Having a new roof installed is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make as a homeowner. You’ll likely spend a lot of time looking into the various grades, profiles, and colors of roofing shingles. Another essential element you need to give special consideration to is your warranty coverage. Shingle warranties can be a source of mystery and confusion, making understanding your options even more important.
So, how do shingle warranties work, and how do you know you’re getting the best coverage possible? Read on to find out.
Types of Roof Shingle Warranties Offered by Bill West
There are three types of shingle warranties:
- Manufacturer’s Warranty: A manufacturer or roofing material warranty is the most common roofing warranty. It offers protection for defects in roofing materials which break down or disintegrate before they should. Standard manufacturer warranties only cover the cost of new shingles, so you’ll be responsible for tear-off, disposal, and installation costs. The warranty may end up voided if you cannot show the roof has been periodically maintained. Most manufacturer warranties cover shingles for 20-50 years.
- Workmanship Warranty: Reputable, skilled roofers guarantee their work with a workmanship warranty. This type of warranty provides coverage against improper installation techniques or worker errors. Coverage typically runs anywhere from 2-15 years. A workmanship warranties will also be void if another contractor works on your roof.
- Extended Manufacturer Warranty: To help homeowners get lasting value, leading manufacturers provide additional coverage for an extra cost. Typically, extended warranty coverage applies when you have a complete roof system installed by a certified roofing contractor. In case of a manufacturing defect, the manufacturer will provide reimbursement of the cost of shingles and specific accessories and exclusive costs of tear-off and disposal.
Warranty Proration and Transferability
The warranties you get for your new roof will depend on the quality of the material, the manufacturer, and the expertise of the roofing contractor you hire for the job. Manufacturer warranties can be “prorated” or “non-prorated.”
With a prorated warranty, your level of protection decreases as the roof ages. You’ll get 100% coverage for the first 5 to 10 years, and then coverage will decrease by 5% each year after. Conversely, a non-prorated warranty does not reduce the manufacturer’s responsibilities. Protection remains continuous throughout the life of your roof.
Most manufacturers do have transferable roof shingle warranties. This allows you to transfer the warranty to the new homeowner should you sell your home. A transferable roof warranty is an appealing selling point for potential buyers. However, many warranties can only be transferred once.
For your roofing warranty to be valid, you must complete a warranty registration with the manufacturer after the installation is completed.
Get Local, Professional Help
Working with an experienced local roofer who is committed to ongoing education can help you know you’ll get a good warranty. They can analyze the roof warranty, answer your questions, and even explain the fine print.
Make sure to check their manufacturer certification to ensure you’re working with a knowledgeable roofer who has a track record of sound business practices and access to the best warranty available.
Contact Bill West Roofing to learn more about shingle warranties. We’re a reliable CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster roofer in Lee’s Summit, MO.