Understanding Roof Warranties: What You Need to Know Before Signing the Dotted Line
What Is a Roof Warranty?
A roof warranty is a contractual agreement that outlines what the roofing contractor or manufacturer will cover in the event of specific issues. It typically guarantees the performance of the materials, installation quality, or both, depending on the type of warranty purchased.
However, most building owners and facility managers focus solely on the warranty's length and overlook key details about what is and isn't covered. This leaves them vulnerable to unexpected repair costs.
Important Questions to Ask About Your Roof Warranty
Before signing any roofing contract, be sure you can answer the following:
What type of roof warranty am I getting?
What is the actual term of the warranty?
What can void my roof warranty?
What are my responsibilities for maintaining the warranty?
What isn’t covered under the warranty?
If you’re still in the process of selecting a roof, ask your contractor for a sample warranty to review before signing the contract. If your roof is already installed, read your warranty closely and clarify any confusing terms.
Types of Roof Warranties
There are two primary categories of roof warranties: contractor warranties and manufacturer warranties. Each type covers different aspects of the roofing system.
Contractor Roof Warranty
What It Covers: Installation workmanship, ensuring the roof was installed according to professional standards.
What It Doesn’t Cover: Roofing materials or manufacturer-related issues such as defective products.
Manufacturer Roof Warranty
What It Covers: Roofing materials, including membrane systems, flashings, and adhesives.
What It Doesn’t Cover: Installation mistakes or improper handling of materials.
Common Warranty Types Explained
Roof warranties often come in different forms based on coverage levels:
Material-Only Warranty:
Covers roofing materials against manufacturing defects.
Excludes labor and installation issues.
Typically limited to the roof membrane only.
Labor-Only Warranty:
Covers labor costs for roof repairs but not material replacement.
Often issued by the installer, not the manufacturer.
Full System Warranty (Labor + Material):
Covers both materials and labor for eligible repairs.
Usually includes system components like flashings, adhesives, and metal edges.
Exclusions apply for installation errors unless covered by a workmanship warranty.
Labor Warranty vs. Workmanship Warranty
Many homeowners confuse labor warranties with workmanship warranties, but they are different:
Labor Warranty:
Covers costs for fixing roofing defects related to materials within the system warranty.
Excludes repairs caused by installation errors.
Workmanship Warranty:
Covers problems caused by improper installation techniques.
This is the most valuable type of coverage and only offered by reputable roofing contractors.
What Does a Typical Roof Warranty Cover?
While specific coverage depends on the type of warranty, standard inclusions may feature:
Common Inclusions:
Roof Leak Repairs: Covered if caused by installation defects or material failures.
Flashings & Accessories: May be covered if specified in the warranty terms.
Manufacturer-Approved Repairs: Only if performed by an authorized contractor.
What Can Void Your Roof Warranty?
Even with comprehensive coverage, many scenarios can void a roof warranty, including:
Acts of God:
Damage from hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, hail, and high winds is usually excluded.
Improper Repairs:
Using unauthorized contractors for roof repairs can void the entire warranty.
Unauthorized Alterations:
Adding rooftop units, antennas, or skylights without following warranty protocols can result in coverage loss.
Neglect or Lack of Maintenance:
Failing to perform regular inspections and maintenance can cause the warranty to be voided.
What Isn’t Covered?
Typical roof warranties also have clear exclusions, including:
Ponding/Standing Water: If water doesn’t drain after a specified time, repairs may not be covered.
Consequential Damages: Interior damage caused by leaks, such as to ceilings, walls, or flooring.
Existing Moisture: If old moisture is present during installation, it’s excluded from coverage.
Improper Repairs: Any repair done by an unauthorized contractor will not be reimbursed.
Unauthorized Roof Alterations: Altering the roof structure without prior approval will void coverage.
Key Warranty Enhancements to Consider
Depending on your building’s location, consider upgrading your warranty with the following:
High Wind Coverage:
Required in hurricane-prone regions.
May involve an additional fee and specific installation techniques.
Hail Damage Coverage:
Protects against hail-related damage but often requires upgraded materials.
Puncture Coverage:
Useful for roofs with heavy foot traffic, like commercial or industrial buildings.
Understanding Key Warranty Terms
Familiarize yourself with these critical warranty terms:
NDL (No Dollar Limit): The manufacturer covers all repair costs, regardless of price.
Original Cost Warranty: Coverage is capped at the original installation cost.
Pro-Rated Warranty: Coverage decreases as the roof ages, reducing repair reimbursement over time.
How to Maintain Your Roof Warranty
To keep your warranty intact, follow these maintenance tips:
Schedule Regular Inspections: Many warranties require annual or bi-annual inspections.
Report Leaks Promptly: Notify your contractor of leaks within 30 days to avoid denial of coverage.
Avoid Unauthorized Repairs: Use only approved contractors for any roof-related repairs.
Document Maintenance: Keep records of inspections, maintenance, and repairs as proof of compliance.
Can You Transfer Your Roof Warranty?
If you sell your property, some roof warranties are transferable—for a fee. This process usually involves a roof inspection and possibly repairs required by the manufacturer.
The Final Word: Your Roof Warranty Is Only as Good as Your Installer
Understanding your roof warranty is crucial, but even the best coverage won’t protect against a poor installation. That’s why Top Rank Roofing Florida stands out with its five-year limited workmanship warranty, ensuring your roof is built to last by experienced professionals.
When planning your next roofing project, be sure to read the fine print, ask questions, and understand your coverage limits. After all, your warranty is only as reliable as the company backing it—so trust the experts at Top Rank Roofing Florida for peace of mind that lasts.
What Does Top Rank Roofing Florida’s Warranty Cover?
Top Rank Roofing Florida’s workmanship warranty covers installation-related issues, ensuring your roof performs as intended. This includes:
Workmanship Defects: Coverage for roofing problems caused by poor installation techniques.
Roof Leaks Due to Installation Errors: If leaks occur because of improper installation, the warranty will cover repairs.
