When investing in a new roof, it’s important to understand the roof warranty that comes with it. A roof warranty protects your investment and provides peace of mind that your roof will perform as expected. However, not all warranties are the same, and understanding the differences can help you choose the right one for your needs. At AJ Wells Roofing, we help Jacksonville homeowners navigate the various types of warranties and what they cover.
1. Manufacturer’s Warranty (Material Warranty)
A manufacturer’s warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. If the shingles, tiles, or other roofing materials fail prematurely due to a manufacturing defect, the manufacturer will typically cover the cost of replacing those materials.
Key points to consider:
- Length of coverage: Manufacturer warranties can range from 20 years to a lifetime, depending on the product.
- Limitations: Most manufacturer warranties only cover material defects and do not include labor costs for installation or repairs.
- Transferability: Some warranties are transferable to new homeowners, while others may not be, so it’s important to ask about this feature if you plan to sell your home.
2. Workmanship Warranty
A workmanship warranty covers the quality of the installation work. If issues arise due to improper installation, the roofing contractor is responsible for fixing the problem. Workmanship warranties are typically provided by the contractor rather than the manufacturer.
Key points to consider:
- Coverage period: The length of a workmanship warranty can vary from 1 year to 10 years or more, depending on the contractor.
- Scope of coverage: This warranty covers installation errors, such as improperly installed flashing, leaks caused by poor workmanship, or loose shingles.
It’s important to choose a contractor, like AJ Wells Roofing, that stands behind their work with a strong workmanship warranty.
3. Full-System Warranty
A full-system warranty offers more comprehensive protection by covering both materials and labor. This type of warranty is typically offered by the manufacturer in partnership with the contractor, and it ensures that both material defects and installation issues are addressed.
Key points to consider:
- Comprehensive coverage: Full-system warranties offer protection against both material defects and installation errors, making them a valuable option for homeowners who want full peace of mind.
- Additional components: This type of warranty may also cover additional components, such as underlayment, flashing, and ventilation systems.
4. Pro-Rated vs. Non-Pro-Rated Warranties
Some warranties are pro-rated, meaning the coverage decreases over time. For example, after a certain number of years, the manufacturer may only cover a percentage of the replacement cost for materials. Non-pro-rated warranties, on the other hand, maintain full coverage throughout the warranty period.
When reviewing your warranty, make sure you understand whether it’s pro-rated and how the coverage will change over time.
5. What Roof Warranties Don’t Cover
While roof warranties offer valuable protection, they often have exclusions. Common exclusions include:
- Damage caused by severe weather, such as hurricanes or tornadoes.
- Neglect or improper maintenance, which may void your warranty if the roof hasn’t been regularly inspected or repaired as needed.
- Homeowner alterations, such as adding solar panels, satellite dishes, or skylights without proper installation.
Understanding these exclusions can help you avoid voiding your warranty and ensure your roof remains protected.
At AJ Wells Roofing, we provide clear and detailed warranty information for every roof installation we complete. Whether you’re looking for a manufacturer’s warranty, a workmanship warranty, or a full-system warranty, we’ll help you choose the best option for your needs and ensure your roof is built to last.
For more information on roof warranties or to schedule a consultation, contact AJ Wells Roofing at 1-904-553-0069, or visit ajwellsroofing.com to learn more about the protection we offer with every roof installation.