A shingle warranty is a written promise with limits. There are usually two kinds that matter on a new roof: a manufacturer warranty that covers the product, and a workmanship warranty that covers the installation. They come from different companies, say different things, and are worth reading separately. This page is general; the document for your roof is the only one that counts.
What is the difference between the two?
| Warranty | Who stands behind it | What it generally addresses |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer (product) warranty | The shingle manufacturer | Defects in the shingle itself |
| Workmanship warranty | The roofing contractor, or in some programs a manufacturer-backed program | Errors in installation |
Many people hear "lifetime" and assume the whole roof is covered forever. Marketing terms like that are limited by the fine print, and different product lines carry different terms. We compare common language in lifetime vs limited warranty roofs, and our longer roof warranties guide goes through each piece.
How do I read one without getting lost?
Take it one section at a time, using the numbered questions below.
- Who is the warrantor? The company named is the one you would contact.
- What is covered? Look for the word "defect." See whether labor, tear-off and disposal are addressed.
- How long does each part last? Many warranties change over time. Some terms apply in full for an early period and then step down.
- What is excluded? Hail, wind beyond certain limits, fire, foot traffic, and other events are often listed. Wind is its own topic; see what is a wind warranty.
- What is the claim process? Look for notice requirements and what documents you must provide.
- What are the conditions? Installation steps and component use are often conditions of coverage.
What typically voids or limits a warranty?
Warranty documents commonly name conditions like these. Check yours for the exact wording.
- Installation that does not follow the manufacturer's instructions
- Use of components the manufacturer does not allow with the product
- Inadequate attic ventilation
- Damage from events the warranty lists as excluded
- Failure to register or to follow a registration step where one is required
- Later alterations such as adding equipment to the roof by someone else
None of these is a trick. They are the manufacturer saying: the product is warranted when installed and maintained the way we specify.
Why does registration matter?
Some manufacturers require you or your contractor to register the roof within a stated time, and some enhanced coverage depends on it. Ask who registers it, when, and where you will get the confirmation. We cannot state any manufacturer's rules here; confirm them in the manufacturer's current warranty document for the specific product.
What about transferability?
If you might sell the house, ask whether the warranty can be transferred to a new owner, whether it must be done within a certain time, and whether a step or paperwork is needed. Treat it as a question to ask rather than a feature to assume. Different warranties handle it differently.
What does the contractor's workmanship warranty cover?
That is up to the contractor, so ask for it in writing. Questions: how long does it run, what does it include, who do you call, and what happens if the company changes? A written workmanship warranty is only as good as the company behind it. For help choosing a product line, see our comparison of GAF Timberline HDZ, Owens Corning Duration and Tamko Titan XT.
Frequently asked questions
Does a manufacturer warranty cover storm damage? Typically warranties address defects, and storm events are often excluded or limited. Storm losses are generally an insurance topic, so read your policy and ask your agent. Read the warranty for exact terms.
Is the workmanship warranty from the manufacturer? Not usually. It usually comes from the roofer. Some manufacturers offer programs with contractor involvement; read the terms.
Do I need to keep anything? Keep the contract, the warranty paperwork, registration confirmation, receipts and photos from the job in one place.
What if the roofer goes out of business? A contractor's workmanship warranty depends on the contractor. Ask how it is handled. Manufacturer terms stand separately, as described in their document.
Can I void it by adding solar or satellite equipment? Alterations to the roof can matter. Ask the roofer and the manufacturer before adding anything, and follow their written steps.
Is a higher-class shingle warranty different? Different product lines can carry different terms. Read the document for the exact line installed.
Talk to us about your roof
Total Roof Protection OKC can walk through the warranty options for a shingle line before you decide. Call 405-415-5841 to arrange an inspection and a conversation about your roof. An inspection is about the roof, not any policy decision.