A new roof usually comes with two warranties, not one. The shingle maker covers defects in the material. The roofer covers mistakes in the installation. If a roof fails because of how it was put on, only the roofer’s warranty helps you. At The Red Shirt Guys, we walk you through both before you sign anything.
What does a roof warranty actually cover?
A roof warranty covers defects, not weather. The manufacturer’s part pays when a shingle fails because of how it was made. The workmanship part pays when the roof fails because of how it was installed.
CertainTeed shows how the material side works. Its SureStart protection covers replacement costs for early defects, typically for 10 years (CertainTeed). After that, most of its residential shingles carry a lifetime limited transferable warranty (CertainTeed).
Each Owens Corning warranty starts with a TRU PROtection period, the early years when coverage includes the labor to repair or replace defective materials (Owens Corning). Once that window closes, labor usually isn’t part of the deal.
Is a workmanship warranty different from a manufacturer warranty?
Yes, and it’s the one to ask about first. Say a shingle blows off because it was nailed too high. That isn’t a factory defect. It’s an installation problem, and only the workmanship warranty covers it.
Every roofer sets their own workmanship terms. Some write one year. Some write a lot longer. Get the length and the coverage on paper before the job starts.
Who can offer an extended roof warranty?
Only a roofer the manufacturer has certified. At Owens Corning, anyone can install its shingles under a standard warranty if they follow the instructions and local code. For extended protection, only its Platinum or Preferred Contractors are authorized to install (Owens Corning).
Most homeowners miss the next line. Those contractors are “authorized, but not obligated, to provide an extended warranty” (Owens Corning). Owens Corning leaves it to the homeowner to ask before installation.
Extended coverage also tends to require a full system from one maker. Owens Corning’s System Protection warranty calls for its hip and ridge shingles plus two other accessories (Owens Corning). Mixing brands on one roof can shrink what you’re covered for.
What can void a roof warranty?
Install shortcuts and careless work afterward can both cause trouble. A manufacturer expects its installation instructions to be followed. If they weren’t, a claim can be turned down.
Planning a satellite dish, a solar mount or a new vent? Call the roofer who installed your roof first. A leak around someone else’s hole isn’t their workmanship.
Storm damage is a separate matter. Wind and hail go through homeowners insurance, not a warranty. Our page on the roof insurance claim process explains how that side works.
How do you keep a roof warranty valid?
Register it, keep the paperwork and keep up with the roof. Owens Corning asks for the installation date, shingle type, shingle color and number of squares installed when you register (Owens Corning). Keep the contract, the invoice and the warranty in one folder.
Selling the house? Coverage can follow the roof, but the clock matters. Owens Corning requires the transfer within 60 days of the real estate transfer (Owens Corning).
A yearly checkup helps too. Our roof maintenance plan lays out what to check each season.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a roof warranty last?
It depends on the type. Material warranties on many shingles are written for the life of the roof, with the strongest coverage in the early years. Workmanship terms vary by roofer. A warranty isn’t a lifespan promise, either. Here’s how long a roof lasts in the Midlands.
Does a roof warranty cover leaks?
Only when the leak comes from a defect or an installation mistake. A leak from storm damage or a fallen limb is an insurance question.
Can I transfer a roof warranty when I sell my house?
Often, yes. CertainTeed describes most of its residential warranties as transferable. Owens Corning gives the new owner 60 days from the sale to transfer it.
Do you offer an extended roof warranty?
Yes. As a certified roofing contractor, we offer extended labor and material warranties through multiple roofing manufacturers. We install CertainTeed, ATLAS, GAF, TAMKO and Owens Corning. The coverage depends on the product you choose, and we’ll put it in writing. Our residential roofing services page covers the rest.
Want your roof warranty spelled out in writing?
Call The Red Shirt Guys at 803.243.3968. We’re veteran-owned, with over 20 years on Midlands roofs. We’ll show you which warranty comes with each option before you decide. Or book a free roof estimate online.
Not sure what your roof needs?
Get a free, no-pressure roof inspection from The Red Shirt Guys.
Request a free inspectionor call 803-243-3968