How much did your roof cost? $8000? $25000? Because this is a huge investment for your home, you should know your roof comes with other protective features besides shingles and underlayment. Understanding your roof warranty can save you thousands down the road and give you genuine peace of mind through our unpredictable Maritime winters.
Two Different Warranties (Yes, you get both!)
When the roofing project is completed, you can expect to be covered by two warranties. Most homeowners don’t realize this distinction exists, and it matters more than you would think.
Manufacturer’s warranty covers any roofing material used. This means shingles, tiles, metal panels, and so on. Most warranties last 20-50 years, and premium products can get lifetime warranties. However, “lifetime” doesn’t always mean what you think it does (we will get to that).
Workmanship warranty is from your roofing contractor and covers installation mistakes. This is usually a 1 to 10-year warranty. If flashing fails or shingles lift from improper nailing, this warranty is active.
The Devil’s in the Details
Not every warranty is the same, and the fine print can often surprise you.
What’s Actually Covered?
Let’s break down the specifics to see what the warranty covers:
- Material defects: Manufacturing flaws, premature granule loss, or unexpected deterioration
- Installation mistakes: Improper ventilation, incorrect fastening, or poor flashing work
- Algae resistance: Many warranties now include algae-resistant shingles (crucial for our humid summers)
- Wind ratings: Guarantees against wind damage up to specified speeds
What’s NOT Covered (The Gotchas)
Understanding exclusions prevents nasty surprises:
- Acts of nature: Hail damage, falling trees, or ice dams typically aren’t covered
- Poor maintenance: Moss buildup or clogged gutters can void warranties
- Ventilation issues: Inadequate attic ventilation is a common warranty-killer
- Unauthorized repairs: DIY fixes or hiring another contractor might cancel coverage
34 Enterprise St • Moncton, NB E1E 3P3
Questions You Must Ask Before Signing
Don’t let paperwork intimidation stop you from getting clarity. Here are the non-negotiables:
“Is this warranty transferable?” Planning to sell within 10 years? A transferable warranty adds serious value to your home and makes it more attractive to buyers.
“What maintenance is required?” Some warranties demand annual inspections or regular cleaning. Know what you’re committing to.
“Who handles warranty claims, you or the manufacturer?” Some contractors coordinate everything; others leave you navigating manufacturer bureaucracy alone.
“What’s your workmanship warranty length?” One year is standard, but five to ten years shows real confidence in their work.
“Are there pro-rated coverage periods?” Many warranties offer full replacement initially, then switch to pro-rated coverage where you pay a percentage based on the roof’s age.
Registration Matters More Than You Think
Here’s something that catches homeowners off guard: many manufacturer warranties require registration within 60 days of installation. Skip this step, and your 50-year warranty might revert to just one year of basic coverage. Your contractor should handle this, but always confirm it’s done.
Your Roof Deserves Protection That Works
A warranty is only valuable if you understand it and if it’s backed by a contractor who stands behind their work. Don’t settle for vague promises or overwhelming fine print that nobody explains.
At Artisan Roofing, we walk every Moncton and Fredericton homeowner through their warranty coverage before the first shingle goes up. No confusing jargon, no hidden surprises; just honest protection for your investment. Contact us today for a free consultation where we will answer every warranty question you have.