It’s a common story: a homeowner invests in a beautiful new roof, feeling good about their choice. But when a problem unexpectedly pops up, panic sets in. What do those warranty papers actually mean? Many homeowners aren’t clear on what their roofing warranties cover, which can lead to scrambles for solutions or paying for repairs that should have been covered.
You should understand exactly what protection you have. That’s why we’re breaking down roofing warranties – so you can feel confident when you get your new roof, not confused.
This guide will help you understand:
- The differences between material and workmanship warranties.
- What’s typically included (and for how long).
- How to get better coverage.
- And, importantly, what actions could accidentally void your protection.
Material vs. Workmanship Warranties
When you get a new roof, it generally comes with two distinct types of warranties, or a single combined type. Understanding the difference helps you know what you’re protected against.
- Material Warranties
- What It Is: This warranty comes directly from the manufacturer. Its job is to cover defects in the materials themselves. That may include shingles that prematurely crack, blister, or lose their protective granules due to a flaw in how they were made.
- The Catch: Many shingles come with a “limited lifetime” or 30-year warranty. However, after an initial period (often around 10 years), the manufacturer’s coverage value starts to decrease annually. This means if a defect occurs in year 15, they might only cover a smaller percentage of the new material cost.
- Coverage Scope: A material warranty from one manufacturer only covers their specific products. If your roof uses components from different brands, you’ll have separate (and potentially varying) material warranties.
- Workmanship Warranties
- What It Is: This is the warranty provided by your chosen roofing contractor. If your roof leaks or materials fail because they were installed incorrectly (e.g., improper nailing, faulty flashing installation), this is what protects you.
- Why It Matters: Even the best materials can fail if not installed properly. A workmanship warranty shows your contractor is confident in their team’s skills.
- What to Look For: The length can vary significantly, from as little as 1-2 years to 10, 25, or even a “lifetime” (often meaning the expected life of the materials). A reputable contractor who is confident in their work should have no issue offering a substantial warranty period.
Enhanced and Full System Warranties
Want better coverage than a standard, prorated material warranty? Look for a Full System Warranty.
- What It Is: Many leading manufacturers offer enhanced material warranties when you install a complete roofing system using all their compatible components (shingles, underlayment, starter strips, ridge caps, ventilation).
- Benefits: These often have longer non-prorated coverage. This means if a covered component fails during that non-prorated period, the manufacturer covers the full replacement cost, including materials and labor.
- Requirements: To qualify, your roofing contractor usually needs to be certified to install those specific systems and offer premium warranties.
What Can Accidentally Void Your Roofing Warranties?
Your warranty is a contract, and certain actions can render it useless, leaving you unprotected.
- Improper Installation: If the roof isn’t installed according to the manufacturer’s exact specifications. (Another reason to choose a certified, experienced contractor.)
- Incorrectly Installed Additions: Satellite dishes, solar panels, or even holiday decorations, if not installed and sealed properly, can negate your warranty.
- Pressure Washing: This can strip away granules and damage shingles, a definite warranty voider for most asphalt shingles.
- Unapproved Repairs or Alterations: Using a non-certified roofer for repairs or making unapproved changes can jeopardize your existing coverage.
- Layering Shingles: Installing new shingles over an old layer (a “roof-over”) might be cheaper upfront, but can void warranties and trap moisture.
Choosing the Right Roofing Company
Understanding roofing warranties doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated. The right roofing company will break it down clearly, so you know exactly what to expect and how to get the most from your coverage.
Ready for clear answers about your roofing needs and warranty options? Contact Bachman’s Roofing today to learn more about what to expect from a GAF-certified roofing company.
