Being a homeowner comes with a plethora of expenses, and one of the most significant investments you’ll make is in your roof. Whether it’s a roof replacement or a repair, the cost can add up quickly, which is why understanding your roof warranty is so crucial. Roof warranties are designed to protect you, but they can sometimes feel confusing and difficult to navigate. At Shull Roofing, we’ve compiled answers to 7 common questions about roof warranties and what to know about roof warranties to help you get a better grasp of what they cover, how long they last, and what you need to know to keep your home protected for the future.
1. What Are the Different Types of Roof Warranties?
Roof warranties come in different forms, and understanding their differences can help you sort through your options. You’ll often encounter three main types: manufacturer warranties, workmanship warranties, and extended warranties.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: This covers the roofing materials. If the shingles or other materials fail due to manufacturing defects, the manufacturer will swap them out. At Shull Roofing, being a Malarkey Certified contractor allows us to offer some of the best manufacturer warranties on the market.
- Workmanship Warranty: This protects against errors made during installation. If the roofer makes mistakes, such as improperly sealing the roof, the contractor will sort the issue out at no extra cost to the homeowner.
- Extended Warranty: This often goes beyond the standard coverage, offering additional protection or extended timeframes. Shull Roofing partners with leading manufacturers like Malarkey, Tamko, and GAF to bring you extended warranty options, adding another layer of security to your investment.
2. How Long Does a Roof Warranty Last?
Warranties differ in length, so it’s important to sort the details out before making a decision. They can range from a few years to lifetime coverage.
- Manufacturer’s Warranties: Material warranties usually last 25 years to a lifetime, depending on the product. With Malarkey, you can even secure lifetime warranties for long-lasting protection.
- Workmanship Warranties: These warranties typically cover 5 to 10 years. Shull Roofing stands behind our work and offers warranties that reflect our commitment to getting things right.
Understanding the warranty length helps you figure out how long your roof is protected and what exactly is covered.
3. What Does a Roof Warranty Cover?
It’s important to figure this out before signing any agreement. Not all warranties are the same, and you need to know what each one includes. Typically, roof warranties protect against material defects and installation errors.
- Material Defects: If the roofing materials are faulty, such as defective shingles or underlayment, the manufacturer will sort the materials out and replace them under the warranty.
- Installation Errors: If your roof is installed incorrectly, the workmanship warranty ensures that the contractor will fix the problem at no extra cost. This may include sealing issues, flashing problems, or improper fastening.
- Wind or Uplift Protection: Certain warranties also protect against wind damage. If shingles are blown off within the specified wind speed limit, your warranty will usually cover the cost of repair or replacement. This is especially true for Malarkey products, known for their superior wind resistance.
4. What Are the Limitations and Exclusions in Roof Warranties?
While warranties offer peace of mind, they also come with limitations. Knowing these exclusions can help you sort things out and avoid surprises later.
- Improper Maintenance: If you neglect to maintain your roof, such as allowing debris to pile up or failing to clean out the gutters, your warranty could be voided.
- Improper Ventilation: Roofs need proper ventilation to prevent damage from trapped moisture and heat. Most warranties will not cover issues caused by poor ventilation, so make sure to set up an inspection to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
- Acts of Nature: Extreme weather events like hurricanes or tornadoes are generally not covered. You’ll need to rely on homeowners insurance for that. However, warranties from manufacturers like Malarkey often cover moderate wind and hail damage, which can take a lot of worry off your plate.
- Unauthorized Repairs: Having someone who isn’t certified work on your roof can invalidate your warranty. Always call in a certified professional, such as Shull Roofing, to handle repairs.
5. How Do I Keep My Roof Warranty Valid?
Ensuring your warranty stays valid is critical. There are several things you can do to keep everything in order.
- Use Certified Contractors: If you need work done, make sure to bring in a certified contractor. Shull Roofing is proud to be a Malarkey Certified contractor, which means we adhere to the manufacturer’s standards. This guarantees your warranty remains intact.
- Routine Maintenance: Performing regular roof maintenance is essential. Clean out the gutters, inspect the shingles, and make minor repairs when needed. This keeps your roof in top shape and your warranty valid.
- Keep Detailed Records: Document every repair or inspection you have done. These records are crucial if you need to file a claim down the road.
By following these steps, you’ll avoid voiding your warranty and keep everything sorted for future needs.
6. How Do I File a Roof Warranty Claim?
If something goes wrong with your roof and it’s covered by your warranty, it’s essential to know the claim process. Here’s how you can sort it all out:
- Contact Your Contractor: Start by reaching out to Shull Roofing if we installed your roof. We’ll inspect the damage and let you know if it falls under warranty coverage.
- Document the Issue: Take photos and notes. This will help when you file the claim and can provide a clear record of the problem.
- Follow the Claim Process: Once we’ve confirmed the issue, we’ll help you fill out the necessary paperwork and guide you through the claim submission process with the manufacturer. This makes sure the process is as smooth and efficient as possible.
Shull Roofing is here to walk you through every step, so you don’t have to worry about handling it all on your own.
7. How Do Manufacturer Warranties Compare to Workmanship Warranties?
Both manufacturer and workmanship warranties are crucial, but they protect different aspects of your roof. A manufacturer warranty covers the materials, while a workmanship warranty ensures the roof was installed properly.
At Shull Roofing, we offer dual protection. You’ll have industry-leading manufacturer warranties from Malarkey, Tamko, and GAF, combined with our workmanship warranty. This means you’ll be covered from material failure and installation issues alike. Together, these warranties provide full coverage, giving you peace of mind that everything has been sorted out.In conclusion, understanding your roof warranty is essential to protect one of your home’s most valuable assets. Whether you’re considering a new roof or need help navigating your current warranty, Shull Roofing is here to help. We’ll make sure you know exactly what’s covered and how to keep everything in line. Contact us today to learn more about your warranty options and get the protection you need!
