When it comes to your home, one of the most important investments you can make is in your roof. After all, your roof is the first line of defense against the elements, so ensuring it’s properly covered by a solid roof warranty is essential. Navigating the fine print of roofing warranties often leaves homeowners scratching their heads in confusion. Whether you’re considering roof replacement or just want to understand your current coverage better, this guide will break down roofing warranties into simple terms.
What is a standard roofing warranty?
A standard roofing warranty serves as a safety net, offered either by the manufacturer of the roofing materials or the contractor responsible for installation, or sometimes both. Its main goal is to safeguard homeowners from potential issues like faulty materials or installation errors. With this warranty in place, homeowners gain reassurance that if something goes wrong, they won’t be left footing the entire bill for repairs or replacements.
While most warranties include coverage for the roofing materials themselves, the specifics, such as duration and what’s actually covered, can vary widely. Material warranties, typically provided by the manufacturer, focus on defects in products like shingles or tiles, ensuring that any failure not caused by external damage or misuse is taken care of.
. These warranties might range from 20 to 50 years, and some even offer lifetime coverage.
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Understanding the 3 Main Types of Roofing Warranties
There are three main types of roofing warranties that homeowners should understand:
- Material Warranty
This type of warranty comes directly from the manufacturer and specifically protects against flaws in the roofing materials, like defective shingles or tiles. If the materials fail because of a manufacturing defect, the warranty typically covers the cost to replace those materials. However, it’s important to note that labor expenses for removing and reinstalling the faulty components are usually not included in this coverage.
- Tip: Be sure to review the fine print of your material warranty. Some warranties offer full coverage for the first few years and then move to prorated coverage, which decreases the value of the coverage as time goes on.
- Workmanship Warranty
This warranty is provided by your roofing contractor will have to provide this warranty, and it will also cover the installation of the roofing system. If there are issues arising from installation errors, such as leaks due to improper sealing or flashing, the contractor is responsible for the repairs.
- Tip: Workmanship warranties can range from 2 to 25 years. It’s a good idea to ensure that the contractor you hire offers a workmanship warranty and covers any installation defects.
- Tip: Workmanship warranties can range from 2 to 25 years. It’s a good idea to ensure that the contractor you hire offers a workmanship warranty and covers any installation defects.
- System Warranty
A system warranty combines both the material warranty and workmanship warranty. This type of warranty is often offered by manufacturers and contractors who work together to ensure that all components of your roofing system are properly installed and free from defects.
- Tip: System warranties offer the most comprehensive coverage, ensuring protection for both the materials and labor involved in your roof installation. Some manufacturers offer this kind of warranty for roofs that meet their installation specifications.
- Tip: System warranties offer the most comprehensive coverage, ensuring protection for both the materials and labor involved in your roof installation. Some manufacturers offer this kind of warranty for roofs that meet their installation specifications.
Wondering if it’s time for a new roof this summer? Check out our expert blog on how to know if your roof needs replacement—perfect for homeowners in Bala Cynwyd!
What Do Roofing Warranties Cover?
A good roofing warranty will cover the main components of your roofing system, but coverage can vary depending on the type of warranty you have. Here’s what you get if you choose the most common roofing warranties:
- Material Defects
Manufacturer warranties typically cover defects in materials that result in premature failure, such as shingles that curl, crack, or lose granules. However, they usually do not cover issues caused by improper installation, weather-related damage, or normal wear and tear. - Workmanship Errors
In cases where your roof has been installed incorrectly, a workmanship warranty provided by your roofing contractor acts as your safety net. This type of coverage ensures that both the labor and material expenses needed to correct the installation errors are fully taken care of, offering you protection and peace of mind. For instance, if your roof leaks due to faulty flashing or improper shingle placement, this warranty covers the cost of the repair. - Extended Protection
Some manufacturers offer extended warranties for additional coverage beyond the standard terms. This can include added protection for materials and even labor. To qualify for an extended warranty, your roofing system must typically meet specific installation standards and requirements.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roofing Warranty
When selecting a roofing system, it’s important to keep the following factors in mind:
- The reputation of your contractor: Contractors with a proven track record are more likely to offer reliable workmanship warranties. It’s essential to hire a professional roofer who is certified by the manufacturer to ensure you’re getting the full benefits of both material and workmanship warranties.
- Warranty transferability: Some warranties are transferable to new homeowners. If you plan on selling your home, this can be a valuable selling point. Always check if the warranty can be transferred, and if so, under what conditions.
- Coverage limits: Every warranty has limitations. Most roofing warranties exclude damage caused by extreme weather events like wind, hail, or tree impacts. Be sure to ask about the exclusions in your warranty and understand the limits of the protection.
Be sure to check out our blog on common roofing mistakes homeowners make after winter to help you avoid costly errors this season.
Why Choose Hynes Construction for Your Roofing Needs?
At Hynes Construction, we are committed to providing Greater Philadelphia homeowners with reliable and transparent roofing services. Our expert team works with high-quality materials and offers comprehensive roofing warranties that cover both materials and installation. With a trusted reputation in roofing services in the Greater Philadelphia area, we ensure that every project meets the highest standards of quality and safety.
Conclusion: Get the Protection Your Roof Deserves
Your roof is one of the most valuable components of your home, and safeguarding that investment starts with knowing exactly what your roofing warranty entails. Whether you’re putting on a brand-new roof or swapping out an aging one, it’s essential to dive into the details of your warranty choices to ensure you’re fully covered from the start. Hynes Construction offers a range of roofing warranties that provide peace of mind for years to come.
Contact Hynes Construction today to discuss your roofing needs and ensure that your roof is backed by comprehensive warranty coverage.
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(President, Hynes Roofing and Siding)
With over 35 years experience in the roofing and siding industry, Michelle Hynes has built a business from 2 people into over 45 people and 19 trucks!