A new roof is one of the most significant investments a homeowner has to make. With such a huge investment, it is important to know what type of warranty comes with your new roof. A roofing warranty, also known as a roofing guarantee, is a promise from the manufacturer or installer that the roofing material and workmanship will be free from defects for a specified period. In this article, we will discuss the different types of roofing warranties available in Mercer County, NJ and what they cover.
Types of Roofing Warranties
Manufacturer’s Warranty
A manufacturer’s warranty is just as it sounds – it covers defects in the raw materials used in the manufacture of the roofing system. This type of warranty typically lasts between 10 to 30 years, depending on the brand and quality of the roofing product. Manufacturer warranties do not cover the roofing installation or labor workmanship.
Labor Warranty
A labor warranty, also called a workmanship warranty, covers the craftsmanship of the roofing installation. This warranty can range anywhere from one to ten years, depending on the contractor’s policy. Workmanship warranties cover any issues arising from improper installation, such as leaks caused by poor flashing and inadequate ventilation.
System Warranty
System warranties are comprehensive warranties that cover both the materials and labor workmanship. These types of warranties are typically offered by the manufacturer and can last up to 50 years. System warranties cover any defects in the materials, such as shingles, as well as installation issues. System warranties are often referred to as “no-dollar-limit” or “NDL” warranties, which means that the manufacturer assumes responsibility for the entire cost of replacing or repairing the defective materials and workmanship.
What is Covered
Roofing warranties differ from one manufacturer or installer to another. Typically, the warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship and not damages resulting from natural disasters and accidents, such as hail damage or wind damage.
A manufacturer’s warranty will cover a roof that has been damaged by hail, heavy rain, high winds or any other natural factor that caused damage due to the poor quality material. However, the warranty may not cover consequential damages such as water damage that may occur due to the damaged roof.
Labor warranties only cover workmanship applied by the roofing contractor. If there’s any damage caused by natural disasters, the manufacturer’s warranty will come into play to cover the roofing system. However, if damage is caused due to improper installation by the contractor, the workmanship warranty will be the one to cover the cost of repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens if my roof fails while it is under warranty?
If your roof fails while it is under warranty, contact your contractor immediately. They will assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. If the roofing material is no longer made by the manufacturer, they will give an alternative roofing solution. It is important to note that the warranty may not cover the entire cost associated with repairing the roofing system.
Q: How much does a roofing warranty cost?
The cost of roofing warranties varies depending on the type of warranty you choose. Standard warranties that only cover manufacturing defects and workmanship issues often come free-of-charge with the roofing material and installation work. System warranties, on the other hand, cost more since they cover both the cost of materials and workmanship.
Q: Is there a way to increase the lifespan of my roofing system?
Yes, there are several things you can do to extend the lifespan of your roofing system. Regular maintenance checks, such as cleaning gutters and repairing broken shingles, can help to prevent issues from developing. Roof inspections by a qualified roofing contractor can ensure that your roof does not have any undetected issues that may pose a problem down the line. Lastly, installing proper ventilation and insulation can help to prevent problems with moisture, which can lead to damage and shorten the lifespan of your roof.
Conclusion
Roofing warranties are essential to protect your home’s investment. It is important to understand what is covered under the warranty, the types of warranties available, and how the warranty works. Understanding roofing warranties can help you determine the right type of warranty to choose to ensure that your roofing system lasts as long as possible.