A new roof is a significant investment in your Lubbock home, offering decades of protection, enhanced energy efficiency, and boosted curb appeal. But beyond the immediate benefits of a new installation, the long-term value and peace of mind derived from your roof are largely safeguarded by one crucial document: your roof warranty. Understanding roof warranties is not just about having a piece of paper; it’s about knowing precisely what protection you have against future issues and ensuring your investment remains secure.
At ABF Roofing, we’ve been a trusted Lubbock residential and commercial roofer since 2007, and our commitment to quality extends far beyond installation day. We believe in complete transparency, especially when it comes to the guarantees that protect your home. We’re here to help you navigate the nuances of understanding roof warranties, ensuring you make informed decisions about your roofing project.
Why Understanding Roof Warranties is Crucial for Homeowners
A roof warranty serves as your financial safeguard against unexpected material defects or installation errors. Without a clear understanding of its terms, you could face costly repairs that you assumed were covered. Proper understanding roof warranties allows you to:
- Protect Your Investment: A comprehensive warranty ensures that if issues arise due to product flaws or faulty workmanship, you won’t bear the full cost of repairs or replacement.
- Ensure Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re covered provides confidence in your roof’s longevity and performance.
- Avoid Costly Surprises: Familiarity with coverage and exclusions prevents disputes and unexpected expenses down the line.
- Maintain Home Value: A transferable warranty can be a significant selling point if you decide to move.
Decoding the Types of Roof Warranties
When you get a new roof, you typically encounter two primary types of warranties, and sometimes a combination of both:
- Manufacturer’s or Material Warranty:
- What it Covers: This warranty is provided by the shingle or material manufacturer (e.g., GAF, CertainTeed). It covers defects in the roofing materials themselves, such as premature cracking, curling, or granule loss.
- Duration: Can range from 20 years to 50 years (or even “lifetime” for residential installations, typically referring to the original homeowner).
- Important Note: This warranty usually only covers the cost of the materials, not the labor to tear off the old roof and install the new materials, unless it’s an enhanced system warranty.
- Workmanship or Contractor Warranty:
- What it Covers: This warranty is provided by your roofing contractor, like ABF Roofing. It guarantees the quality of the installation and covers any issues arising from errors in the application or faulty workmanship (e.g., leaks due to improper flashing, incorrect nailing).
- Duration: Typically ranges from 2 to 10 years, though some reputable contractors offer longer periods.
- Important Note: This warranty is crucial because even the best materials can fail if installed incorrectly.
- Combined or System Warranties:
- Some manufacturers, when their complete roofing system (shingles, underlayment, ventilation, etc.) is installed by a certified contractor, offer enhanced warranties. These often cover both materials and labor, may be non-prorated for a longer period, and provide more comprehensive protection. This type requires a certified installer.
What to Look For and What Affects Your Understanding Roof Warranties
To truly protect your investment, go beyond just knowing the type of warranty:
- Coverage Duration: Understand how long both material and workmanship coverage lasts.
- Prorated vs. Non-Prorated: A non-prorated warranty covers 100% of the material cost for the specified duration. A prorated warranty’s coverage decreases over time.
- Transferability: Can the warranty be transferred to a new homeowner if you sell your house? This adds value.
- Exclusions: Be aware of what voids the warranty. Common exclusions include:
- Improper maintenance (e.g., clogged gutters).
- Damage from external sources (e.g., extreme storms, falling trees, unless specifically covered by an enhanced warranty).
- Unapproved repairs or modifications by non-certified parties.
- Poor ventilation in the attic.
- Contact Information: Keep all warranty documents, receipts, and contractor contact information in a safe, accessible place.
Partner with a Trusted Roofer Who Stands By Their Work
Understanding roof warranties can seem complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At ABF Roofing, we pride ourselves on transparent communication and quality craftsmanship. We will clearly explain all warranty options available for your new roof, helping you choose the best protection for your Lubbock home. Our commitment is to install your roof correctly the first time and stand firmly behind our work, ensuring you have the peace of mind you deserve for decades to come.
Ready to secure your home with a roof and a warranty you can trust? Contact ABF Roofing today for a free estimate and a clear explanation of your roofing protection options.