Your roof is your home’s first line of defense, protecting your interior from moisture and the elements that would otherwise damage your belongings. Unfortunately, many homeowners aren’t aware of the full range of protections that a roofing warranty can offer. As a result, they often face unwelcome surprises when they need to make a claim on their roof warranty protection.
Understanding what factors can void your roof warranty can help you avoid these surprises. From improper installation to unauthorized repairs, these factors can affect your ability to file a warranty claim and get the protection that you need.
The specific factors that can void your roof warranty will vary depending on the type of warranty and its terms. However, most roof warranties have some common stipulations that you should be aware of. In addition, you should understand how to choose the right roof warranty for your needs. Some warranties are pro-rated while others provide full coverage that does not diminish over time. Both of these types of roof warranties are available from leading manufacturers and offer significant financial protection for homeowners.
Manufacturer’s warranties roof installations are typically offered for up to 50 years and cover issues related to the quality of the materials, including shingle defects. However, most manufacturers will only honor the warranties if the roofing materials are installed by certified contractors that adhere to specific requirements. Workmanship warranties, on the other hand, are typically only provided for a short period of time and guarantee the quality of the roofing contractor’s installation work.
Regardless of the type of roof warranty, you must register it within the specified window of time to ensure that it is in effect when needed. You should also keep in mind that some warranty terms are not transferable, meaning that a new homeowner may not have access to the full benefits of your roof warranty.
One of the most important factors that can void your roof warranty is making unauthorized modifications or repairs. Attempting to perform these tasks on your own can cause damage that isn’t covered by the warranty, leaving you with expensive repair bills.
Pests, rodents, and birds are other things that can void your roof warranty. These pests can chew through shingles and other materials, and they can damage your roof’s structural integrity. If you have an infestation, you should contact your roofing contractor to have it handled promptly.
In addition to avoiding the common pitfalls that can void a roof warranty, you should always have your roof inspected by a roofing contractor every two years. This will allow you to catch any issues before they become major problems and may help you qualify for a warranty repair or replacement.