Mastering the Basics of Roof Warranties

Your roof stands as a devout guardian, shielding you and your loved ones from the elements year-round; But what if unforeseen events challenge its strength and reliability? Though we can only hope as homeowners that we never see our precious living spaces under destruction, the reality is it happens sometimes, and if it does, being prepared is essential! Enter the world of roof warranties—a crucial defense providing you with the assurance and protection your home deserves.

Now, it’s no secret that warranties are a little tricky. The lines can often blur with so many elements seemingly coming into play to determine what you qualify for. Think of it like this- a roof warranty is like a promise, or a commitment, from the manufacturer or installer that your roof will withstand the tests of time and weather. 

When an unexpected incident happens to your roofing system, it’s only natural to simmer in questions and concerns. If you’ve scoured the web seeking a source for all your roof warranty questions, look no further than RoofCrafters! We’ve helped homeowners like you navigate roof warranties for over 3 decades, and we know how crucial it is to learn everything you can about what to do for your home during times of uncertainty. Your roof is the ultimate protector, and equipping you with the knowledge to be a prepared homeowner is one of our top priorities. 

That being said, In this guide, we embark on an adventure into the world of roof warranties. Whether you're a homeowner, buyer, or curious explorer, this is your go-to resource! We'll uncover the nuances of different types of warranties, simplify industry lingo, and equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate the realm of roofing warranties confidently. By the time you finish, you’ll have the knowledge it takes to confidently handle the basics of your warranty. Let’s get started!

When you work with RoofCrafters, you can anticipate GAF's offer of standard manufacturer's warranties from 25-30 years (Royal Sovereign and Marquis WeatherMax) up to a “lifetime” (Timberline and Designer shingles).

A manufacturer's warranty spans 20-50 years, including roofing materials (like shingles or metal) and underlayment. Opting for a material-only warranty means the manufacturer pledges to replace deteriorating shingles or metal within the warranty period. However, be eagle-eyed with the details – most material-only warranties start to prorate after 5 or 10 years, contingent on the materials and brand. A pro-rated material warranty functions on a sliding scale of coverage and works off the age of the roof. As your roof ages, you can claim less money for repairs or replacements. If your roof has a 50-year pro-rated warranty, but you have problems 15 years later, the warranty will cover the prorated period. The first 10 years are non-prorated with most shingles.

On the other hand, a workmanship warranty revolves around the quality of installation. If your roof springs a leak shortly after installation, it often hints at poor workmanship. A labor-only warranty means the roofing company will fix leaks after installation, while the full-system (extended) warranty covers both labor and material issues.

Manufacturers warranties typically include coverage for items such as shingles, underlayments, flashings, and other materials utilized in roof installation. Full-system warranties encompass the entire expense of repairing leaks, covering both labor and materials. Consequently, this warranty type holds a higher price tag compared to either material-only or labor-only warranties. Yet, the peace of mind it provides is truly invaluable!

GAF offers a 25-year warranty for their Royal Sovereign shingles through RoofCrafters. GAF accessories are also covered under a 25-year warranty as long as you choose a shingle that doesn't come with lifetime coverage.

If you purchase shingles with a lifetime warranty and sell your home, you can transfer that warranty to the new owner. It's common for the next owner to live there for about eight years. Surprisingly, the shingles might still be in good condition even after 16 to 24 years! Sharing is caring!

These warranties cover the cost of fixing problems that occur during the installation process like external roof damage. Some even cover damage inside your home or to your belongings. This means that if your roof materials fail because of improper installation, your roofer is responsible for making it right. 

*Note that these warranties don’t cover certain issues, like damage from storms or if someone changed the roof after it was installed. They also don’t cover foot traffic damage, leaks from tree branches, or things like ice dams causing water damage.*

It’s not just about the warranty, though. It’s also about how good the contractor is. Factors like how long they've been around, if they do great work, and if they care about their customers matter a lot more than just what warranty they promise. So, if you're thinking about hiring someone to fix your roof, make sure to check them out really well before you decide! Ensure you choose the right roofer with our RoofCrafters Top 10 Roofer Checklist.

While there’s no way to tell you exactly how much a roof warranty would cost without knowing the specifics, there are multiple factors that contribute to the final price of one. What are they?

This is where it gets just a bit tricky- every warranty is different, and what's covered/not covered is crucial for you to know as a homeowner. What isn’t covered for you may be covered for your friends or neighbors, so learning the warranty you choose and seeking advice from your roofer is key. 

A common concern is whether or not roof warranties cover hail damage. Unless the manufacturer's materials warranty says so, it won't cover hail damage. But your homeowner's insurance might help cover the cost if hail causes damage. However, some insurance companies won’t cover it on purpose to lessen what they have to pay.

GAF offers a lifetime warranty for its designer shingles installed by RoofCrafters, accompanied with a 10 to 50-year Smart Choice protection period and a 15-year wind warranty term. 

You can avoid this all together by choosing a reputable contractor, like RoofCrafters, from the beginning. Always do your research when vetting roofing companies - the fate of your warranty contract (and your roof!) depends on it. 

So, will a roof warranty benefit you and your home? Absolutely, but keep this in mind- no matter how the warranty is worded, it isn’t worth a dime if the roofing company goes bankrupt. You should thoroughly research any roofing company before you sign that dotted line! 

You want to know how your contractor will handle problems if they arise because it’s a great indicator of how trustworthy they are. The last thing you need is someone taking advantage of you, so do as much digging as possible and carefully review those terms and conditions before making any commitments. Pay attention to what’s covered, the duration of coverage, exclusions or limitations, and the process for making warranty claims. Don’t be afraid to get comfortable. Remember, your roof is a huge investment all on its own. The choices you make (big and small) matter!

Whew, that was a lot of reading, but you made it! Now that you’ve journeyed through this guide, you’re armed with valuable knowledge about roof warranties. By understanding the ins and outs of them, you're equipped to make informed decisions about your home. Remember to ask questions, seek advice, and don't hesitate to consult a professional. Your home's protection matters and roof warranties play a crucial role in ensuring peace of mind!

Be sure to keep this resource handy to reference when you need it, and remember that RoofCrafters has been a trusted name in roofing for nearly thirty years! Along with having extensive industry experience, we're also a GAF certified contractor and BBB accredited. If you're ready to begin your roofing project, click the "Schedule My Inspection" button below!