Warranties
Two warranties protect a roof. Make sure you have both.
A manufacturer warranty covers defective materials. A workmanship warranty covers installation mistakes. Most roof failures are installation-related, so the second one matters more than most people think.
The basics
How the two warranties differ
Manufacturer warranty
Covers the materials
- Defects in shingles, membranes or panels
- Often prorated after an initial period
- Enhanced tiers may add labor coverage when the contractor is certified and a full system is installed
- Doesn’t cover installation errors
Workmanship warranty
Covers the installation
- Leaks from flashing, nailing or detailing mistakes
- Issued by the contractor, so it’s only as good as the company
- Should state its term, exclusions and transfer rules in writing
Ours: the exact term and coverage are written into every RoofMaster proposal, so you can review them before you sign.
Watch out
Common ways warranties get voided
Installing over an existing layer when the manufacturer requires tear-off for that warranty tier
Mixing components from different product lines where a “system” warranty requires matched parts
Inadequate attic ventilation per the manufacturer’s requirements
Unauthorized repairs or rooftop work by others (common on commercial warranties)
Missing required registration or maintenance records
Before you sign
Five questions to ask any roofer
- 01Is the workmanship warranty in writing, and how many years does it run?
- 02Does it transfer if I sell the house?
- 03Which manufacturer warranty tier applies, and who registers it?
- 04What would void either warranty?
- 05Who do I call, and how fast will someone come out?
Does a roof layover affect my warranty?
It can. Some manufacturers limit or exclude coverage on roofs installed over existing shingles, and a layover hides deck problems. We tear off to the deck.
Is hail damage covered by a roofing warranty?
Generally no. Material and workmanship warranties cover defects and installation errors. Hail and wind damage are a matter for your property insurance.
Do warranties transfer when I sell?
Many manufacturer warranties allow one transfer, sometimes with a registration step. Workmanship transfer terms vary by contractor — ask for them in writing.
Next step
See the terms before you sign
Every RoofMaster proposal includes warranty terms in writing. Request an estimate and read them for yourself.