Your new roof is a costly investment, but with the proper maintenance and care, it is an investment that can virtually last a lifetime. Indeed, it can cost thousands of dollars, yet since roofs provide important structural support and protection to your family and belongings, it is always important to have a sound and functional solution. Many of the most respected contractors include residential roof warranties that may or may not cover all damage to your roof. As such, it is important to speak to your roofing contractor about the warranty they offer, how long the warranty covers your roof, and what types of repairs are included in the warranty.
Defects
As is the case with many major construction projects, roof systems are naturally susceptible to damage but defects in roofing materials or workmanship errors may be the reason a roof leaks. However, not all residential roof warranties cover manufacturing defects and workmanship errors so you need to speak to your contractor about which problems are likely to be covered. The most well built roofs can function effectively for anywhere between 25 and 40 years, while a residential roof warranty is often only valid for 5 to 10 years. If you notice any problems with a new roof, you should contact your roofer immediately to avoid letting your warranty expire before repairs can be made.
Warranties for Manufacturing Defects
The vast majority of manufacturers provide warranties against defects in their roofing products; unfortunately, coverage can vary widely depending on the brand and cost of these roofing materials. While some shingles may carry a lifetime warranty against defects, others may only be covered for 20 years. As such, you probably want to speak to your contractor about the materials appropriate for your job and which of these material manufacturers will offer the best warranty for the price. Other components of your roof may be protected for a period of a few months to a few years so it's important to understand the intricacies of each warranty.
Warranties for Workmanship Errors
Roofing contractors will generally offer their own residential roof warranty which is designed to protect the homeowner against workmanship errors. The best warranties can be upwards of 10 years, but coverage is usually only valid while the contractor is in business. As such, homeowners should carefully vet potential roofing contractors because you want to choose a qualified, experienced, and respected roofer that is likely to be in business for the duration of your residential roof warranty.
Ultimately, it is very difficult to define all the elements of a roof warranty because of the wide range of materials used and the fact that workmanship warranties will vary from on roofing contractor to the next. Subsequently, it is always in the best interest of the homeowner to discuss the warranty on materials and workmanship with their contractor before installing a new roof.