Understanding Different Types of Roofing Warranties
Getting a new roof installed is a significant investment in your home. Therefore, it’s crucial to make sure you understand the different types of roofing warranties available to protect that investment. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common types of roofing warranties and what they cover.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
A manufacturer’s warranty covers the roofing materials used in your project. The duration of the warranty typically ranges from 20 to 50 years, depending on the material and manufacturer. Manufacturer’s warranties will guarantee that the materials are free from defects or premature failure. If any problems arise due to manufacturing issues, the manufacturer will cover the cost of repair or replacement, including labor and materials.
Prorated Warranty
A prorated warranty is a type of manufacturer’s warranty that provides coverage based on the age of the roof. The warranty coverage starts at 100% and decreases over time as the roof gets older. For example, a prorated warranty for a 30-year roofing system may provide full coverage for the first 10 years, and then provide decreased coverage for years 11-30. It’s essential to read the warranty carefully and understand the terms and conditions, including the requirements for routine maintenance, to ensure coverage.
Workmanship Warranty
A workmanship warranty covers the installation of the roofing system. It guarantees the quality of the installation and the workmanship involved. The duration of a workmanship warranty varies among contractors, but most will typically provide warranties that last between 1 and 10 years. Workmanship warranties protect homeowners against any installation errors, such as leaks or flashing problems. If any issues arise due to poor workmanship, the contractor is responsible for repairs or replacement at no cost to the homeowner.
Manufacturer’s vs. Workmanship Warranty
It’s crucial to understand the difference between a manufacturer’s warranty and a workmanship warranty. The manufacturer’s warranty covers the roofing materials used in the project, while the workmanship warranty covers the quality of the installation. If there is a problem with the materials, the manufacturer’s warranty covers the replacement, and if there is a problem with the installation, the workmanship warranty should cover repairs. It’s vital to work with a reputable contractor who provides both a manufacturer’s warranty and a workmanship warranty for added protection.
Extended Warranty
Some manufacturers offer extended warranties that provide additional coverage for your roofing system. The extended warranty typically includes the same coverage as the manufacturer’s warranty and may provide additional coverage against damages not covered by the standard warranty. The duration of an extended warranty varies among manufacturers but can last up to 50 years. It’s essential to read the terms and conditions of the extended warranty carefully, as there may be exclusions or requirements for routine maintenance.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of roofing warranties available can help homeowners make informed decisions when selecting roofing materials and contractors. It’s essential to read the warranty carefully and understand the terms and conditions to ensure coverage. Working with a reputable contractor who provides both a manufacturer’s warranty and a workmanship warranty can provide added protection and peace of mind for your roofing investment.
FAQs
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What does a manufacturer’s warranty cover?
A manufacturer’s warranty covers the roofing materials used in the project and guarantees that the materials are free from defects or premature failure. If any problems arise due to manufacturing issues, the manufacturer will cover the cost of repair or replacement, including labor and materials.
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What does a workmanship warranty cover?
A workmanship warranty covers the installation of the roofing system and guarantees the quality of the installation and workmanship involved. If any installation errors arise, such as leaks or flashing problems, the contractor is responsible for repairs or replacement at no cost to the homeowner.
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What is a prorated warranty?
A prorated warranty is a type of manufacturer’s warranty that provides coverage based on the age of the roof. The warranty coverage starts at 100% and decreases over time. It’s essential to read the warranty carefully and understand the terms and conditions to ensure coverage.
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What is an extended warranty?