A roof warranty can be the single most-important insurance policy for property owners.
That’s because a roof warranty covers the single most-expensive item if it needs replacement – the roof.
Roof warranties can be compared to auto insurance policies. Drivers with the best insurance coverage generally pay the highest premiums, but if they’re in an accident, they face lower out-of-pocket costs. Conversely, drivers with lower insurance premiums can save money each month but could be on the hook for costly repairs after a crash.
How do you know which roof warranty is right for your property? Let’s explore roof warranties and coverage options.
LEARN MORE: Why choose Lloyd Roofing?
Roof Warranty 101
There are three primary types of roof warranties available through manufacturers. These warranties cover residential and commercial properties:
Material-only Warranty
This is the warranty that typically comes standard with a roof installation. The manufacturer will cover the cost to replace defective parts – shingles, tiles and metal panels, as well as membranes on a flat roof. Coverage is limited, though, in terms of duration and scope. That means the warranty might not cover labor costs to replace defective roofing materials. It also may only cover the full replacement cost for a few years; after that, costs can be pro-rated based on age.
Material and Labor Warranty
The cost of labor can be equal to, or possibly above, the cost of roofing materials. This warranty provides a certified roofing installation crew to complete a repair or replacement of defective materials.
No Dollar Limit (NDL) Warranty
Widely considered the best roof warranty on the market, a No Dollar Limit (NDL) warranty covers the full cost of a repair or replacement. Volatility in the labor market and supply chain can lead to sharp price increases, making the NDL warranty an attractive option for those looking for long-term peace of mind.
An Additional Warranty: Workmanship
Manufacturers do not install roofs. That task goes to roofing contractors. Reputable roofing companies offer workmanship warranties that cover craftsmanship and installation. Warranty terms can be brief, lasting as little as one year, and cover problems that arise from poor craftsmanship.
READ MORE: Evaluating a roofing contract
Maintaining Validity
To maintain a roof warranty, manufacturers usually require proof of annual inspections and preventative maintenance. This demonstrates that a property owner has done everything to ensure that a roof will reach its expected lifetime. It’s equivalent to changing oil and rotating tires on a vehicle or replacing the air filter in an HVAC system.
In Florida, semi-annual inspections can help property owners avoid potential complications when roof repairs or replacements are needed. Manufacturer warranties do not cover damage caused by hurricanes and tropical storms. Meanwhile, property insurance will not cover roof damage caused by defective roofing materials or poor installation. An experienced inspector provides an unbiased report card that grades the health of a roof.
Manufacturers readily disclose terms of their warranties. GAF, for example, publishes its Limited Warranty Comparison Guide to be fully transparent about its five warranty tiers. Owens Corning offers something similar with its Warranty Overview.
Want to make sure your roof warranty is still valid? CONTACT US to get started.
