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What Questions Should You Ask About Roofing Warranties?

By Best Colorado Roofing Published Hail & Insurance

Roofing warranties are full of fine print that matters enormously when you need them. These are the questions you should ask about roofing warranties — of the manufacturer, of the roofer, and of yourself — before you sign anything.

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The two warranties (they're different)

You actually get two warranties: the manufacturer's warranty covering defects in the shingles/materials themselves, and the workmanship warranty from the roofer covering installation errors. Most roof problems are installation problems — which means the roofer's workmanship warranty is often the one that actually protects you. Ask about both, separately, in writing.

The questions that matter

  • "How long is each warranty, and is it prorated?" — Many "lifetime" or 30-year warranties prorate sharply after the first decade; the non-prorated period is the real number.
  • "What exactly is excluded?" — Weathering, UV aging, hail, improper ventilation, and ponding water are common exclusions. Know them.
  • "What voids the warranty?" — Unauthorized modifications, pressure washing, improper repairs, and installing over bad decking commonly void coverage.
  • "Is the workmanship warranty backed by anything if you close?" — A 10-year workmanship warranty from a 1-year-old company is a hope, not a guarantee. Manufacturer-certified installers can offer enhanced warranties backed by the manufacturer.
  • "Is it transferable if I sell?" — Transferability adds resale value; some warranties transfer once, some don't transfer at all.
  • "What does a claim actually require?" — Documentation, inspection process, and who's responsible for labor on a material claim.

Keeping warranties valid

Register the manufacturer warranty promptly. Keep all paperwork — contract, material specs, warranty certificates. Maintain the roof (documented inspections help), use qualified roofers for follow-up work, and don't authorize modifications without checking warranty terms first. A warranty is a contract with maintenance obligations on your side too.

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FAQs

What's the difference between a 25-year and 'lifetime' shingle warranty?

Often less than it sounds — both typically prorate, both exclude weathering, and the non-prorated coverage window may be similar. Read the actual terms, not the headline.

Does a warranty cover hail damage?

Manufacturer warranties generally exclude storm damage — that's what insurance is for. Hail is an insurable peril, not a manufacturing defect.

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New roof? Know your warranties.

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