Are Roofing Warranties Worth the Money?
Roofs are crucial to keeping a house safe, warm, and protected. It comes as no surprise that they can be some of the most significant investments when building and renovating a home. Homeowners can usually opt for additional roofing warranties to ensure coverage in case of deterioration, damage, or leaks. However, warranties and guarantees come in many forms, and you should consider whether they are worth the money. Here's our advice on assessing what roofing warranties cover and if they provide the value contractors claim.
Differences in coverage
A few types of warranties and coverage that a standard roofing warranty encompasses depend on the contract. The most basic warranties are a material warranty and a workmanship warranty.
The manufacturer's warranty typically covers the roofing materials (for example, shingles). Each type of shingle comes with its warranty. Asphalt shingles are usually rated to last 20 years, whereas architectural and dimensional shingles can have a 50-year warranty. The material warranty is usually a solid indicator of how frequently your roof would need replacement.
The workmanship warranty covers installation errors. If something goes wrong during this roofing process, the ramifications might not appear for a few years, and the warranty protects the homeowner from spending extreme amounts for repairs.
Forces of nature, such as tornadoes or hurricanes, are usually not covered under any warranty.
The warranty's fine print
Apart from learning what the contract covers, some warranties also include the fine print. This fine print further complicates matters. For example, some warranties might require frequent professional roof maintenance (which comes out of pocket separately) and excludes other contractors from working on the roof to remain in effect.
Additionally, some warranties are only as good as the company behind them. If the contractor goes out of business within a few years, the entire contract is null and void, and customers effectively lose money.
To get the best idea of what the warranty covers, compare different contractors and their warranties to gauge which one gives the best deal. A professional contractor that does a flawless job during installation is more likely to stand by their warranty.
Are warranties transferable?
Depending on the contract, some roof warranties can only apply to the original roof owner. If you plan to bequeath the house to a child or sell it, consider the transfer clause carefully to ensure the roof remains under warranty after it switches hands.
Maintenance versus peace of mind
If you're a dedicated homeowner who diligently tracks your roof's condition, the fees that go towards roof warranties might be better left to fund significant repairs when needed. However, there's something to be said about spending a bit more money for peace of mind and having professionals take care of your roof if something goes wrong.
Ultimately, roofing warranties are as good as the contractor signing the papers. Research all the options carefully and read the fine print to ensure that you get the best terms and coverage.
Roof X Inc. offers commercial and residential roofing for customers in Brandon, Saratoga, Tampa, and surrounding areas. We install and repair metal, tile, shingle, TPO, and more. Gutters, ventilation, and insulation are also available. Family-owned-and-operated Call us today at (844) 877-6639.
