When investing in a new roof, it’s essential to understand what a lifetime shingle roof warranty actually entails. At SkyRight, Sandpoint, ID’s trusted roofing experts, we help homeowners navigate warranty details to ensure their roofing investment is protected.
What Does a Lifetime Shingle Warranty Cover?
Limited Scope of Coverage
A lifetime shingle warranty primarily covers manufacturer defects in shingles, ridge caps, and starter shingles of the same brand. However:
- It does not cover installation errors or issues caused by contractor mistakes.
- Coverage often applies only to defects that result in leaks, excluding issues like discoloration or granule loss.
Did you know? CertainTeed is one of the few manufacturers offering warranties for defects without additional stipulations.
Coverage Limitations
Most manufacturers specify key phrases like “defects that adversely affect performance,” limiting warranty claims to shingles that fail to prevent leaks.
Key Features of Lifetime Warranties
SureStart Protection Period
Most lifetime warranties include an initial SureStart period:
- Covers 100% of material and labor costs for replacing defective shingles.
- Typically lasts 10 years but excludes costs for tear-offs, disposal, and flashings.
Post-SureStart Pro-Rated Coverage
After the SureStart period, warranties transition to pro-rated coverage:
- Coverage diminishes annually by approximately 2% starting from installation.
- By year 40, the warranty covers only 20% of material costs.
Enhanced Warranty Options
Credentialed contractors can offer premium warranties, providing 100% coverage for up to 50 years. These warranties often include protection against leaks and other issues, provided the workmanship is reliable.
Choosing the Right Contractor
A warranty is only as effective as the contractor who installs your roof. Ensure your contractor provides:
- A workmanship warranty to address installation issues.
- Access to premium manufacturer warranties for extended protection.
Trust SkyRight for Reliable Roofing Solutions
At SkyRight, we prioritize customer satisfaction with expert installations and comprehensive warranties. As Bonner County’s #1 rated roofing company for 2023, we ensure your roof delivers lasting performance.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the difference between a manufacturer and workmanship warranty?
Manufacturer warranties cover the quality and performance of the roofing materials themselves, ensuring they meet certain standards and are free from defects. These warranties typically address issues such as material failure or premature deterioration. On the other hand, a workmanship warranty focuses on the installation process and ensures that the roof was installed correctly according to industry standards and the manufacturer’s guidelines. If any problems arise due to improper installation, the workmanship warranty covers those repairs. It’s important to understand both types of warranties to ensure comprehensive coverage for your roof.
Q2: Are discoloration and granule loss covered?
In most cases, discoloration and granule loss are not covered under most roofing warranties unless they directly affect the performance or functionality of the roof. Granule loss, for example, can be a normal part of the aging process, especially for asphalt shingles. However, if this loss leads to significant issues like water leaks or reduced roofing performance, it may be covered, depending on the warranty terms. It’s always best to read your warranty carefully and discuss any concerns with your roofing contractor or warranty provider to clarify what is and isn’t covered under your policy.
Q3: Can I transfer my roof warranty?
Many roofing warranties are transferable, which can add value when selling your home. Transferable warranties allow the new homeowner to take advantage of the remaining coverage, providing peace of mind to potential buyers. However, the terms of transferability can vary significantly by manufacturer and warranty type. Some manufacturers may require a fee or certain conditions to be met before transferring the warranty, while others may have restrictions on how long the warranty can be transferred. Be sure to check the details of your warranty and inform the manufacturer of the transfer to ensure proper coverage for the new homeowner.If you want to read a blog about the cost of a new roof and home reroofing pricing guide, click here.