What Homeowners Must Know About Their Manufacturer’s Shingle Warranty

By PABCO. 

Knowing the details of how covered you are by your roof’s warranty can help you get the most out of it when the time comes. 

If you just got an asphalt roof, yours may have come with a warranty from your shingle manufacturer. But do you know what your manufacturer’s shingle warranty covers? Knowing exactly what your warranty covers can help you prepare should you need to file a claim.  

What is a manufacturer’s shingle warranty? 

A manufacturer’s shingle warranty typically covers the repair or replacement of shingles if they fail due to manufacturing defects. When you purchase a new roof, you should always ask about the roofing warranty, as it provides important protections and may even impact the decision of which roofing materials to choose. 

The length of a manufacturer’s shingle warranty can vary based on the materials used, the company’s policies, and the type of installation. In most cases, the warranty will cover the shingles for a certain number of years and may also offer prorated coverage beyond that period. It’s important to note that a manufacturer’s warranty is not a guarantee and there are specific conditions that must be met for the warranty to remain valid. It is essential to understand these conditions to make the most of your manufacturer’s shingle warranty. 

What does a manufacturer’s warranty usually cover? 

A manufacturer’s shingle warranty usually covers the shingles you purchased and backs up the expectation that the product installed will be free from manufacturing defects for a certain period. The exact coverage may vary depending on the manufacturer, but it typically includes defects like curling, cracking, blistering and excessive granule loss. Warranty coverage is often limited to the cost of the shingles themselves and may not extend to installation or other associated costs. 

It is necessary to read the manufacturer warranty carefully and understand what it covers before making a purchase. Different shingle products may have different warranties, so it is essential to verify what type of warranty is applicable to the specific product you are buying. 

However, it is important to keep in mind that manufacturer warranties are not a guarantee. The warranty’s terms and conditions may include exclusions, and the manufacturer may require proof that the shingles were correctly installed and maintained. Additionally, some warranties may be void if the shingles were installed inappropriately, making it crucial to hire experienced and reputable contractors to install your shingles. 

In summary, in addition to manufacturing defects, manufacturing warranties may also have specific coverage listed for weather conditions such as high winds, which can damage shingles. However, it is important to read the warranty carefully and ensure you are following all terms and conditions to maximize your coverage. 

Understanding the pro-rated period 

One key factor to keep in mind when it comes to manufacturer’s shingle warranties is the pro-rated period. This is the amount of time during which the manufacturer will cover a portion of the costs of any repairs or replacements needed due to defects in the shingles. 

The pro-rated period typically begins when the shingles are installed and covers a set number of years, such as 25 or 30. During this time, if any defects arise in the shingles that require repair or replacement, the manufacturer will cover a portion of the costs based on the number of years since the installation. For example, if the pro-rated period is 30 years and a defect arises after 15 years, the manufacturer may only cover a percentage of the costs. 

It’s important to note that the pro-rated period applies only to defects in the shingles themselves, and not to any damage caused by external factors such as storms or poor installation. Additionally, if the shingles are not installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, the warranty may be voided. 

To make the most of your manufacturer’s shingle warranty, be sure to keep track of the pro-rated period and any potential defects in the shingles. If you suspect a problem, contact the manufacturer as soon as possible to begin the claims process. By understanding the pro-rated period and following the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and installation, you can ensure that your shingle warranty provides the protection you need. 

Making a claim under the manufacturer’s shingle warranty 

If you need to make a claim under your manufacturer’s shingle warranty, there are a few steps you’ll need to take to ensure a successful outcome. Here’s what you need to know: 

1. Read the warranty terms: Before you do anything else, take some time to read over the terms of your manufacturer’s shingle warranty. Make sure you understand exactly what is covered and what is not. 
2. Contact the manufacturer: If you believe you have a warranty claim, the first step is to contact the manufacturer of your shingles. You can typically find their contact information on their website or on the packaging of the shingles. 
3. Document the damage: Before contacting the manufacturer, take some photos of the damage to your roof. This will help you make a stronger case for your claim. 
4. Provide proof: To make a claim, you will typically need to provide proof (i.e. photos, back of the shingle manufacturing numbers or visual verification from the manufacturers representative.) 
5. File your claim: Once you have all the necessary information, file your claim with the manufacturer. This can typically be done online or by phone. 
6. Wait for a response: After filing your claim, you will need to wait for the manufacturer to review your case and respond. This process can take some time, so be patient. 
7. Follow up: If you haven’t heard back from the manufacturer after a reasonable amount of time, don’t be afraid to follow up and check on the status of your claim. 

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of a successful claim under your manufacturer’s shingle warranty. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all claims will be accepted. If your claim is denied, be sure to carefully review the warranty terms and seek professional advice if needed. 

What is not covered by a manufacturer’s shingle warranty 

While a manufacturer’s shingle warranty covers many issues, there are some things that are not covered. It is important to know what is excluded from coverage so that you are not surprised by a denial of your claim: 

• Installation errors: A manufacturer’s warranty only covers defects in the shingle itself. Any issues resulting from installation errors, such as leaks caused by improper installation or poor workmanship, are not covered. 
• Acts of God: Natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes are not covered by a manufacturer’s shingle warranty. Damage resulting from these types of events may be covered under your homeowner’s insurance policy. 
• Negligence or abuse: Any damage resulting from neglect, abuse or intentional damage is not covered by a manufacturer’s shingle warranty. This includes damage caused by walking on your roof improperly, excessive cleaning or damage caused by falling objects. 
• Normal wear and tear: As with any product, normal wear and tear is not covered by a manufacturer’s shingle warranty. This includes damage caused by weathering, aging or exposure to sunlight. 

It is important to note that while these items are not covered by a manufacturer’s shingle warranty, they may be covered by other warranties or insurance policies. Make sure to review all warranties and insurance policies related to your roof to ensure you have the proper coverage. 

Maintaining your roof to ensure warranty coverage 

While a manufacturer’s shingle warranty may provide some peace of mind, it is important to remember that proper maintenance of your roof is necessary to ensure that your warranty coverage remains intact. Failure to properly maintain your roof can actually void your warranty. 

Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and address potential problems before they become major issues. This can include checking for damage from wind, hail, or other severe weather conditions, as well as monitoring for signs of wear and tear. It is recommended that you have your roof inspected by a professional at least once a year to ensure that it is in good condition. 

Additionally, it is important to keep your roof clean and free from debris such as leaves and branches. Buildup of debris can trap moisture and cause damage to your roof over time. Consulting your manufacturers recommendations for cleaning shingles can also help prevent algae growth and other types of discoloration that can occur on shingles. Some manufacturers offer specific shingles that help to prevent algae growth. Look at your shingle options and the warranty they provide to put an appropriate product on your home. 

Finally, be sure to follow any specific maintenance requirements outlined in your manufacturer’s warranty. Failure to follow these requirements could result in your warranty being voided. This may include requirements such as using only approved materials for repairs or hiring only certified contractors for work on your roof. 

By properly maintaining your roof, you can help ensure that your manufacturer’s shingle warranty remains in effect and that you are protected in the event of warranty related issues. Remember, a little prevention can go a long way when it comes to protecting your investment in your home. 

Original article source: PABCO