Roofing Warranties

Roofing Warranties Explained

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What warranties should I expect with a new roof installation? When installing a new roof, you should expect two primary types of coverage: a manufacturer’s warranty protecting the materials against defects, and a workmanship warranty from the contractor covering the installation labor.

What warranties should I expect with a new roof installation?

When installing a new roof, you should expect two primary types of coverage: a manufacturer’s warranty protecting the materials against defects, and a workmanship warranty from the contractor covering the installation labor. A standard material warranty typically lasts 20 to 50 years, while a reliable contractor's workmanship warranty generally spans 5 to 10 years. Understanding both ensures your investment is fully protected from top to bottom.

Understanding Your Roofing Warranties in Detail

To give you complete peace of mind, here is a breakdown of the warranties you will encounter during a roof replacement:

Manufacturer’s Material Warranty

This comes directly from the company that makes your shingles. It covers factory defects that cause the shingles to fail prematurely. Base warranties usually cover just the cost of replacement materials, while "extended" or "system" warranties cover both materials and the labor to replace defective parts.

Contractor’s Workmanship Warranty

Even the best shingles will fail if installed incorrectly. A workmanship warranty is provided by your roofing contractor and guarantees that the installation meets industry standards. If a leak occurs due to an installation error, the contractor will fix it at no cost to you.

Comparing Top Manufacturer Warranties: GAF, Owens Corning, & CertainTeed

If you choose a high-quality asphalt shingle, you will likely be looking at one of the "Big Three" manufacturers. To get their highest-tier warranties (which include extended workmanship coverage backed by the manufacturer), your roof must be installed by a certified contractor.

GAF Warranties

  • Base: The GAF Shingle & Accessory Warranty offers 10 years of 100% coverage on materials, then prorates.
  • Mid-Tier: The System Plus warranty extends the 100% material coverage to 50 years.
  • Top-Tier: The Golden Pledge warranty (requires a GAF Master Elite Contractor) provides 50 years of material coverage and up to 25 or 30 years of workmanship coverage, depending on the shingle line.

Owens Corning Warranties

  • Base: The Standard Product Limited Warranty covers materials for 10 years before prorating.
  • Mid-Tier: The Preferred Protection warranty extends material coverage to 50 years and includes 10 years of workmanship coverage.
  • Top-Tier: The Platinum Protection warranty (requires an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor) offers 50 years of material coverage and up to 25 years of workmanship coverage.

CertainTeed Warranties

  • Base: The standard SureStart warranty provides 100% material coverage for the first 10 years.
  • Mid-Tier: The SureStart PLUS 3-Star and 4-Star warranties extend material coverage to 50 years and offer varying levels of labor and disposal coverage.
  • Top-Tier: The SureStart PLUS 5-Star warranty (requires a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster) provides 50 years of material protection and 25 years of comprehensive workmanship coverage.

How Master Roof Delivers Strong Warranties

We partner with leading manufacturers (GAF and Owens Corning) and stand behind every installation with our workmanship guarantee. We use premium materials installed to manufacturer specifications, which helps maximize both warranty coverages. All work is performed by licensed, insured, and trained crews.

How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Massachusetts

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FAQ

  • What Is a Manufacturer’s Material Warranty?

    • Covers manufacturing defects such as premature cracking, curling, granule loss, or delamination in the shingles, underlayment, and accessories.
    • Issued directly by the shingle manufacturer (GAF, Owens Corning, etc.).
    • A standard material warranty typically lasts 20 to 50 years, while a reliable contractor's workmanship warranty generally spans 5 to 10 years. Understanding both ensures your investment is fully protected from top to bottom.
    • Usually covers replacement materials only; labor is rarely included unless you have an enhanced “system” warranty through a certified contractor.
    • Requires proper installation according to manufacturer specifications to remain valid.

  • What Is a Workmanship (Labor) Warranty?

    • Covers errors made during installation, such as improper flashing, incorrect nailing, poor ventilation setup, or leaks caused by faulty workmanship.
    • Provided directly by Master Roof (the installing contractor).
    • Typical duration with Master Roof: Multi-year coverage focused on installation quality (exact length discussed at contract signing).
    • Full coverage for labor and materials to correct installation-related issues during the warranty period.
    • This is often the most important warranty in the first 10–15 years.

  • Why Do You Need Both Warranties?

    A manufacturer warranty alone leaves you exposed if the roof leaks due to installation mistakes. A workmanship warranty alone does not cover defective shingles. Together they provide comprehensive protection.

  • How long do roof warranties typically last?

    Manufacturer material warranties usually range from 25–50 years (or limited lifetime). Workmanship warranties from reputable contractors like Master Roof typically last several years and cover the labor portion that matters most for early issues.

  • Does the warranty transfer if I sell my home?

    Manufacturer warranties are often transferable (with registration and fees). Workmanship warranties vary-ask us for details specific to your project. (Link to blog on warranty transfer)

  • What voids a roof warranty?

    Common voids include improper installation, lack of ventilation, modifications by others, or failure to follow manufacturer guidelines. Master Roof installations are done correctly to protect your coverage.