One of the bonuses of having your roof replaced is getting a warranty for your new roofing materials. If you’ve never dealt with a roof warranty before, they can be a bit confusing. What do you need to know about roof warranties and how they work?

What Roof Warranties Cover

There are two general types of roof warranties. The first comes from the manufacturer of the roofing materials and the second comes from the contractor who did the roof installation.

  • A roofing-material-only warranty is the minimal protection offered by the manufacturer. This type of warranty only covers roofing materials if there is a manufacturing defect or the material starts deteriorating prematurely. The warranty only covers the cost of replacement materials, no labor.
  • A labor-only warranty usually comes from the installer and only covers the labor portion of repairs. It doesn’t cover the cost of materials.
  • A workmanship warranty covers the costs of repairing a roof damaged by poor workmanship. This covers both repair materials and labor.
  • A full system warranty covers both materials and labor related to a covered repair on the entire roof. These warranties usually have specific terms and conditions which govern what is covered.

FAQs About Warranties

Who do I call if I need warranty work done?

Contact the roofing contractor who installed the roof. Most warranty repairs are related to installation, not manufacturing defects.

How long does a warranty last?

A manufacturer’s warranty can last 15 years up to a lifetime. A contractor’s warranty period will also vary. Ask before you get the roof installed.

Can a roof warranty transfer to a new owner if I sell my home?

Many roof warranties are transferable upon sale. However, some aren’t. You need to read the warranty documentation to know if yours is transferable.

Does a contractor’s experience and certifications affect roof warranties?

Some roofing manufacturers, such as GAF, have certification programs for contractors using their materials. To become certified, the contractor must pass stringent guidelines on reputation, training, and experience.

The Bottom Line

How do you know if your roof warranty is a good one? Work with a local contractor with proven experience and industry certifications. This will ensure the materials are from reputable companies and that the workmanship is professional.

Contact AIC Roofing & Construction today. We are proud to be a GAF Master Elite Contractor.

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