We get it – your roof is a crucial part of your house, and you want to make sure it’s protected. That’s where roof warranties come into play. But what exactly is covered in a roof warranty, and how can you ensure your investment is safeguarded? In this homeowner’s guide, we’ll break down the ins and outs of roof warranties, so grab a comfy seat and let’s dive in!
Inside this blog:
- A rundown of roof warranty basics
- What’s typically covered in a standard roof warranty
- 5 things to look for in a roof warranty
Keep reading to discover what’s covered in a roof warranty and how different warranties can protect your home!
Roof Warranty Basics
Before we delve into the details, let’s start with the basics. A roof warranty is a written agreement between you (the homeowner) and the roofing manufacturer or installer. It outlines the terms and conditions regarding what is covered, for how long, and what actions to take in case of issues. Here are some key points to remember:
Types of Warranties
There are typically two main types of roof warranties: manufacturer warranties and contractor warranties. Manufacturer warranties cover the roofing materials themselves, while contractor warranties cover the installation workmanship.
Coverage Duration
Roof warranties can vary in duration, but they typically range from 10 to 30 years. Some high-quality roofing materials even come with lifetime warranties.
Transferable vs. Non-Transferrable
Check whether your warranty is transferable if you plan to sell your home. A transferable warranty can add value to your property.
What’s Typically Covered in a Roof Warranty?
Now, let’s break down what is commonly covered in a standard roof warranty:
- Material Defects: Manufacturer warranties usually cover defects in the roofing materials, such as shingle delamination or premature cracking.
- Workmanship: Contractor warranties typically cover the workmanship involved in the roof installation. A roof workmanship warranty ensures that the roof is installed correctly and according to industry standards.
- Waterproofing: Most roof warranties will cover leaks caused by faulty materials or workmanship, as long as they occur within the warranty period.
- Wind Damage: Many warranties include coverage for wind damage, but be sure to check the wind speed thresholds specified in your warranty.
- Algae Resistance: Some warranties cover issues related to algae growth on the roof’s surface.
- Transferability: As mentioned earlier, transferable warranties are valuable, allowing you to pass on the coverage if you sell your home within the warranty period.
What Might NOT Be Covered?
While roof warranties offer valuable protection, it’s equally essential to understand what might not be covered:
- Acts of Nature: Damage caused by extreme weather events like hurricanes, earthquakes, or tornadoes might not be covered. You may need additional insurance for such situations, so it’s essential to review your homeowner’s insurance policy alongside your roof warranty to ensure comprehensive protection.
- Neglect or Maintenance: If you neglect regular roof maintenance or fail to address issues promptly, your warranty may be voided, underscoring the importance of a proactive approach to roof care and inspections.
- Unauthorized Repairs: Making repairs or modifications to your roof without manufacturer or contractor approval can void the warranty, emphasizing the necessity of consulting with professionals before undertaking any DIY roofing projects.
- Improper Installation: If your roof was not installed by a certified contractor or was not installed according to manufacturer specifications, warranty coverage may be compromised, highlighting the need for thorough research when selecting a roofing contractor to ensure proper installation and warranty validity.
Maintenance Tasks to Keep Your Roof Healthy
To maximize the benefits of your roof warranty, regular maintenance is key. Here’s a checklist of maintenance tasks to consider:
- Inspect Your Roof Annually: Schedule an annual roof inspection by a professional to identify and address potential issues early.
- Clean Your Gutters: Clear debris and leaves from your gutters to prevent water buildup and potential damage to your roof.
- Trim Trees: Trim overhanging branches to prevent damage from falling limbs and debris.
- Address Moss and Algae: If you notice algae or moss growth on your roof, address it promptly to prevent damage and potential warranty issues.
- Check for Loose Shingles: Keep an eye out for loose or damaged shingles and replace them as needed.
Roof Warranty Checklist: 5 Things to Look For
Before signing any roofing contract or accepting a warranty, make sure to go through this checklist to ensure you’re getting comprehensive coverage in case you ever need repairs or a roof replacement.
1. Coverage Details
Understand what is covered and for how long. Check if it’s a manufacturer’s warranty or contractor roofing warranty, and make sure you have a clear understanding of any limitations or special conditions associated with the coverage.
2. Transferability
Determine if the standard roofing warranty can be transferred if you sell your home, as a transferable warranty can be a valuable selling point and asset when you decide to move.
3. Exclusions
Be aware of any specific exclusions, such as acts of nature or neglect, as they can help you proactively address potential gaps in your roof’s protection.
4. Maintenance Requirements
Find out what maintenance tasks are required to maintain warranty coverage, and create a maintenance schedule to ensure you meet these requirements and keep your warranty valid.
5. Claim Process
Familiarize yourself with the process of filing a claim and what documentation is required, so that in the event of an issue, you can swiftly and efficiently navigate the claims process with all the necessary information at hand.
Protect Your Roof Investment With a Roof Warranty
In a nutshell, a roof warranty is your safety net for one of the most critical parts of your home. Understanding what is covered in a roof warranty and being proactive with maintenance can help you get the most out of this valuable protection. So, whether you’re getting a new roof or currently have one, take the time to review your warranty and ensure your investment is safeguarded.
Contact our expert contractors at Kingfisher Roofing for top-notch customer services and dedicated workmanship. We’ll make sure your home or business is protected with a beautiful and resilient roof!
