Roof Warranties: The Need To Know for Homeowners

A new roofing system is a significant investment. You want to protect this purchase with a high-quality warranty that can extend to cover various unexpected issues. Roof warranties provide key financial protection for repairs and replacements, helping preserve your wallet when the worst-case scenario actually occurs.

While you may not realize it, these programs come in many varieties. While one manufacturer may offer a lifetime guarantee on all defects, another may only cover 20% of the repair costs after 10 years. Below, our crew from Elite Remodeling Services in Minnesota will walk you through warranty coverage options so you’re equipped to make the best decision for your home.

The Importance of Roofing Warranties

A roof warranty provides coverage for out-of-pocket expenses arising from system defects. If the materials suffer issues from a faulty installation, worker errors, or defects, the contract can cover the cost of the necessary repairs or replacements, ultimately protecting you from unnecessary financial burdens in the future. These guarantees often display higher quality materials and craftsmanship as manufacturers and installation teams offering premier warranties are often more confident in their results.

Common Types of Warranty Programs for Roofing Systems

The main types of programs covering roofing systems typically include the following:

A manufacturer warranty: The manufacturer warranty comes from the company producing the materials, and it covers material defects for a specified period of time. These offerings might have a varied warranty duration and typically come with roof maintenance requirements. If the materials fail, the manufacturer may replace them at no cost.
Workmanship coverage: Some contractors offer their own roof warranties, which will cover any costs associated with faulty repairs or installations. For example, if your system was installed incorrectly and suffers a leak, the manufacturer likely won’t cover pay for the damage, but the contractor might.
A transferable warranty: A transferable program can be passed between owners, which happens quite frequently with roofing systems when homeowners buy and sell properties. When manufacturers or contractors offer transferable clauses, you can advertise this to potential buyers as a selling feature.

Understanding the Limitations, Terms, Conditions, and Exclusions of Your Warranty

Most roof warranties come with various limitations, terms, and conditions. Here’s what you should know:

Exclusions and limitations: Providers often will not cover all damages or defects. Exclusions might include damage related to extreme weather or faulty repairs conducted by unlicensed technicians.
Maintenance requirements: These contracts usually require you to conduct routine maintenance to keep your warranty valid. If you fail to schedule annual inspections, you might void your contract.
Repair requirements: Your terms may also state that you must have all repairs done by specific preferred technicians. Any repair work conducted by non-verified contractors could void the protection.

Basic Coverage Durations To Expect

Roof warranties vary in duration. Basic coverage usually extends up to 10 years, but some providers offer extended programs for up to 50 years or lifetime options for unlimited protection.

Along with duration terms, you may find that some contracts are prorated, meaning the potential reimbursement value decreases over time. For example, after 10 years, you might only be eligible for compensation of 20% of the total repairs. You can still find non-prorated warranties, but you must read the fine print carefully.

Do You Need Help Making an Informed Decision on Your Roof Repair or Replacement?

Now you understand how roof warranties work and their benefits. If you need help deciding on the right new system or repair for your home, you’ve come to the right place. Call Elite Remodeling Services in Minnesota today at (952) 646-2480 for your roofing needs.