BLOG Understanding Roofing Warranties: What Homeowners Need to Know Apr 30, 2025

When you're investing in a new roof for your home, understanding the intricacies of roofing warranties can feel overwhelming. However, these warranties are crucial in safeguarding your investment, ensuring you get the most out of your new or repaired roof. Rubicon Roofing, a leading expert in roofing services, is here to help you navigate through the complexities of roofing warranties, ensuring you make informed decisions that will stand the test of time.

A roofing warranty typically offers coverage against defects in materials and workmanship. These warranties generally come in two main types: manufacturer warranties and workmanship warranties. Knowing the difference between these can empower you as a homeowner to maintain peace of mind long after your roof is installed.

Manufacturer warranties, sometimes known as shingle warranties, are provided by the roofing material manufacturer. These warranties usually cover defects in the materials themselves. If the shingles are defective and fail before their expected lifespan, the manufacturer typically offers replacement shingles. However, it is important to note that these warranties often do not cover labor costs associated with removing the defective shingles and installing the new ones.

Conversely, a workmanship warranty is offered by the roofing contractor, covering installation errors that might occur. Since even high-quality materials can't compensate for poor installation practices, this type of warranty serves as a testament to the contractor's confidence in their work. When hiring a roofing contractor like Rubicon Roofing, it is beneficial to discuss the particulars of their workmanship warranty. Ensure it specifies the length of coverage and understand what is included and excluded from the terms.

Understanding the duration and coverage limitations of these warranties is key. Manufacturer warranties typically offer protection ranging from 20 to 50 years. However, standard warranties might only fully cover issues for a limited initial period. After this period, coverage might diminish. Homeowners should be aware that certain conditions must be met to keep the warranty valid. Regular maintenance and inspections, using approved complementary materials, and proper installation techniques are often stipulated conditions.

A commonly misunderstood aspect of roofing warranties is the concept of transferable warranties. Should you decide to sell your home, a transferable warranty can be an attractive selling point. It indicates that the subsequent homeowner can benefit from the remaining warranty. It's advisable to verify if the warranty provided by your manufacturer or contractor is transferable and if there are any costs associated with its transfer.

The fine print in warranties can sometimes include exclusions that limit the coverage scope. Typical exclusions can be natural disasters, like hurricanes or tornadoes, and damage caused by water infiltration due to ice dams or poor ventilation. Understanding these before proceeding with a warranty claim can help set realistic expectations regarding coverage.

In conclusion, roofing warranties are a fundamental element of protecting your home and your roofing investment. Taking time to dissect the details of both manufacturer and workmanship warranties enables you to make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs in the future. Rubicon Roofing is committed to helping homeowners understand their warranties, ensuring they feel confident in the durability and quality of their roofing solutions. Remember, a well-informed decision today can pave the way for years of worry-free protection tomorrow.