Types of Roofing Warranties

Roofing warranties are essential to protect your investment in a new roof. They come in various types, and each type provides different levels of coverage. A warranty is a contract between you and the manufacturer or installer of the roof that outlines what is covered and for how long. In this article, we will discuss the different types of roofing warranties and what they cover.

1. Manufacturer’s Warranty: A manufacturer’s warranty is one of the most common types of roofing warranties. It typically covers defects in the materials used to manufacture the roof. The duration of the warranty depends on the manufacturer, but it usually ranges from 10 to 50 years. This warranty does not cover installation or labor costs, so if there is a problem with the installation, you will need to pay for it out of pocket.
2. Installer’s Warranty: An installer’s warranty is a warranty provided by the roofing company that installed your roof. This type of warranty usually covers the labor and installation costs. It typically lasts from one to five years and is less comprehensive than a manufacturer’s warranty.
3. Material Only Warranty: A material-only warranty covers defects in the roofing materials but does not cover any labor costs for installation. It is typically a shorter-term warranty that lasts for up to 10 years.
4. Labor Only Warranty: A labor-only warranty covers the installation of the roof, but not the materials. This type of warranty is typically shorter than a material warranty, usually lasting from one to five years.
5. System Warranty: A system warranty covers both the materials and installation of the roof. This type of warranty is typically provided by the manufacturer and the installer and offers comprehensive coverage. The duration of a system warranty can range from 10 to 50 years.
6. NDL (No Dollar Limit) Warranty: An NDL warranty provides the highest level of coverage available. This type of warranty covers the full cost of any repairs or replacement, including labor and materials. However, it is typically only offered by a few manufacturers and is more expensive than other types of warranties.
7. Prorated Warranty: A prorated warranty is a warranty that reduces in coverage over time. For example, a 20-year prorated warranty may offer full coverage for the first 10 years and then partial coverage for the remaining 10 years.
8. Transferable Warranty: A transferable warranty allows the warranty to be transferred to a new homeowner if the property is sold. This type of warranty can add value to your home and is often seen as a selling point.
9. Limited Warranty: A limited warranty is a warranty that restricts the coverage provided. For example, a limited warranty may only cover certain types of damage or only cover the roof if it is installed in a certain way.
10. Exclusionary Warranty: An exclusionary warranty is a warranty that lists the specific things that are not covered. For example, an exclusionary warranty may not cover damage caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes or hurricanes.

In conclusion, when selecting a roofing warranty, it is important to understand the different types available and what each type covers. Make sure to read the fine print and ask questions before making a decision. A warranty is an investment in your home, so make sure to choose the right one to protect your investment.