When it comes to roofing, a new installation or replacement can be a significant investment. Not only do you want to ensure that the job is done properly and with high-quality materials, but you also want peace of mind knowing that you’re protected in the event of any issues. This is where roofing warranty coverage comes into play. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into roofing warranty coverage and what you need to know.
What is Roofing Warranty Coverage?
Roofing warranty coverage is a type of protection that covers defects in materials and workmanship during the installation or replacement of a roof. Most roofing warranties cover a range of issues that could arise, such as leaks, blow-offs, and other defects that occur due to poor installation or manufacturing.
Roofing warranties can vary in length and coverage, depending on the type of warranty and the roofing contractor you work with. It’s important to carefully review the warranty before agreeing to any roofing installation or replacement to ensure that you understand what is and isn’t covered.
Types of Roofing Warranties
There are several types of roofing warranties available, each with its own level of coverage and protection. Here are some of the most common types of roofing warranties you may encounter:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: A manufacturer’s warranty is issued by the manufacturer of the roofing materials and covers defects in the materials themselves. This type of warranty usually covers a period of 20-50 years and is often prorated, meaning that the coverage decreases over time.
- Workmanship Warranty: A workmanship warranty covers any issues that arise due to errors or mistakes made during the installation or replacement of the roof. This type of warranty usually covers a period of 1-10 years.
- System Warranty: A system warranty covers both the materials and workmanship of the roofing system as a whole. This type of warranty usually covers a period of 10-30 years.
- Extended Warranty: An extended warranty is an optional upgrade that extends the coverage of a manufacturer’s warranty or workmanship warranty. This type of warranty usually adds an additional 10-20 years of coverage.
What Does Roofing Warranty Coverage Typically Include?
Roofing warranty coverage typically includes protection against defects in materials and workmanship. Here are some common issues that may be covered under a roofing warranty:
- Leaks: If your roof leaks due to poor installation or defective materials, your warranty may cover the cost of repairs.
- Blow-offs: If shingles or other roofing materials blow off due to poor installation, your warranty may cover the cost of replacement.
- Ponding water: If your roof has areas where water pools and doesn’t drain properly, your warranty may cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Shrinkage: If your roof materials shrink and crack due to poor installation or manufacturing defects, your warranty may cover the cost of replacement.
What Isn’t Covered by Roofing Warranty Coverage?
While roofing warranties do provide valuable protection, it’s important to note that not everything is covered. Here are some things that are typically not covered by roofing warranty coverage:
- Acts of God: Many warranties do not cover damage caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or earthquakes.
- Neglect or Abuse: If you neglect to maintain your roof properly or abuse it by walking on it excessively or storing heavy objects on it, your warranty may be voided.
- Poor Ventilation: If your roof is damaged due to poor ventilation, your warranty may not cover the cost of repairs.
- Improper Installation: If you choose to work with an inexperienced or unlicensed roofing contractor, any defects or issues that arise may not be covered by your warranty.
How to Ensure Your Roofing Warranty is Valid
To ensure that your roofing warranty remains valid, there are a few things you can do:
- Choose a reputable roofing contractor: The quality of the installation is a significant factor in the longevity and effectiveness of your roof. Choosing a reputable contractor with experience and proper licensing can help ensure that your roof is installed correctly and that your warranty will be valid.
- Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning gutters and inspecting your roof for damage, can help prevent issues from arising and ensure that your warranty remains valid.
- Proper ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential to the longevity of your roof. Ensuring that your roof has adequate ventilation can help prevent issues such as moisture buildup and prevent your warranty from being voided.
- Keep records: Keep detailed records of any maintenance or repairs performed on your roof. This can help provide proof of proper maintenance and can be valuable in the event of a warranty claim.
Conclusion
Roofing warranty coverage is an essential aspect of any roofing installation or replacement. It provides peace of mind and protection against defects in materials and workmanship that can arise over time. When choosing a roofing contractor, it’s important to carefully review the warranty to understand what is and isn’t covered. With proper maintenance and care, you can ensure that your roofing warranty remains valid and provides the protection you need.