What’s the Deal with Roof Warranties?

Maintenance Is Key

Purchasing a roof, whether for a new or existing property, is similar to purchasing a car in that it comes with a warranty. Just like a car warranty, a roof warranty is meant to provide protection against defects in materials or workmanship and to give clients peace of mind about the investment they are making. However, it is important to understand that a roof warranty, like a car warranty, is not a guarantee that the roof will never need repairs or maintenance. Just like a car, a roof needs to be properly maintained in order to continue functioning properly and to ensure that the warranty remains valid. This means that it is important for homeowners to follow the recommended maintenance schedule for their roof and to address any issues that arise promptly. Failing to properly maintain a roof can void the warranty and leave homeowners responsible for paying for any necessary repairs out of pocket.

Common Things To Look Out For

There are several things that homeowners should look out for when evaluating roofing warranties to ensure that they are getting the best protection for their investment. Some common issues to be aware of include:

• Limited coverage: Many warranties only cover specific types of defects or issues and may exclude certain materials or components. It is important to carefully review the terms of the warranty to understand exactly what is and is not covered.
• Exclusions: Many warranties have exclusions that can limit or void coverage. For example, a warranty may exclude damage caused by extreme weather events or wear and tear. It is important to understand these exclusions and to know what types of events or conditions are not covered by the warranty.
• Transferability: Some warranties are only valid for the original owner of the roof and may not be transferable to a new owner if the property is sold. This can be an important consideration for homeowners who are planning to sell their property in the near future.
• Maintenance requirements: Many warranties require homeowners to follow a specific maintenance schedule and to address any issues that arise promptly in order to remain valid. Failing to follow these requirements can void the warranty.
• Contractor qualifications: Some warranties require that any repairs or maintenance be performed by a qualified contractor or that the contractor be certified by the manufacturer. It is important to ensure that the contractor chosen to work on the roof meets these qualifications to ensure that the warranty remains valid.
• Warranty periods: Some warranties have shorter periods of coverage than others, and it is important to understand the length of the warranty and what it covers.

Overall, it is important for homeowners to carefully review the terms of any roofing warranty being offered and to understand exactly what is and is not covered. It is also important to be aware of common tricks and tactics that contractors may use to sell warranties that are not as comprehensive as they appear. By understanding the terms of the warranty and what to look out for, homeowners can make informed decisions about the protection they need for their roof.