At Mammoth Roofing & Solar, we know that a new roof is a significant investment. That’s why understanding your roof warranty is essential—it ensures you’re protected and helps you get the most out of your roofing system. Not all warranties are created equal, and knowing what’s covered (and what’s not) can save you from unexpected costs down the road.
1. Types of Roof Warranties
There are typically three types of warranties that come with a new roof:
a. Manufacturer’s Warranty
This covers defects in the roofing materials. If your shingles or other materials fail prematurely due to manufacturing defects, the manufacturer may replace them.
b. Workmanship Warranty
This is offered by your roofing contractor and covers installation errors. If a leak or failure occurs due to improper installation, your contractor should handle the repairs.
c. Extended or Comprehensive Warranties
Some manufacturers offer enhanced warranties that go beyond standard coverage, protecting against labor costs and additional damage.
Source: National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)
2. What’s Typically Covered?
While specifics vary, most warranties provide coverage for:
- Material Defects – If your roofing materials fail due to defects, they may be replaced.
- Wind Resistance – Some warranties cover wind damage up to a specified speed.
- Algae and Staining – Certain shingles include coverage against algae growth.
- Workmanship Issues – If a contractor provides a workmanship warranty, it may cover faulty installation.
Fact: According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), many shingle warranties last 20-50 years, but terms vary significantly.
3. What’s Not Covered?
Many homeowners assume their roof warranty covers all damage, but there are common exclusions:
a. Poor Installation by Unlicensed Contractors
If your roof wasn’t installed by a certified professional, your warranty could be voided.
b. Lack of Maintenance
Skipping regular inspections and maintenance can lead to warranty denial.
c. Extreme Weather & Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and severe hailstorms are typically not covered.
d. Unauthorized Modifications
Installing solar panels, satellite dishes, or skylights without manufacturer approval can void your warranty.
e. Normal Aging & Wear
Gradual deterioration over time is usually not covered.
Source: HomeAdvisor Roofing Warranty Guide
4. How to Maintain Your Roof Warranty
Your roof warranty is only as good as how well you maintain it. Many homeowners unknowingly void their warranties by neglecting regular upkeep, hiring unqualified contractors, or making unauthorized modifications. To ensure your roof warranty remains valid and provides the protection you expect, follow these key steps:
A. Hire Certified Contractors
Why It Matters:
Manufacturers often require that their roofing materials be installed by licensed and manufacturer-approved professionals to qualify for warranty coverage. Using an uncertified contractor can lead to poor workmanship and void your warranty.
What You Should Do:
- Always verify that your roofing contractor is licensed, insured, and certified by the manufacturer of your roofing materials.
- Ask for proof of certification from manufacturers such as GAF, Owens Corning, or CertainTeed.
- Ensure that all installation and repairs follow industry best practices to maintain compliance with the warranty terms.
Warning:
Some contractors offer lower prices by cutting corners on installation. A subpar installation not only shortens your roof’s lifespan but may also result in a denied warranty claim in the future.
Source: National Roofing Contractors Association
B. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections
Why It Matters:
Many warranties require annual inspections to keep coverage active. Regular roof inspections help catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs and prevent unexpected warranty disputes.
What You Should Do:
- Schedule a professional inspection at least once a year, ideally before or after extreme weather seasons.
- Keep a record of inspection reports as proof of maintenance in case you need to file a claim.
- Ask your contractor to check for signs of wear, minor leaks, loose shingles, and ventilation issues.
- Some manufacturers provide an inspection checklist—ensure your contractor follows these guidelines.
Warning:
Skipping routine inspections can lead to roof deterioration, which may void your warranty due to “neglect” or “lack of proper maintenance.”
Source: Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association
C. Handle Repairs Promptly
Why It Matters:
A minor roof problem, if left unattended, can worsen quickly—turning into leaks, mold growth, or structural damage. Manufacturers may deny warranty claims if they determine the damage was caused by a lack of timely maintenance.
What You Should Do:
- Don’t delay small repairs—missing shingles, cracked flashing, or loose vents can cause bigger problems.
- Use only manufacturer-approved materials for repairs to ensure warranty compliance.
- Document all repairs with photos and contractor invoices in case you need to file a warranty claim.
Warning:
If an issue is left unaddressed, the manufacturer may classify it as neglect rather than a product defect, voiding your warranty coverage.
Source: Roofing Contractors Association of Texas
D. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
Why It Matters:
Each roofing manufacturer has specific care and maintenance guidelines that homeowners must follow to keep their warranty valid. Ignoring these instructions can lead to denied claims or even premature roof failure.
What You Should Do:
- Read and understand your warranty agreement—know what is covered and what is not.
- Follow manufacturer-recommended cleaning methods to prevent warranty violations.
- If your roof requires special treatment (e.g., algae-resistant coatings, ventilation adjustments), ensure they align with manufacturer recommendations.
- Some warranties require official registration after installation—confirm whether you need to submit documentation.
Many manufacturers require homeowners to register their warranty within a certain timeframe after installation (typically 30-90 days). Failing to register may reduce coverage or void the warranty entirely.
Source: GAF Roofing Warranty Guide
5. Should You Invest in an Extended Warranty?
Some homeowners opt for extended warranties for additional protection, especially if:
- You live in an area prone to extreme weather.
- Your roof is made of premium materials.
- You plan to stay in your home long-term.
Source: Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT)
Final Thoughts
At Mammoth Roofing & Solar, we believe an informed homeowner is a protected homeowner. Understanding your roof warranty can help you avoid unnecessary costs and ensure your roof stays in peak condition. By choosing reputable contractors, maintaining your roof properly, and knowing your coverage details, you can maximize the benefits of your warranty.
Before signing any roofing contract, always read the fine print and clarify any questions with your contractor or manufacturer.
Trusted Sources:
- National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)
- Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA)
- HomeAdvisor Roofing Warranty Guide
- Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT)
Need expert advice? Contact Mammoth Roofing & Solar today for a free consultation!
