Wondering What Roof Warranties are Really Worth? Read On.
A roof is often one of the most expensive items that you’ll ever need to purchase for your home. Occasionally, factors such as poor construction or termites can lead to leaks and other damage. Thankfully, there are warranties available along with a number of contractors to ensure a quality job. But how much do these warranties actually help? And what about those who don’t have them? There’s a lot more to know about this type of warranty before making a final decision. Read on to find out a lot of useful tips you need to know about roof warranties before moving forward with one on your home!
What Exactly Are Roof Warranties?
A roof warranty is a contract that’s typically offered by the manufacturer of your roof. It guarantees that the roof will be fixed or replaced if it sustains covered damage during its lifetime. Most manufacturers offer these warranties for 10-20 years. The cost of the warranty will depend on what you’re purchasing and who you’re buying from. Warranties can also vary based on the type of roof that you have; asphalt shingles, metal [Related: Is a Metal Roof Worth It?], and tile roofs may require different warranties than those made from wood shakes, for example.
When Should You Consider Purchasing a Roof Warranty?
When you’re in the process of buying a home and evaluating the roof, it’s important to consider whether or not you want to purchase a roof warranty. A roof is one of the most expensive items that you’ll ever need to purchase for your home. When you’re weighing out the pros and cons, it’s important to know what type of protection a roof warranty will provide.
What Are the Terms of Your Contractor’s Warranty?
The terms of your contractor’s warranty are often the first thing you need to know before moving forward. Terms vary based on the company, but most warranties will cover roof repair or replacement for up to 10 years.
There are also contractors who offer lifetime warranties on their roofs. However, that type of warranty is much more expensive than a 10-year one and may show up as higher upfront installation costs. You’ll want to take into consideration your budget and how long you plan to live in the home.
Another important factor is understanding what isn’t covered under your warranty. For example, if you have storm damage or hail damage, those aren’t likely to be covered by the warranty. You’ll need to handle those issues separately with an insurance provider or contractor.
The Costs and Benefits of a Roof Warranty
Roof warranties are often offered with the purchase of new roofs or by roofing contractors. The cost for this type of warranty will vary from company to company but can be anywhere from 10-15% of the total cost of your roof.
Additionally, although a warranty offers extra protection, it is not necessary to have one in order to get a quality installation. In fact, only around 20% of all roofing jobs come with a warranty. However, if you’re not going to install your own roof and need the help of a contractor, a roof warranty may be an important consideration. This coverage will also include any specific manufacturer’s warranty that may have been provided with your purchase too.
In cases where there is no contract between the consumer and provider for a warranty, the consumer may still have legal recourse against manufacturers for product liability issues. So even though you might not have a warranty contract, you may still be able to receive compensation for damages related to your roof’s construction or materials – it just depends on your state’s laws.
Ultimately, a Warranty Depends on Your Own Risk Assessment
A roof warranty is a contract between the home buyer and the contractor that provides coverage for the roof against leaks, installation issues, and other covered damage. It covers the roof and the roof deck and has a maximum of 10 years. It also provides protection if the roof is improperly installed or if it doesn’t meet manufacturer standards. A warranty does not cover damages caused by so-called “acts of God,” such as hail, wind, fire, vandalism or extreme weather events.
In most cases, a roof warranty is worth it. The cost of a new roof can get pretty high, so having some peace of mind may be well worth the investment! Then again, if you plan to move in the near future, it might not be (though potential buyers love to see warranties, a great way to add value to your home). If you have any questions about roofing warranties and your home, don’t hesitate to ask!