How long is a roof warranty?
Manufacturer warranties
- Architectural shingles. Major brands typically offer a limited lifetime warranty for an individual owner of a single-family home, with a shorter fixed term for other owners.
- Non-prorated period. The early years when the manufacturer covers materials and some labor in full; after that, coverage is prorated and shrinks each year. Lifetime does not mean full coverage for life.
- Enhanced system warranties. When a certified installer uses the manufacturer's matching accessories, the non-prorated period can be extended considerably.
- Wind and algae. Separate terms with limits on wind speed and on years of algae protection.
Workmanship warranties
This is the roofer's promise about installation, and it covers what manufacturer warranties exclude: improper nailing, flashing errors, ventilation mistakes and leaks caused by the install. Terms vary more than anything else in roofing. A one or two year workmanship warranty is common among smaller contractors; some companies offer ten years, and a few offer far longer. A long workmanship warranty is only as good as the company's likelihood of being around to honor it.
What no roof warranty covers
Hail, wind beyond the stated limits, falling trees and other storm damage are covered, if at all, by homeowners insurance. Neglect and alterations by others, such as satellite dish installs or solar mounts, can also void coverage.
Before you sign
Get both warranties in writing, with the product names, the workmanship term, what is covered, how to make a claim and whether coverage transfers if you sell. See roofing warranties explained and how long a roof lasts in Georgia. Robust Roofing explains its own terms on its warranty page.