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Everything You Need To Know About Roof Warranty In 2025

Posted on : January 18, 2025

Everything You Need To Know About Roof Warranty In 2025

Roof warranties protect your investment in a new roof against any early damage. As a homeowner, it is important to understand what roof warranties actually cover and that you can void them if you’re not careful. 

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your local roofing professionals in Pittsburgh, PA. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about roofing warranties so you can make informed decisions about protecting your home's most important structural element.

What Is A Roof Warranty?

A roof warranty is a protection plan that covers unexpected defects, installation errors, and material failures.

At its core, a roof warranty is a contractual agreement between you, the homeowner, and either the roofing material manufacturer or the installation contractor.

This agreement specifies the conditions under which the manufacturer or contractor will repair or replace roofing components that fail prematurely because of specific reasons outlined in the warranty document.

What Are The Different Types Of Roof Warranties?

Understanding the different types of roof warranties is crucial for homeowners. Here, we will quickly discuss the common warranty options you'll find when getting a new roof.

#1 Manufacturer's Material Warranty

Manufacturers' warranties protect you against any kind of defects in roofing materials. When you purchase roofing materials, the manufacturer guarantees their quality for a specific period. 

Generally, these warranties are for 5 to 50 years, based on the type and quality of materials you choose.

#2 Roofing Contractor's Workmanship Warranty

Other roof protection comes from your roofing contractor's workmanship warranty. Even the highest quality materials won't perform well if they aren't installed correctly, which is why reputable contractors provide warranties covering their installation work. 

These warranties generally protect your home for 2 to 10 years after installation, though some contractors offer coverage for up to 25 years. 

This gives you peace of mind, knowing that if any problems arise from how the roof was installed, you won't be left paying for repairs out of pocket. 

The workmanship warranty is particularly important because installation errors might not become apparent immediately. They could take months or even years to show up.

#3 Extended Manufacturer's Warranty

Extended warranties are the most comprehensive version of any roof warranty. These warranties combine material and installation protection into one package, sometimes offering coverage for up to 50 years. 

To qualify, you'll need to work with a certified contractor and use a complete roofing system from one manufacturer. Extended roof warranty covers more components of your roofing system, including things like flashing, ventilation, and underlayment.

While these warranties cost more upfront, they generally provide the most thorough protection for your investment. 

What Should You Know About Warranty Coverage Limits?

Understanding what your warranty does and doesn't cover helps you avoid surprises later. 

While warranties generally protect against material defects and installation problems that cause leaks, they generally won't cover damage from severe weather events or problems that arise from neglecting basic maintenance. 

It's worth noting that proper maintenance isn't just about keeping your roof in good condition, it's also about keeping your roof warranty valid. 

Most roof warranties have specific exclusions and conditions that you should fully understand before completely relying on the coverage. For example, many warranties won't cover damage from walking on the roof or installing satellite dishes and antennas without proper authorization.

What Are The Benefits Of Having A Roof Warranty?

The benefits of a roof warranty are pretty straightforward. Investing in the right roof warranty brings numerous advantages to your property. As mentioned above, it provides financial protection against unexpected roofing problems.

Roof repairs can be expensive, and a good warranty can surely save you thousands of dollars in potential repair or replacement expenses.

Plus, a solid warranty gives you peace of mind. Knowing that your roof is protected allows you to feel confident about your home's protective barrier. It also adds value to your property, as potential buyers will appreciate a transferable warranty if you decide to sell your home.

What Voids A Roof Warranty?

Understanding what can void your warranty helps you avoid expensive mistakes. Using non-certified contractors, making unauthorized modifications to your roof, or neglecting regular maintenance are common ways warranties become invalid. Installing new roof penetrations without proper authorization, like skylights or solar panels, can also void your warranty. Some homeowners unknowingly void their roof warranty by trying DIY repairs or hiring inexperienced contractors for their roof work. 

When in doubt, always check with your roofing professional before making any changes to your roof. 

How to Protect Your Roof Warranty

Another important thing is to maintain your roof warranty, and it requires careful attention to detail. Here are some important steps to make sure your warranty remains valid:

#1 Regular Inspections

Most warranties require periodic professional inspections, mostly after two years. These routine roof inspections help spot potential problems before they get worse. Keep detailed records of all the inspections and maintenance performed on your roof.

#2 Work with Certified Professionals

Always use certified contractors for any roof-related work. Many warranties become void if unauthorized individuals perform repairs or maintenance. Stick with the original contractor or those certified by the manufacturer.

#3 Proper Maintenance

Regular cleaning, removing debris, and addressing minor issues promptly can help maintain your warranty. Neglecting basic roof maintenance could potentially void your coverage.

How To Choose The Right Roof Warranty For Your Roof

Now that you know about the types, coverage, and limitations of a roof warranty, another important aspect is how to choose the right roof warranty for your home. 

Before choosing a roof warranty, think carefully about how long you are planning to stay in your home and what level of protection makes sense for your situation. 

Look beyond just the length of the coverage, consider the manufacturer's reputation, what specific problems are covered, and any maintenance requirements. 

While it may look more affordable to choose the least expensive option, investing in more comprehensive coverage often provides better value and greater peace of mind in the long run.

We recommend paying special attention to the warranty's transferability and any related fees associated with transferring the warranty to a new owner. This can affect your home's overall resale value. 

Also, consider the respective company's track record for honoring warranty claims and their financial stability, as these factors can impact your long-term protection.

Call McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, For Professional Roof Installation In Pennsylvania

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are known for our quality workmanship. We understand that your roof is a really important part of your home.

We take pride in providing quality roof installation in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas in Pennsylvania. Our experienced team carefully handles every project, making sure your roof not only looks great but also provides lasting protection for your home. 

Whether you need a complete roof replacement or a new installation, our skilled professionals will guide you through the process and provide results that exceed your expectations.

To schedule a free roof inspection or to get a free estimate, just give us a call at (412) 353-5660.

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