When investing in a new roof, a warranty provides critical protection and peace of mind.
However, not all warranties are created equal.
Understanding what is covered under a roof installation warranty helps you avoid unexpected costs and ensures you get the most value from your investment.
Types of Roofing Warranties
There are generally two main types of roofing warranties:
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Manufacturer’s Warranty: Covers defects in the roofing materials themselves.
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Workmanship Warranty: Covers errors or problems that arise from the roof installation process.
Some companies also offer system warranties that bundle materials and labor coverage into one comprehensive package.
What a Manufacturer’s Warranty Typically Covers
A manufacturer’s warranty focuses on the performance of the roofing materials.
Coverage usually includes:
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Defects in shingles, tiles, or metal panels
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Premature deterioration due to manufacturing faults
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Failure of roofing underlayment or waterproof barriers
If a material defect causes your roof to fail earlier than expected, the manufacturer is responsible for replacing or repairing the defective components.
However, it’s important to note that manufacturer warranties often don’t cover problems caused by improper installation, weather events, or general wear and tear.
What a Workmanship Warranty Covers
A workmanship warranty protects you against installation errors.
This type of warranty often includes:
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Leaks due to improper installation
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Loose shingles or flashing installed incorrectly
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Poor sealing around vents, chimneys, or skylights
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Structural issues caused by incorrect installation techniques
If a problem arises because of something your installer did wrong, the workmanship warranty ensures they’ll fix it at no additional cost to you.
Common Limitations and Exclusions
It’s important to read your warranty carefully, as most will have limitations, such as:
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Storm damage exclusions: Warranties usually don’t cover damage from hail, high winds, or falling tree branches.
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Neglect or lack of maintenance: If you fail to maintain your roof (e.g., cleaning gutters or addressing minor issues), your warranty could be voided.
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Unauthorized repairs: Having repairs done by someone other than the original roof installation in Massachusetts contractor or an approved service provider can cancel your warranty coverage.
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Normal aging: Roofing materials naturally wear down over time, and general aging is typically not covered.
Always review the fine print to know exactly what’s protected.
Length of Coverage
The length of roofing warranties can vary widely:
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Manufacturer warranties often last between 20 to 50 years, depending on the materials.
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Workmanship warranties are usually shorter, ranging from 1 to 10 years.
Some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties, but these often come with specific conditions or may be prorated over time.
Transferability of Warranties
If you sell your home, a transferable warranty can be a valuable selling point.
Some roofing warranties allow you to transfer coverage to the new homeowner within a certain timeframe, sometimes for a small fee.
Make sure to ask your roofing contractor whether the warranty is transferable and what steps are required to complete the transfer.
Conclusion: Know Before You Buy
A roof installation warranty is an essential part of your roofing investment.
It protects your home, your wallet, and your peace of mind.
Before committing to a new roof, ask for detailed information about both manufacturer and workmanship warranties, and be sure you understand:
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What’s covered
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What’s not covered
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How long the coverage lasts
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Any conditions or limitations
When you know exactly what your warranty offers, you can feel confident that your home is protected for years to come.