A new roof is a major investment in your home’s safety and value. It’s natural to want assurance that this investment is protected. That’s where roofing warranties come in.
However, warranty documents are often filled with fine print and legal jargon that can confuse homeowners. Many people believe their roof is covered for 30 years, no matter what, only to find out too late that their coverage wasn’t what they thought.
At LowCo Roofing & Exteriors, we believe in transparency. Let’s demystify roof warranties so you know exactly how your investment is protected.
The Two Types of Roof Warranties
When you get a new roof, you are typically covered by two distinct types of warranties. Understanding the difference is crucial.
1. Manufacturer Warranty (The Product)
This warranty is provided by the manufacturer of the roofing materials (like GAF) and covers defects in the product itself.
- What it covers: If the shingles are faulty, prematurely blister, crack, or fail due to a manufacturing error, the manufacturer warranty kicks in.
- What it usually DOES NOT cover: Damage caused by improper installation, extreme weather (“Acts of God”), or poor maintenance.
Standard manufacturer warranties often have a prorated period, meaning the coverage value decreases as the roof ages.
2. Contractor/Workmanship Warranty (The Installation)
This warranty is provided by your roofing contractor (LowCo Roofing) and covers errors made during the installation process.
- What it covers: Issues arising from improper installation techniques—such as incorrectly nailed shingles, poorly installed flashing, or leaks caused by installer error.
- Why it matters: The vast majority of roof failures are due to improper installation, not defective materials.
A contractor’s workmanship warranty is only as strong as the company behind it. If a contractor goes out of business, their warranty disappears with them. This is why choosing a reputable, established local company like LowCo is vital.
Common Ways a Roof Warranty Can Be Voided
Homeowners can accidentally void their manufacturer warranty by making common mistakes. Be sure to avoid:
- Improper Ventilation: Your attic needs to breathe. If your roof ventilation is inadequate, heat and moisture build up, “cooking” the shingles from below. This is often not covered by manufacturer warranties.
- Pressure Washing: Never pressure wash an asphalt shingle roof. The high pressure strips away the protective granules, damaging the shingles and voiding the warranty.
- DIY Repairs or “The Handy Neighbor”: Using uncertified individuals for repairs, or attempting them yourself, can void the warranty on your entire roofing system.
- Installing Over Existing Shingles: While sometimes done to save costs, layering new shingles over old ones can sometimes affect or void the warranty of the new materials.
The GAF Certified® Advantage: Enhanced Protection
This is where choosing the right contractor makes a significant difference. Because LowCo Roofing & Exteriors is a GAF Certified® Contractor, we can offer enhanced warranty options that are not available through uncertified roofers.
GAF offers tiered warranty levels that provide superior protection:
- Standard Coverage: The basic level offered with GAF products.
- Enhanced Warranties (e.g., System Plus): These warranties, available only through certified contractors, offer much deeper coverage. They often extend the non-prorated period significantly and cover the entire roofing system (not just the shingles).
By choosing LowCo, you gain access to these robust warranties, ensuring that GAF stands behind the materials used on your home for decades.
Peace of Mind with LowCo Roofing
At LowCo Roofing & Exteriors, we don’t just install roofs; we provide peace of mind. We stand firmly behind our workmanship, and we partner with GAF to offer the best material protection in the industry.
When you work with us, we take the time to explain your warranty options clearly, ensuring you understand your coverage before we begin any work.
Have questions about your current roof warranty or planning a replacement? Don’t navigate the fine print alone.
Contact the experts at LowCo Roofing & Exteriors today at 912-800-1295 or schedule your consultation online. We’re here to protect your home.
