer covers any needed repairs. Some warranties include coverage for damages caused by specific storms, such as hail or wind damage. Before purchasing a guarantee for your roof, research the different coverage options available. Ensure you understand what they cover and for how long. Additionally, read the fine print to know the specific repairs covered and what you must pay out-of-pocket in case of an issue.

HOW CAN YOU CHECK IF YOUR ROOF IS WARRANTIED?

Check the warranty offered upon selecting a roofing brand and an installation contractor. Determine the manufacturer’s requirements for registering your warranty. Authorized contractors handling your roof should register their warranty with the manufacturer within a specific timeframe. Avoid the headache that comes with roof warranties when filing a claim in the future by double-checking the requirements. If you are buying a house, you will need valid certifications to prove eligibility for a warranty.

When registering for a roofing warranty, work with knowledgeable professionals. They will provide the necessary advice and guidance. Carefully review all the terms and conditions of the warranty before signing any contracts. It gives an in-depth view of what it covers and what it doesn’t cover. Manufacturers may not cover certain materials under warranty. You need to know this before purchasing roof materials. Finally, check if the warranty is transferrable to a new homeowner if you sell your home. These steps guarantee homeowners of complete protection against damage to their roofing system.

TYPES OF ROOFING WARRANTIES

When selecting a roofing material and contractor, consider three main types of roof warranties. Manufacturer warranties, contractor labor warranties, and extended service agreements.

MANUFACTURER WARRANTY

A manufacturer warranty is an insurance policy offered by roofing material manufacturers. It protects against defects in their materials or products. This warranty covers repairs or replacement of the roof due to normal wear and tear, extreme weather, or manufacturing defects. They are valid for a certain period and include coverage for damages caused by particular storms.

The degree of protection you receive from a roof warranty depends on the manufacturer and the type of coverage they offer. When selecting a roofing material and contractor, research what type of warranty coverage is available.

Manufacturer warranties are transferable to new homeowners. Warranty transfer is on condition that the roof is in good shape and within the warranty period. It is an attractive option for prospective homebuyers because it reduces concerns over costly repairs or replacements.

CONTRACTOR LABOR WARRANTY

A contractor labor warranty is an insurance policy offered by roofing contractors. It covers labor costs while installing the roof or making needed repairs. A roofing contractor’s workmanship warranty lasts between one to five years. This type of warranty provides homeowners coverage against faulty or improper roof installation.

The warranty length will depend on the agreement between the homeowner and the contractor. You should read and understand the terms and conditions before signing any contracts. It provides peace of mind that the company you have hired is accountable for any workmanship problems.

EXTENDED SERVICE AGREEMENT

An extended service agreement provides coverage beyond the manufacturer and contractor labor warranties. It covers repairs for damage by circumstances beyond the manufacturer’s or contractor’s control. Research the coverage each extended service agreement provides before signing up for one. They vary in price and scope.

Most roofers offer limited warranties on their work. You should not hire any other contractor to work on your roof or risk voiding your warranty. Asphalt roofs come with a lifespan of around 25 to 30 years. Contractor warranties for these roofs range between five to 10 years. However, you can negotiate the terms with your contractor to award an extended warranty at an extra cost. Extended warranties cost far less than roof replacements, with some contractors offering as many as 25, 30, or 40 years of coverage. Contractors preserve extended warranties for high-end products such as metal roofs or slate.

5 WAYS YOU CAN VOID A ROOFING WARRANTY

In order to keep your roof warranty valid, there are some things that you should and shouldn’t do. All of the following are ways to void the warranty on your roof.

1. FAILING TO INSTALL THE ROOF CORRECTLY ACCORDING TO MANUFACTURER INSTRUCTIONS

Many manufacturers provide detailed instructions for installing their roofs, and failing to comply with these instructions can invalidate a warranty. The installer should be familiar with and follow all relevant installation guidelines precisely.

2. NOT SCHEDULING REGULAR MAINTENANCE

Regular inspections and roof maintenance are necessary if your warranty is to take effect. Minor problems can become bigger without proper inspections, and the warranty may not cover them. Schedule regular maintenance with a certified roofing company and follow their advice.

3. NOT REPLACING DAMAGED COMPONENTS

If any of the roof’s components become damaged, they should be replaced immediately. This includes broken shingles or tiles and worn flashing materials. Failing to repair or replace these can lead to more serious damage and void the warranty.

4. USING NON-APPROVED MATERIALS

Not all roof materials are approved by all manufacturers, and using these can void a warranty. For example, using shingles not supplied by the manufacturer or using inferior fasteners can invalidate warranty coverage. Ensure the roof’s components are approved before installation.

5. NOT FILING CLAIMS PROMPTLY

Most warranties require contacting the manufacturer within a specific timeframe of when an issue is noticed. Some manufacturers also require that any claims be filed within a specified period after installation.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL ROOFING TEAM

Roof work is integral to home maintenance since it helps protect the home from the elements. However, even minor DIY roof repairs can be dangerous and lead to costly mistakes. It is always best to hire a professional roofer for any roofing project, large or small. Professional roofers have experience and training, enabling them to identify and fix potential problems. They also have access to the right tools and materials to complete the job correctly.

If you are a resident of Romeo, MI, or the surrounding area, let Paramount Roofing be your go-to roofing company. We offer roof inspections and warranties to ensure your roof is in the best condition. Our team of experts will inspect each shingle, flashing, and gutter component to make sure there are no signs of damage or wear. We will then provide a detailed report outlining any aspects of your roof that need repairs or maintenance. If necessary, we will provide you with a warranty to cover potential future expenses due to roofing damage. In addition to providing roofing repairs, inspections, and replacements, our team offers services related to siding, skylights, gutters, and insulation. Contact us today for more information or to set up an appointment.