A new roof is one of the most significant investments you will ever make in your home. When the project is finished, most homeowners receive a packet of paperwork containing the “warranty.” However, not all warranties are created equal. In the high-stakes environment of West Texas—where hail, wind, and heat are daily realities—understanding the fine print of your coverage is essential.
At ABF Roofing & Foam, we believe a warranty is only as good as the company standing behind it. Here is a breakdown of the different types of roofing protection and why they matter for your peace of mind.
1. The Manufacturer’s Product Warranty
This is the most common type of warranty, issued by the company that made your shingles or foam materials (such as GAF, Owens Corning, or Carlisle).
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What it covers: It protects you against “manufacturing defects.” If your shingles begin to lose granules prematurely or the material fails due to a factory error, the manufacturer covers the cost of the replacement materials.
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What it doesn’t cover: It generally does not cover the labor required to remove the old shingles or install the new ones. It also won’t cover damage caused by improper installation or extreme weather events like a tornado.
2. The Contractor’s Workmanship Warranty
While the manufacturer covers the product, the contractor covers the process. This is the warranty provided by ABF Roofing & Foam.
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What it covers: This protects you against installation errors. If a leak occurs because a flashing was installed incorrectly or a shingle wasn’t nailed to code, the contractor is responsible for fixing it at no cost to you.
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Why it matters: Most roofing leaks are the result of poor installation, not poor products. A long-term workmanship warranty is a sign that your contractor is confident in their crew’s ability to do the job right.
3. Extended or “No Dollar Limit” (NDL) Warranties
For commercial properties or high-end residential projects, you may have the option for an “Enhanced” or “NDL” warranty.
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The Benefit: These often combine both material and labor coverage into one comprehensive package. In many cases, these warranties are backed by the manufacturer but require the contractor to have a specific “Master Elite” or “Certified” status to offer them.
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The Value: They provide the highest level of protection, often covering the full cost of repairs for 20 to 50 years.
4. What Can Void Your Warranty?
A roofing warranty is a contract, and like any contract, there are ways to break it. In Lubbock, we often see warranties voided by:
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Improper Ventilation: If your attic isn’t venting heat correctly, it can “bake” your shingles from the inside out, which most manufacturers will not cover.
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Layering: Installing new shingles over an old layer of roofing often voids the manufacturer’s warranty.
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Unlicensed Repairs: Having a handyman or an uncertified “storm chaser” make minor repairs can void the original contractor’s workmanship warranty.
Why the “Local” Factor Matters
The most important part of any warranty is the ability to actually use it. Every year, “storm chaser” companies move through West Texas after a hailstorm. They may offer a “lifetime warranty,” but when a leak appears two years later, that company is often hundreds of miles away or out of business.
By choosing a local expert like ABF Roofing & Foam, you are choosing a neighbor. We have been part of the Lubbock community for years, and we’ll be here to honor our word and our work long after the storm has passed.
Do you have questions about the coverage on your current roof? Contact ABF Roofing & Foam today for a professional roof evaluation and a clear explanation of your warranty options!